SAD 53 directors begin regionalization process
Bangor Daily News, June 15, 2007

(excerpts) "We need to talk to a couple of different districts," Chairman Robert Downs said. When board members suggested considering SAD 3 (Unity area), SAD 54 (Skowhegan area) and SAD 49 (Fairfield), Downs said they needed to look beyond just the nearest geographical districts.

"We need to talk as well to a highly efficient, top quality district," he said. "What do we have to lose?"

Director Mark LaGross added, "We are still going to be in these towns, in these schools. I think it would be in our best interest to look at efficient, strong districts."

...

The board then turned the discussion to what a committee would ask when meeting with another district.

"I would want to know everything about the process," Downs said. "What is the governing structure? How will decisions be made? Will we get fair treatment? We want to be a partner and be respected for what we bring to the table."

"That's my fear," Director Ron Bessey said. "I don't want to lose the local element which is what makes us good."

Warsaw Middle School principal Sandy Nevens agreed.

"I believe we have a lot of good going on in this district. We need to make sure there is a commonality of philosophy and that there will be a democratic representation. We don't want to be the flea on the dog."

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