September 5 Superintendent's Blog Post

What an incredible first week of school it has been across Gorham! Our buildings are once again alive with the energy of students, staff, and families—it truly feels like the Ram Family is back together. Open Houses were bustling, buses are rolling, classrooms are buzzing, and our hallways are filled with laughter, learning, and connection. There really is nothing quite like the start of a new school year, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome everyone back for what promises to be another fantastic year in Gorham.

We have so much to share—take a look at some highlights from the first seven days below, and then buckle up for some important updates. Here we go!

THE IMPORTANCE OF SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Consistent school attendance is not just about being present—it’s a cornerstone of academic achievement, social growth, and future success. Even missing just 10% of school days—roughly 18 days a year—can significantly hinder learning, making students far more likely to fall behind in core subjects. Attendance closely correlates with proficiency: many students are 1.7 times more likely to excel in reading and math when they attend regularly, and strong attendance has a significant impact on high school graduation rates. By the 9th grade, attendance emerges as one of the most powerful predictors of whether a student will graduate on time, underscoring the high stakes associated with school attendance.

In Gorham, our schools are already performing above state averages—but regular attendance is key to sustaining those achievements and nurturing thriving learners and futures. Even in Gorham, our chronic absenteeism rates are higher than what we would like to see.  Here are our rates from last year by school:

Great Falls - 9.45% Chronic absenteeism last year = 40 students missing 18+ days of school.

Narragansett - 6.91% Chronic absenteeism last year = 27 students missing 18+ days of school.

Village - 7.36% Chronic absenteeism last year = 29 students missing 18+ days of school.

Gorham Middle School - 17.91% Chronic absenteeism last year = 128 students missing 18+ days of school.

Gorham High School - 15.77% Chronic absenteeism last year = 127 students missing 18+ days of school.

The Gorham School District stands in the top 20% in Maine for combined proficiency, with students scoring 91% in reading and 59% in math, well above statewide averages. A strong 96% graduation rate further demonstrates our district’s success. However, every missed day chips away at these outcomes. With around 2,800 students across five schools, the entire Ram family must be engaged daily to preserve our high standards and collective momentum. Encouraging regular attendance is not just about showing up—it’s about community, commitment, connection, and a brighter future for every student in Gorham.

Parents play a crucial role in this effort. Families can help by establishing consistent routines—such as regular bedtimes and morning schedules—to make getting to school smoother. Scheduling appointments outside of school hours whenever possible reduces unnecessary absences. Communicating early with schools about challenges (such as transportation or health issues) allows us to provide timely support. And just as importantly, parents can reinforce a positive mindset by talking with their children about the value of showing up every day—not just for academics, but for friendships, growth, and future opportunities. Together, these small, everyday steps make a significant difference in ensuring that all Gorham students are present, prepared, and ready to succeed.  Thank you!

CELL PHONES IN THE GORHAM SCHOOLS

Recently, cell phones have been a hot topic of conversation around parents and public schools.  The Gorham Schools have worked diligently over the past several years to develop procedures and guidelines regarding the use of cell phones in our schools.  While we do not take the approach of banning cell phones in our schools, we do take a common-sense approach, stating that cell phones are distracting to student learning and therefore shouldn't be used during class times unless directed to do so by a teacher.

This past spring, Maine's legislature passed a bill that requires school departments to create a specific policy regarding the use of cell phones in our schools.  While the development of this policy is required, the legislature has left it open to each local school department to determine its contents.  

As I mentioned a moment ago, the Gorham Schools have had long-standing student handbook language regarding cell phones and smart watches, etc.  Our intent is to continue the same processes/procedures we have been using and to move these guidelines into a more formal policy as required by the new statute.  

For reference, here are our current guidelines by grade level.  Please reach out to your school's principal with any questions or concerns you may have.

Elementary School Guidelines from Student Handbooks:

Students are strongly discouraged from bringing personal electronic devices such as cell phones, ipods, MP3 players, iPads, Fitbits, Smartwatches, and gaming systems to school. 

All personal electronic devices must be turned off and put away so that they are not visible, unless it is determined to be essential for the student’s health or safety by administrators. 

Students can not use these devices during the school day. Please do not text, message, or call your student on their electronic device during school hours. Parents and guardians may reach our office staff at any time. If you have an urgent need that cannot wait until after school hours please call the school directly. 

Our Elementary Schools and the School Department are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged cell phones or any other electronics brought to school. Students are expected to follow this policy responsibly as repeated violations may result in disciplinary action. Gorham schools reserve the right to confiscate and search a student’s privately owned computer/device if there is reasonable suspicion that the student has violated school committee policies, administrative procedures, or school rules, or engaged in other misconduct while using the computer/device to disrupt the peace and usefulness of the school.

Gorham Middle School Guidelines from Student Handbook:

CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

To keep our school a place where everyone can focus on learning, personal electronic devices like phones, tablets, and smartwatches are not allowed to be used during the school day. This rule applies from 7:35 AM to 2:20 PM on Gorham School District buses and at any school-sponsored activities. If you need to reach a parent or guardian, you can use a phone in the main office or student support to do so.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU USE YOUR PHONE:

If you are caught using your phone or other electronic device without permission, your device will be taken. It will be turned into the main office, and you can get it back at the end of the day. For repeat offenders, a family member will need to come to the school to pick up the device.

IF YOU REFUSE TO GIVE UP THE DEVICE:

If you refuse to hand over your device, the office will be called. An administrator will then step in to address the situation. At this point, refusing to give up your device will be considered defiance, not just a cell phone issue. Teachers and staff at GMS are not liable for any damages to a student’s device. Following these rules helps everyone stay focused and makes our school a better place

to learn!

AIRPODS / HEADPHONES: 

Articles of clothing or devices, such as headphones or AirPods, that prevent students from hearing or seeing while they are within the school. Headphones may be allowed within the classroom with teacher permission only.

Gorham High School Guidelines from Student Handbook:

Electronic Devices

The Gorham High School staff is concerned about the effects of mobile phone usage on students’ mental and physical well-being and the disruption that phones pose to the learning environment in a classroom setting. We seek to support our students in navigating our world where technology pervades nearly every aspect of life and where knowing how to use technology is foundational to future success. 

With that said, we believe it is imperative to teach students about appropriate and healthy boundaries with regards to personal mobile devices, smart phones, and other forms of technology, including social media. While we want our students to be able to use technology effectively, we also want our students to be able to foster positive relationships with peers without the intrusion of technology. Finally, we wish to avoid disruptions to learning by limiting phone use in academic classrooms to only those times when phones are needed as the proper tool deemed necessary by a classroom teacher.

Teachers at Gorham High School agree that all students must place their mobile phones in a “phone hotel” or other appropriate container when they enter a classroom setting. Students may retrieve their phones from the “phone hotel” when a teacher deems it necessary or when class is over. Students may use phones before school, during lunch, during passing time, and after school without restriction as long as they refrain from the following conduct:

• Use of a phone during class when it is not permitted by a teacher;

• Taking pictures in locker rooms, bathrooms, etc.;

• Taking any picture/video of another person for the purpose of ridiculing the other person (falling asleep, attire, chewing food with mouth open, etc.);

• Use of a phone or any device to cheat; or

• Use, whether in or out of school, of a phone or any other device to harass another member of the Gorham school community.

Any student who fails to comply with the above-stated policy will be subject to a school-based consequence, including a detention, Friday detention, or in the case of egregious or repeated infractions, suspensions.

Students should also be aware that, per Gorham Schools Policy IJNDB STUDENT COMPUTER/DEVICE AND INTERNET USE, administration has the right to confiscate and search a student’s privately owned computer or device if there is reasonable suspicion that the student has violated school committee policies, administrative procedures, school rules, or engaged in other misconduct while using a computer or device to disrupt the peace and usefulness of the school.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES

This past week, we had to place three of our schools in “Secure” status—a reminder of the importance of our emergency protocols. Thanks to our well-trained staff, strong partnerships with local emergency responders, and clear communication systems, everything went as smoothly as possible.

In the Gorham Schools, the safety and well-being of students is always our top priority. We follow evidence-based practices, including ALICE Training®, the “I Love U Guys” Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol, and the Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines, while also working closely with the FBI and local law enforcement to ensure we utilize the latest best practices.

Understanding Our Emergency Terms:

We use consistent language across all schools so students, staff and families know what to expect. These Standard Language Protocols (SLP's) were developed by the "I Love You Guys Foundation" and are used in schools across the country. Please see the poster below that shows each term with explanations and examples of when they might be used:

• Hold – Used when we need hallways clear (e.g., medical emergency).

• Secure – A potential threat outside the school; operations continue indoors.

• Lockdown – A potential threat inside; students and staff follow A.L.I.C.E. safety options.

• Evacuate – Everyone leaves the building (e.g., fire alarm, gas smell).

• Shelter – Used for severe weather, chemical spills, or other hazards.

Our staff train regularly, and students also learn these routines in age-appropriate ways. While many details remain confidential for safety reasons, a public version of our Emergency Management Plan is available on our website and HERE for your reference.

Communication with Families

If an emergency occurs, we will keep you informed:

• Individual student injury – Parents/guardians receive a personal phone call.

• Emergency with no direct threat – Families receive email updates until the situation is resolved.

• Emergency with direct threat – Families receive phone calls, texts, and emails with clear instructions.

If you ever receive all three types of messages at once, please know this is when we need you to pay the closest attention and follow directions as communicated. The most important request: do not rush to the school. This can interfere with emergency responders and, in many cases, your child will already have been moved to a safe location.

Final Note

We hope these protocols will never be needed, but please be assured: we are prepared. We will always act swiftly and communicate clearly to protect the safety and well-being of every student in our care. If you have questions or would like to share feedback or comments, please contact your building principal. Thank you for entrusting the safety of your children with us!

UPCOMING SCHOOL-RELATED REFERENDUM QUESTION ON NOVEMBER 4 LOCAL BALLOTS

First and most importantly: this vote will NOT ask Gorham taxpayers for any new money. Instead, the question on the November 4 ballot is about re-allocating a portion of funds already approved by voters in November 2024.

Background

In November 2024, Gorham voters approved a bond of $9.49M (plus estimated interest of $3.19M) to fund two projects:

1. The Gorham High School cafeteria and modular classroom expansion

2. The Narragansett HVAC project

The HVAC project is nearly complete, and the GHS expansion is underway. Designs are complete, bids have been approved, and costs are firmly established. Due to favorable market shifts and design adjustments, these projects are now expected to come in approximately $2.5 million under budget.

Why the Savings?

• Construction prices have leveled off.

• Redesigning the modular expansion allowed us to build locally rather than off-site, avoiding significant transportation costs.

What’s Next?

Although we are fortunate to have these savings, our schools still have pressing facility needs identified in the Lavalle Facilities Study, CHA report, and our Updated Ten-Year Capital Plan. We are proposing to re-allocate the $2.5M to complete three additional priority projects:

1. GHS Track & Field Replacement – estimated at $625,000

2. Narragansett ADA and Sprinkler Updates – estimated at $1,100,000

3. Village School Paving Overlay, Connector Road Construction, and Great Falls Fire Lane Repair – estimated at $800,000

This approach addresses nearly all immediate items on our capital plan without asking taxpayers for more money. The only remaining project—Narragansett’s maintenance building—would be deferred to a future plan.

The Vote

On September 2, the Town Council voted unanimously (7–0) to place this re-allocation question on the November 4, 2025 ballot.

• A YES vote allows us to move forward with these projects as early as spring 2026.

• A NO vote means we would need to return in November, 2026 to request a new bond for these same needs, at potentially higher costs & with potentially larger projects due to continuing deterioration of existing facilities conditions.

Over the coming weeks, I will share more details about these projects and their implications for our students and community. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions: heather.perry@gorhamschools.org

Thank you for your continued support of Gorham Schools and the students we serve!

GORHAM STATE OF SCHOOLS REPORT READY TO VIEW!

I often get asked the question - how do we measure success in the Gorham Schools? At the end of the day, my simplistic answer has always been and will continue to be that we measure our success by making sure that every senior who walks across that stage to get their diploma has every choice THEY want to make available to them. That we have "Prepared and Inspired" each student for their own successful futures.

The next question is inevitably - how do you measure that? That is where our annual "State of the Schools" report comes in. Each year, our schools gather demographic data, achievement data, metrics for success data, and more to determine - how are we doing? Are we meeting our goals? Where are our success stories? Where do our challenges remain? The "State of the Schools Report" is a comprehensive 90+ page report that contains all of that information and more! It is shared annually with the School Committee, our district leadership team, our staff, and the public.

You can check out our 2024-2025 State of the Schools Report by going to www.gorhamschools.org, then clicking on "About Us" and then clicking on "Gorham's Learning System"  and then clicking on "Annual State of Schools Report".

This year, we will be working to develop a "dashboard" that will be placed on our website to help parents follow this vital work without necessarily having to read through 90+ pages of information! As we work on that, though - please check it out and reach out with questions anytime!

GORHAM LAUNCHES NEW ATHLETIC APP!

If you haven't already heard, the Gorham Schools Athletic Department has launched a new app for both iPhones and Android phones. This new app has all kinds of great information about our programs, including specific schedules, stats, links to live streaming, and up-to-date notifications! If you haven't already downloaded it, please do so and follow all the great content available on our programs! You can download the app for free by visiting your Apple or Android store and searching for "Gorham Rams Athletics." GO RAMS!

GORHAM ANTI-RACISM & EQUITY COMMITTEE SEEKS NEW MEMBERS!

As we open up the new school year and welcome back existing members of our School District Anti-Racism & Equity Committee, we also want to reach out to folks to let you know that we are always seeking NEW MEMBERS! Check out the information below and this general information flyer to learn more about the group. Please email heather.perry@gorhamschools.org if you are interested in joining!

GORHAM SCHOOL BACKPACK PROGRAM SIGN-UP INFORMATION!

Gorham Schools BackPack Program – Sign Up Today: LINK HERE!

Sign up now to make sure your child is included when the program begins the week of September 15!

Please remember to fill out one form PER STUDENT if you wish to participate.

The BackPack Program provides snacks and staple meal items to Gorham School Department students experiencing food insecurity. Items are child-friendly, non-perishable, and easy to prepare. Our goal is to support families over the weekend while keeping the process discreet, with the help of school staff.

Program Details:

• Start Date: Week of September 15

• Weekly Distribution: Food bags are given to students during the school day once a week.

• Daily Snack: Each participant also receives one snack per school day.

• Rolling Enrollment: You can join—or stop—at any time during the school year.

• Questions? Contact your school’s coordinator:

  • Gorham High School: Claudine Emerson; claudine.emerson@gorhamschools.org

  • Gorham Middle School: Heather Whitaker; heather.whitaker@gorhamschools.org

  • Great Falls Elementary: Jaime Denham; jaime.denham@gorhamschools.org

  • Village School: Jennifer Baker; jennifer.baker@gorhamschools.org

  • Narragansett Elementary: Courtney Forbes; courtney.burns@gorhamschools.org

GORHAM SCHOOLS NAMED ONE OF MAINE'S BEST PLACES TO WORK IN 2025!

Every other year, the Gorham School Department completes the self-assessment and survey requirements to be considered one of Maine's "Best Places To Work" in the large employer category. In 2023, we ranked #23 out of the top 25 selected. We don't know our ranking yet for 2025, but we know we are one of the top 25 going up against large businesses such as Cianbro, Colby College, Moody's, Bangor Savings Bank and more!

Our Schools are STRONG BECAUSE of our STAFF and now we know just how strong we are for our students! Another incredible year of excellence! GO RAMS!

That's it for this blog post!  Remember, I'll be sending these out every other week (barring vacations, etc.) throughout the year so please feel free to follow!  The next blog will be sent out on September 19!  Enjoy your weekends!