Family Letter and Survey: Early Release Wednesdays
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/423478?org=district
7/29/21
Info about masks & vaccines related to schools. Forum Tonight 6-7 pm
https://mecap.org/backtoschool/
Fox Incident at HDMHS on 7-15-21
A fox, presumed rabid, was aggressive toward an adult last night. Authorities apprehended the animal, so no known threat exists now.
Contact game wardens if any wild animal is seen around human activity.
RSU 2 Board Vote Reduces Tax Allocations!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/491729
Thank you!
Our RSU 2 budget passed.
A special thank you for the flexibility, courage and resilience demonstrated daily.
The amount of learning we were able to accomplish was a direct result of your help with transportation, support for at home learning, pre-teaching safety protocols, and many other contributions!
Will RSU 2 do pool testing?
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/477096
Forms for PERMISSION or DO NOT APPROVE are due back by 6/30. Our families will decide in time to help us prepare for the first student day.
VOTE TODAY!
Please support our schools.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
RSU2 early release day Tuesday 6/8 due to the extreme heat. Temps expected to be over 90 again tomorrow and classrooms are too hot.
Thurs 6/10 is our last day of school and should be a comfortable 73 degrees.
Please VOTE!
Tomorrow June 8th - we need your support for our budget.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Is the district planning to return to school full-time in the fall? Yes! Everyone wants to return to school full-time. We will use grant funds to expand staffing further in our effort to bring all students back full-time despite spacing requirements that may be in place in the fall.
**** Tonight! June 3, 2021 at 7PM****
Hall-Dale High School Concert Band and Chorus!
Here's the link! https://youtu.be/hAYfndl19iw
Remember to SUBSCRIBE and click the bell to get notified of future live events!
We have not one but two events happening in RSU2 tonight!
At Hall-Dale High School, we have the Jazz Band, Jazz Choir and Taiko Drummers at 7:00 PM. Here's the streaming link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUnZMSMqJ1M
At Richmond High School we have the Senior Awards Ceremony at 5:45PM, streamed at this link: https://youtu.be/8eIubTEEtHA
Join our RSU 2 Visioning Team
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/474098
Please mark your calendar! Vote next Tuesday June 8th to support our schools. View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
How has the RSU 2 budget changed over the past decade? We have worked to create fiscally responsible budgets each year. Since 2009, we have averaged an increase of 1.3% per year. In order to maintain this consistently low level of increases, the RSU eliminated about 38 positions gradually over that time period. If our budget had increased at the same annual rate as the Consumer Price Index, the current budget would be more than a million dollars higher than proposed. View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Please help our transportation department prepare bus routes for the fall with in person learning 5 days per week.
Take this survey https://forms.gle/WFwcBSEFMqb1MZwz8
COVID update 5-19-21
Since our last report on 4/28/21, RSU 2 has received reports of 20 positive covid cases. None of those cases required a change in school schedule, but 13 required contact tracing.
Please continue to use the daily health screener and stay home if you have symptoms.
CDC still recommends the use of masks indoors. This is a requirement in RSU 2 buildings, and please consider doing the same in other settings to help prevent the spread.
Here is a link to vaccine information https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines
Join us for the Hall-Dale Middle School Band concert live-stream tonight! May 26, 2021 at 7:30 PM.
Click on the link below to view the live stream on YouTube.
https://youtu.be/b1qefH48liU
If RSU 2 can’t spend Covid funds on regular expenses, what have we spent it on?
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Students have been learning at home this year, so why haven’t costs gone down?
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Haven’t we lost students this year due to Covid? Shouldn’t that bring our costs down?
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
POOL TESTING. RSU 2 is researching this. Meanwhile, families or staff who are interested can learn more about pool testing TONIGHT from a CDC/DOE promoted webinar with Ginkgo Bioworks, from 6:30-7:30 pm. The registration link can be found, here https://ginkgobioworks.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QCndsWzcSm-u8hX-pwL2xg.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Covid Safety measures remain in place in RSU 2.
Please continue to mask, distance and follow all safety measures as directed by school leaders. We need time to investigate the pool testing option that could reduce our requirements, so we will continue all indoor safety measures that have been in place indoors.
As of Monday 5/24, masks will not be required while outside.
Thank you for your support.
Why doesn't RSU 2 make deeper spending cuts to lower our taxes?
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Watch the Hall-Dale Middle School Chorus starting soon on our YouTube channel.
https://youtu.be/66r2xMagYI4
The RSU 2 budget is increasing by about 3%. Did the district make any cuts to keep the budget from increasing as much? Absolutely!
https://5il.co/sewt
How much will this budget increase my property taxes?
How much more individuals will pay depends on which town you live in and the value of your home. For example, a Richmond homeowner with property valued at $215,000 and mil rate of $19.55 could see an estimated increase of $215 in the school portion of the tax bill. A Hallowell homeowner with property valued at $250,00 and mil rate of $21.50 could see an estimated increase of $275 in the school portion of the tax bill. Monmouth’s mil rate is $18.15, Dresden is $18.10, Farmingdale $17.50. The lower the mil rate, the lower the estimated increase.
We recognize that these increases are tough for families to manage, particularly this year. But we think it is critically important to provide our kids with the best education we can.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
Is the district planning to return to school full-time in the fall?
Yes! Everyone wants to return to school full-time. We will use grant funds to expand staffing further in our effort to bring all students back full-time despite spacing requirements that may be in place in the fall.
I thought that the state legislature just agreed to fund 56% of local school district budgets, the highest percentage ever. So how is our state funding “flat”?
How much funding we receive also depends on the real estate property valuations. The higher the value of real estate, the lower the state contributions to schools. Real estate values in our district have increased, so the state expects us to pay more.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
COVID Vaccines for ages 12+
See list of when and where available: https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/459956
MBES Principal Search - Please provide input!
As we prepare for the search process for the next Principal of the Marcia Buker Elementary School, we welcome your input. Please take a moment to complete the survey linked below.
https://forms.gle/sMGWYvALdJch8Zna9
Wait a minute. If the RSU 2 budget is increasing by 3%, why is the bill to each town increasing by 7%-9.5%?
It is very frustrating! We have worked hard to keep the budget reasonable, but our towns increase is higher. How could that be? Two reasons: - The state (not the school district) has a formula that determines how much each town pays. The formula caused an increase in what taxpayers must pay based on changes in mil rate threshold and real estate values. Because the real estate values increased, the state expects towns to contribute more. - No more unspent funds: Last year, we used $500,000 in unspent funds to reduce the amount towns pay. This acted like a one-year credit eliminating the impact of about 1.7% of the increase in the budget last year. Therefore, this year taxpayers need to pay the full amount of the current year’s budget plus the increase in costs in 21-22 for the same programing. This happens every year. Last year for example, the % increases to each municipality was still 3-5%, even after the $500,000 credit was applied. The separate percentages for the town and the RSU budget are not apples-to-apples comparable. The increase in allocation % is the change in town allocation dollar value as a percentage of the previous year’s total allocation for each town. Those percentages will always be higher.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
How much is RSU 2’s budget increasing? 3%. Why?
We did our best to keep our budget reasonable and responsible. Our goal is to provide the best education for our kids without asking too much of our taxpayers. That is a hard balance, particularly because many of the increased costs are beyond our control. Here are a few reasons why the budget has increased:
- Flat funding from the state: Even though many of our costs are going up, state funding to RSU 2 has remained essentially the same.
- Increased teacher salaries: We have been working to raise teacher salaries, both because the state has required it and because we want to attract and retain top teachers. Our budget honors the annual salary increases that the current contract with teachers and all other union staff require. Candidate pool shortages are also leading to hiring of more staff with experience which means higher levels on the pay scales.
- Increased insurance costs: Liability, property and vehicle insurances are increasing 18-22%, and more employees are electing higher health insurance coverage levels, which means that the district must pay more for its share of insurance costs.
- Inflation: The costs of many supplies and equipment are going up. (Ask any contractor about the price of 2X4s these days!)
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sewt
How are communities involved in developing the school budget?
We encourage town officials and the public to get involved in the budget process. All our Board meetings (including committee meetings) are posted and open to public, and in the Superintendent and Business Manager initiate meetings with town managers and other officials to hear challenges towns are facing, concerns, answer questions, and provide information on the proposed budget. The budget usually goes through several drafts before it gets approved by the board.
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/sew1
Planning for full-time in-person learning in the fall:
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/456375
SCHOOL LUNCH HERO FRIDAY 5/7/21!
Please help us by showing gratitude for these heroes!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/455183
Help celebrate our wonderful school nurses tomorrow!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/454258?org=district
How does the RSU 2 budget get developed?
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/454126
View full FAQ here: https://5il.co/samp
Happy School Administrator Appreciation Day!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/451018?org=district
COVID Update 4-28-21
Since our last update three weeks ago, there have been 11 positive cases reported district-wide. Contact tracing was required for only 2 of those, one of which was reported yesterday by Dresden Elementary School. In the contact tracing cases, all close contacts were notified with quarantine instructions, and no school-wide scheduling changes were required.
Thank you again for the continued efforts to follow the safety measures.
As always, please use the daily health screener, and stay home if you are sick.
Appreciation and Gratitude!
If you have a moment, please take the opportunity next week to thank and appreciate our excellent school staff during staff appreciation week.
5/1 - National Principal Appreciation Day
5/4- National Teacher Appreciation Day
5/6- National School Nurse Appreciation Day
5/7- National School Lunch Hero Day
Kind words mean so much to these caring generous people.
Contact Tracing underway at DES 4-15-21
After being notified of one positive case today, calls are being made to close contacts.
All Dresden Elementary PreK and Kindergarten students will be remote learning tomorrow.
Please continue to use the daily health screener and stay home if you are sick.
Child Care Subsidy Available
https://5il.co/rkrd
CONTACT TRACING at MA 4-11-21
We just received word of a new positive case associated with Monmouth Academy. Contact tracing calls will continue to be made throughout the day tomorrow.
Due to the impact on staffing, all MA students will be fully remote next week. All students should login to their classes at the regularly scheduled time. Principal Amero will be sending an email and any necessary updates as well.
Please continue to use the daily health screener, and stay home if you are sick.
Over break, we hope you get as much rest as you can and enjoy the outdoors.
SHORT SCHOOL CALENDAR SURVEY
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/435274
COVID Case Update 4-7-21
In the past two weeks, there have been 5 positive test results reported district-wide to our nurses. Only two required contact tracing, and those required to quarantine were notified immediately.
None of the situations required a change to the regular school schedules.
Please continue to remain diligent with our safety protocols of mask wearing, physical distancing, and staying home if you have symptoms. Working together helps keep our schools open. Thank you for all you are already doing!
In case you have not heard, today is the date that all residents of Maine age 16 and older become eligible for a vaccine. Even if you do not have insurance, if you want a vaccine there are no cost options if you wish to receive a vaccine. See https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines for more information.
Kudos to staff and students who handled an incident well today in Richmond.
Staff and students are safe, and were kept safe, despite an incident that occurred requiring support from our local police department.
To protect the privacy rights of those impacted, we can not provide any more detail.
The response to the situation was safe and swift. Policies were followed, and the procedures required for follow up will be implemented. Support is being provided to those directly impacted.
Thank you for your support and understanding in these matters.
RENTAL ASSISTANCE
for eligible families
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/433415
What is special about April?
Two special themes are celebrated nation-wide this month. Educators and parents use their influence to inspire love and kindness with purposeful action each April.
Earth Month
for ideas visit this link:
https://askhrgreen.org/50-ways-to-celebrate-earth-day-during-social-distancing/
Community Service Month
for ideas visit this link:
https://www.signupgenius.com/nonprofit/social-distance-service-project-ideas.cfm
Today is National Doctors Day.
Thank one for all they have done for us during these especially difficult times.
INTERNET BENEFIT PROGRAM
FOR ELIGIBLE FAMILIES !
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/427720?org=district
MMS Contact Tracing 3-25-21:
There was one new COVID 19 case reported today at Monmouth Memorial School, and close contacts have been called with instructions about quarantine.
There is no change to the school-wide schedule. Unless, as the parent/guardian, you were notified that your child must attend remotely through April 2nd, your child can maintain their usual schedule.
Over the past couple of weeks, there have been 4 additional cases reported RSU-wide. In all four of those situations contact tracing was not required under DOE/CDC protocols.
As always, please remember to use the daily health screener, and stay home if sick.
Thank you to the community for maintaining diligence with our safety protocols until restrictions are lifted.
Reminder to RSU 2 Families: Complete Family Early-Release-Wednesday Survey by 12:00 PM March 26. Thanks!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/423478?org=district
Reminder to RSU 2 Families: Complete Family Early-Release-Wednesday Survey by 12:00 PM March 26. Thanks!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/423478?org=district
Maine's National Distinguished Elementary Principal of the Year for 2021 is ................RSU 2's very own ...............................Principal Clark of Hall-Dale Elementary School!
CONGRATULATIONS PRINCIPAL AMERO!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/422885
A finalist for Maine Secondary Principal of the Year.
HDMS update sent via email by Principal Tinkham last Friday afternoon.
6th graders remote learning this week (3/8 - 3/12). Expected return to hybrid learning for this group is Monday 3/15.
Based on flexibility and efforts of the staff, all other grades in MS and HS at HDMHS are continuing with their current hybrid schedules today.
Hall-Dale Middle School students will be fully remote tomorrow (Fri 3-5-21). There is a contact tracing situation in process.
Calls are being made to all close contacts with quarantine instructions.
More details about the middle school schedule next week will be provided tomorrow.
Travel Advisory Letter from DOE to reference as you make April vacation plans:
https://5il.co/q773
Per DOE and CDC guidelines, travel between states requires certain types of test to end quarantine. Any staff or students who have travelled internationally will not be permitted inside the school building for a minimum of 7 days, even if a negative test has occurred.
HDES Contact Tracing 2-27-21
Contact tracing is underway at HDES based on one new positive case. There is no master schedule change. Close contacts have been contacted with instruction to quarantine.
All other students and staff continue with their regular schedules.
Please use the daily health screenings diligently, and quarantine with symptoms. If your child develops symptoms, please keep them home and call the school nurse during the school day. Anyone with questions about their own particular circumstances, in the evening or on weekends, can call 211 for guidance.
Governor Mills announced this week that vaccines should be available to people 60 and older in March, and a plan for 50 and older to be eligible in April. Here is the maine.gov website about COVID vaccines https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/public-faq
Thank you to everyone for taking physical distancing, mask wearing and hygiene guidelines so seriously. You are helping to keep our schools open for in-person learning.
COVID 19 UPDATE 2-24-21
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/408031?org=district
It is National Random Acts of Kindness Day!
Inspire Kindness
VACATION PLANNING
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/396939
Please follow safety protocols to help keep our school open for in-person learning.
RSU2 Central Office main phone line are out of order today. If you need to reach the RSU2 central office please call 622-5971.
Sorry for the inconvenience.
National School Counselor's Week:
Please join me in sharing heartfelt appreciation for all that these caring team members do to support the academic, health and emotional well-being of our students. They are a true blessing to staff and the community as well.
Reach out and thank one today!
CONTACT TRACING continues at MONMOUTH ACADEMY.
There is one additional case at MA, which because they are already in remote mode means no further changes in schedule.
Calls are being made today to close contacts with quarantine instructions. The anticipated return date to hybrid model remains Monday February 8th.
CONTACT TRACING Richmond High School on 2-1-21
Contract tracing underway today at RHS. Due to one positive case and staff coverage issues, all High School students will be remote learning Wednesday through next Monday. Calls are being made today to all close contacts with quarantine instructions. We have an anticipated return to current in-person schedules for the High School on Tuesday, February 9th.
RMS middle school students will continue their current in-person schedules.
Please continue to use the daily health screener, and stay home if you are sick. Stay warm and rested.
SNOW DAY! 2-2-21
Tomorrow (Tuesday 2-2-21) will be a snow day for RSU 2.
No remote learning will be required.
The last day of school for students remains Thursday, June 10th.
CONTACT TRACING underway today at HDMS.
Due to one positive case and staff coverage issues, all 8th graders at Hall-dale Middle School will be remote learning tomorrow through all of next week. We have an anticipated return to the current in-person schedule for the 8th grade on Monday, February 8th.
All other HDMS and HDHS grade levels will continue their current in-person schedules.
Calls are being made today to all close contacts with quarantine instructions.
Please continue to use the daily health screener, and stay home if you are sick.
Get out into fresh air and sunshine today if you can.
CONTACT TRACING AT MONMOUTH MEMORIAL SCHOOL 1-29-21
MMS students will all be fully remote next week, due to one positive case and staff coverage issues. Calls are being made today to close contacts with quarantine instructions.
The anticipated return is Monday February 8th.
CONTACT TRACING AT MONMOUTH ACADEMY.
MA students will all go fully remote tomorrow through 2/5/21, due to one positive case and staff coverage issues. Calls are being made today to close contacts with quarantine instructions. The anticipated return will be Monday February 8th.
CONGRATULATIONS PRINCIPAL CLARK!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/387933
Help increase broadband coverage in our state by clicking here:
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/387607?org=district
Then follow the link to take this less-than-a-minute test to map your own speed through the Maine Broadband Coalition’s website.
CONTACT TRACING AT RICHMOND MS
Richmond Middle School students will all go fully remote tomorrow through 1/29/21, due to one positive case and staff coverage issues. Calls are being made today to close contacts with quarantine instructions. The anticipated middle school return will be Monday February 1st.
Richmond high school students will continue with their current in person schedules.
CONTACT TRACING at Personalized Learning Center at Reed St.
Due to contact tracing related to one positive case, all students who attend the Personalized Learning Center will be remote learning beginning tomorrow through next week. The anticipated reopening of the Center is Monday, February 1st.
Please use the daily health screener, monitor for symptoms, and stay home if you are sick.
Thank you for all you are doing to help stop the spread.
MBES will be remote only this week due to staff coverage issues and one positive case. Contact tracing is under way 1-16-21. All close contacts will be called and receive a letter with instructions. The anticipated reopening to hybrid learning at MBES is 1-25-21.
Please use the daily health screener and stay home if you are sick.
CONTACT TRACING at HDES 1-14-21
Due to staffing coverage, as well as another positive case associated with Hall-Dale Elementary, all HDES PreK learners will be fully remote beginning tomorrow. The anticipated return to regular hybrid schedules for our PreK is currently Monday January 25th.
Those identified as close contacts have been called by the school nurse or school administrator.
Every day please use the health screener, and stay home if you are sick.
CONTACT TRACING at CO 1-13-21
We have completed contact tracing at the RSU 2 central office due to one positive case. At this time, there is no change to the central office hours of operation. Please be patient as we continue our work with some reductions in manpower and/or restrictions reducing in-person meetings.
Please use the health screener every day, and stay home if you are sick.
CLOSE CALL at MBES 1-13-21
There is no change in schedule for students.
All close contacts have already been contacted.
CONTACT TRACING at HDES.
Due to staffing coverage, as well as one positive case associated with Hall-Dale Elementary, all HDES 4th grade learners will be fully remote beginning tomorrow. The anticipated return to regular hybrid schedules for grade 4 is currently Monday January 25th.
Those identified as close contacts are being called by the school nurse or school administrator..
Every day please use the health screener, and stay home if you are sick.
CONTACT TRACING at MMS 1-9-21
Due to staffing limitations and one positive case associated with Monmouth Memorial school. MMS 2nd and 5th graders will be fully remote next week. These students will log in to their long-term remote schedule. We anticipate a return to the in-person hybrid model for these two grades on Tuesday January 19th.
All close contacts will be called this weekend. A follow up letter with instructions for quarantine and symptom monitoring will be mailed on Monday to these individuals.
The other MMS grade levels will follow the current in-person schedules.
Want to thank an amazing teacher?
Nominate!
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/377583
CONTACT TRACING at RHS continues. A second (unrelated) positive case was identified today, and additional close contacts were notified.. There is no further schedule changes necessary. The HS will operate remotely through January 18th. The middle school continues with in-person learning as currently scheduled.
CONTACT TRACING AT RICHMOND HS
Here is a link to a letter to the Richmond Community
https://5il.co/odb2
This announces that the Richmond HS students will all go fully remote tomorrow through 1/18/21.
The middle school will continue with their current in person schedules.
CONTACT TRACING AT RICHMOND HS 1-7-20
Here is a link to a letter to Richmond Staff https://5il.co/odb3
CONTACT TRACING at HDMHS, but no change in schedule. Over break there was a small group of students who need to quarantine. None of those individuals attended school this week. Therefore, there is no impact on schedule for the rest of the school or district.
Again, please use the daily health screener and flow chart about when to return if you have symptoms.
Most common covid symptoms are new cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, loss of taste or smell, fever, chills, sore throat. Less common symptoms include muscle pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, new headache, or congestion/runny nose. The health screener indicates when to stay home, and your physician office or school nurse can help you determine when it is appropriate for return to school if you have questions.
CONTACT TRACING in RSU 2, but no change in schedule.
Over break there were a hand full of staff spread across the RSU who need to quarantine and a small group of students from Monmouth. None of those individuals who need to quarantine attended school yesterday.
Therefore, there is no impact on schedule for the rest of the staff and students in the district.
A special thank you to all who followed the suggested safety guidelines over break in an effort to help keep our schools open.
Remember to use the daily screener before leaving home, and stay home to take care of yourself when you are sick.
Happy New Year!
May the holiday season fill your home with joy, your heart with love, and your life with laughter.
Holiday break is 12/23/20 through 1/3/21.
Enjoy!
Remote learning day for Hall-dale HIGH SCHOOL tomorrow 12/22/20.
A ventilation unit has had an unexpected issue impacting the HS wing only. According to our vendor, the unit will be repaired tomorrow by the end of the day.
Close calls with COVID & Appeal for your help:
https://5il.co/o0k1
Hope you are able to enjoy the beauty of the blizzard, while staying safe and warm!
RSU 2 REMOTE LEARNING DAY Thursday 12/17/20:
Due to WABI 5 predicting 4 to 8 inches of snow tomorrow, falling just before the morning commute and ending just after the late afternoon commute, RSU 2 will have a remote learning day tomorrow.
We are making the announcement now so that families have time to plan for childcare with remote learning tomorrow. Our staff have been preparing for remote learning support tomorrow already today.
The last student day of the school year remains June 10th as this remote learning day does not add another day to the student calendar.
RSU2 Parent Notice: Google services were not functional early this AM. Service to gmail, google classroom and all other systems have been restored.
MBES Contact Tracing 12-12-20:
No change in school schedule required on this one. https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/365972
Dresden Elementary is remote learning tomorrow 12/7 due to power outage. Families should do the best they can with storm packs or other preplanned remote learning work
Winter Athletics and Co-Curricular Activities
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/361171
MPA pushes the start date for in-person team-based practices and within team competitions to January 4th.
Dresden Elementary Remote Learning Today 12/1 due to no power.
DRESDEN Elementary School Contact Tracing 11-24-20: No change in school schedule required on this one.
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/355707
HDES Contact Tracing 11-21-20:
No change in school schedule required on this one.
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/354123
CONTACT TRACING UPDATE:
As of today, 6 of our 7 schools have been touched by Covid 19 since September. The remote learning lengths have been varied because in each situation the positive case has had a different level of impact (based on # of contacts and their roles). We have been relatively lucky. This week one case related to RMHS had no impact on the school schedule as the positive case was not in school during the contagious period. Today, one case connected to MMS is creating a remote learning situation for the next three school days Mon, Tues and Mon 11/30, with an anticipated return to regular hybrid schedule on Tuesday 12/1.
Please do all you can during Thanksgiving week (and beyond) to help stop the spread of the virus. Mask wearing, physical distancing, wellness activities, and getting a flu shot are more important than ever.
Take Care.
MMS CONTACT TRACING
Due to one positive case connected to MMS, all students will be remote learning next Monday and Tuesday, as well as Monday 11/30. At this time we anticipate a return to the regular hybrid schedule beginning Tuesday 12/1/20.
Principal Barter and/or teachers will send a separate message with remote learning instructions for students and families.
DES has no power. Staff and students will try to work remote today.
DES returns to hybrid schedule 11/10/20
TRAVEL/HOLIDAY PLANNING
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/340808
Please be safe!
Our Covid Response Team (CRT) will host a forum for RSU 2 families on Tuesday 11/10/20 from 6:00-7:00 pm.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://networkmaine.zoom.us/j/87110606934
Meeting ID: 871 1060 6934
MBES returns to hybrid schedule on Thursday 11/5/20
HALL-DALE ELEMENTARY returns to hybrid schedule on Thursday 11/5/20 with CDC's blessing.
Election Day 11-3-20 - RSU 2 Remote Only Learning
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/339569
Hall-Dale Elementary Remote Only 11/2/20
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/338664
Reminder ALL schools in RSU 2 are remote only on Tues 11-3-20 Election Day, as well as Wed 11-4-20, as planned on our approved calendar.
MBES is Remote Only Monday 11-2-20
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/338460
Reminder ALL schools in RSU 2 are remote only on Tues 11-3-20 Election Day, as well as Wed 11-4-20, as planned on our approved calendar.
MBES Contact Tracing update to RSU
https://5il.co/mnpr
MBES Contact Tracing Update to Staff
https://5il.co/mnpq
Remote learning day tomorrow (Fri 10/30/20) for Marcia Buker Elementary School.
Thu/Fri and 4 day students, check your see saw and google classroom assignments tomorrow. School staff will be reaching out to families.
Mon/Tues students follow your regular plan for tomorrow.
Mary Paine is acting as Principal while Principal McKee is out. He says hello by the way. He is working on feeling better.
Contact tracing is under way at Marcia Buker Elementary School in Richmond. No other school in RSU 2 is impacted at this time.
Out of an abundance of caution which will allow complete and thorough contact tracing, Marcia Buker staff and students will be working remotely tomorrow.
More communication will be sent out tomorrow regarding next week. As always, please respect the privacy of others in these tough times.
Update from Covid Response Team
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/337015
Contact tracing underway at Dresden Elementary School
https://5il.co/ml9q
Our Covid Response Team (CRT) is beginning to look ahead to better prepare this year for flu season in case periods of all remote learning become necessary. We are asking parents/guardians to answer these 7 questions:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KZR35CT
Thank you for your help and feedback.
NEW HEALTH SCREENER
& RETURN TO SCHOOL CHART for students as of 10/22/20:
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/332163
Dear MBES community, Principal McKee is beginning a FMLA leave tomorrow. Please send positive vibes his way and in support of the staff as they navigate during his absence. We will have Assistant Superintendent Paine working from that building to support the teacher leadership already in place there. Any communication that typically would go to the Principal, please send to mpaine@kidsrsu.org until further notice.
Sincerely, Superintendent Arnold
Thank a bus driver on Friday which is School Bus Driver Day!
We have an amazing group of drivers that come to work everyday. They are dedicated, caring and professional.
RSU # 2 School buses traveled 315,135 miles last year transporting on average 1200-1400 students daily to and from school.
IF you happen to see one on Friday, wish them a Happy School Bus Driver Day!
Monmouth Memorial School - This coming Monday on 10-19-20 the middle school returns to hybrid schedule.
Here is a link to the new health screening tool updated by DOE in October: https://5il.co/m7px
Please continue to do symptom checks every morning before leaving home.
MMS Contact Tracing Update 10-12-20.
MMS middle school will be remote learning all week this week.
Continued contact tracing and daily health screenings have uncovered one additional possible case at the middle school level, in addition to the one original positive case.
All students and staff who are known close contacts to the original case, and those who are considered close contacts of the new probable middle school case, have been notified to quarantine.
The CDC still deems it safe for the PreK-5 grades at MMS to resume the typical hybrid learning schedule tomorrow.
All other schools in RSU 2 are safe to continue with our hybrid model learning as scheduled.
Any one with questions about their own particular circumstances, can call 211 for guidance.
Take care.
Update on MMS contact tracing 10/9/20
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/324047
Contact tracing at Monmouth Memorial School
https://5il.co/lxb8
Remote learning day tomorrow for Monmouth Memorial School
Principal Barter wants you to check the website for remote learning instructions.
Contact tracing situation underway
at one school in Monmouth
https://5il.co/lxb9
NATIONAL CUSTODIAN APPRECIATION DAY Friday 10/2/20 Please thank a custodian tomorrow. They are the quiet hero of the schools. Always the first to arrive each day, clean up messes no one dares to touch, and befriends everyone that passes by. Their work is harder and more scrutinized than ever before these days. Please take time to appreciate each one. Thank you all!
NO POWER AT DES
No school for DES students
Staff work from home today
NEED YOUR STUDENT CAUGHT UP ON VACCINATIONS?
Here is a list of places by appointment that are focused on vaccinations:
https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/immunization/vaccine-clinic.shtml
UPDATE ON RETURN TO SCHOOL PLAN 9-26-20
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/315336
Updated School Nutrition Information
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/314393
ALLOWED FACE COVERINGS - EXEC ORDER 49 defines
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/311917
DAILY HEALTH SCREENER UPDATED 9-21-20
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/311913
Vote on Fall Athletic and Co/Extra-Curricular Activities
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/306393
SAFE RETURN TO SCHOOL FAQ
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/302070
Health Check BEFORE LEAVING HOME
First day of school AND every other day!
Find links to the screening tool here https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/302066
RSU2 BREAKNG NEWS!!
IT IS WITH GREAT PLEASURE AND EXCITEMENT THAT WE ANNOUNCE THAT OUR LEARNERS WILL EAT FOR FREE UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2020. THE USDA HAS GRANTED THE STATE OF MAINE THIS MUCH NEEDED AND APPRECIATED WAIVER.
Read more about it here: https://5il.co/km9g
ATHLETICS & CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/297057
STUDENT DAILY HEALTH SCREENER & RETURN FLOW CHART
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/296365
Livestream Monmouth Memorial School Dedication Ceremony, Thursday, August 27, 6:00PM
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/295411
School Lunch Information for Fall 2020
Please read this news article from Chrissy Michaud, RSU2 Food Services director.
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/294440
Board approved new Safety Plan document and school calendar. Read news article from Superintendent Arnold by clicking the following link: https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/289341?org=district
Friendly reminder ~ The Individualized Return to School Parent Survey closes tomorrow, Wed, Aug 12! Here's the link... https://bit.ly/30O5BA1
The RSU2 Board of Directors is pleased to announce Tonya Arnold as our new superintendent, effective August 1st. Tonya recently finished a superintendent position with the Vinalhaven School District. Tonya brings to RSU2 over 20 years of teaching, administrative and superintendent knowledge, as well as experience in the corporate world and as a business owner. At the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences, Tonya led a proficiency and project-based school, and brings that leadership to support RSU2’s current staff of dedicated teachers and curriculum leaders.
Tonya resides in Richmond with her husband, Steve. They have two adult children with families of their own. Over the next several weeks, Tonya will meet with Acting Superintendent Paine, RSU2 staff, students and families to get to know us all and learn more about what makes RSU2 great. Please join us in welcoming Tonya to our community.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Hamann
Chair, RSU2 Board of Directors
JULY 31 RSU 2 UPDATE ON RETURN TO LEARNING
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/279150
7/26/2020 RSU 2 UPDATE ON THE RETURN TO SCHOOL
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/275855
7/26/2020 UPDATE ON THE RETURN TO SCHOOL
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/275855
Return to School 2020-21: Interim Update for Families
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/270896
Return to School 2020-21: Interim Update for Families
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/270896
PARENT SURVEY: RETURN TO LEARNING 20-21
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/264467
PARENT SURVEY: RETURN TO LEARNING 20-21 https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/264467
PARENT SURVEY: RETURN TO LEARNING 20-21
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/264467
Reminder: Virtual budget hearing tonight at 6:00PM. Join us to hear an overview of the budget to inform your July 14 budget vote (referendum validation). Please note: there is no vote taking place tonight, but public comment is welcome.
Join Zoom Meeting 6:00PM
https://networkmaine.zoom.us/j/81784976241 Meeting ID: 817 8497 6241 One tap mobile +13126266799,,81784976241# US (Chicago) Dial by your location +1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
JUNE 9 MESSAGE FROM ACTING SUPERINTENDENT MARY PAINE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/258735
Postponed: Tonight's Special Board Meeting on Budget until May 27
ROBOTICS TEAM ENGINEERS COMMUNITY SERVICE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/246476
Office Hours for Hall-Dale: 6:00 PM: Hope to see you there!
Login
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83973707610?pwd=eWgvZ1lwNFVUcXAyYVZzYVpNaWlLZz09
Meeting ID: 839-7370-7610
Password: halldale
mary paine is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89561975221?pwd=SERmMVlhVGorQnRxUnZwMGZodnpUZz09
Meeting ID: 895 6197 5221
Password: Richmond
MAY 3: ACTING SUPERINTENDENT'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/241224
RSU 2 DISTANCE LEARNING AND CARING video
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/234040
RSU 2 MEAL SITE SCHEDULE APRIL 20-MAY 1
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/233730
Supt's office hours 6:00 PM tonight. Stop by to say hello, ask a question, or share ideas. Hope to see you there!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95197063360?pwd=UUFYcFRrOU05RmpVWkF4aERUYkwxUT09
Meeting ID: 951 9706 3360
Password: 099234
Supt's office hours 6:00 PM tonight. Stop by to say hello, ask a question, or share ideas. Hope to see you there!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/95197063360?pwd=UUFYcFRrOU05RmpVWkF4aERUYkwxUT09
Meeting ID: 951 9706 3360
Password: 099234
Due to the power outage, the RSU 2 meal site at the Henry L. Cottrell School is closed today. The Monmouth town office site is also closed. Our Richmond Middle, Dresden Elementary, Hall-Dale Elementary, and Hall-Dale High school sites will be open as planned from 10:30-12:30.
Notice of RSU2 Special Board Meeting
Agenda:
https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/657166/RSU_BRD_OF_DIRECTORS_Special_Mtg_4.9.2020.pdf
Supts. Office Hours: 6:00 PM Tonight. Hope you can join!
https://zoom.us/j/711943378
Meeting ID: 711 943 378
MARCH 27, COVID-19 SUPERINTENDENT'S MESSAGE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/220934
RICHMOND MIDDLE SCHOOL NOW AN APPROVED RSU 2 MEAL SITE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/218871
THREE RSU 2 SPONSORED MEAL SERVICE SITES TO OPEN AS EARLY AS WEDNESDAY, MARCH
25. https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/218462?org=district
MARCH 23, 2020: CONTINUITY OF EDUCATION
ACTING SUPERINTENDENT PAINE https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/217319
Sorry for the missing link! MARCH 21, 2020 MESSAGE FROM ACTING SUPERINTENDENT MARY PAINE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/216823
MARCH 21, 2020 MESSAGE FROM ACTING SUPERINTENDENT MARY PAINE
RSU 2 SCHOOLS CLOSED UNTIL AT LEAST APRIL 27TH
RSU 2 Resending with fixed link
MARCH 18, 2020 COVID-19 CLOSURE UPDATE
https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/214249
RSU 2 MARCH 18, 2020 COVID-19 CLOSURE UPDATEhttps://www.kidsrsu.org/article/214249
FOOD FOR RSU 2 CHILDREN: https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/213334
MARCH 17 SCHOOL CLOSURE UPDATE https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/212928
Resources from Our School Counselors
See news post here: http://www.kidsrsu.org/article/212516?org=district
RSU 2 SCHOOLS CLOSED FOR TWO WEEKS https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/209847
3.13.2020 NOTICE OF WORKSHOP MONDAY, MARCH 16: https://www.kidsrsu.org/article/208022
COVID-19 PANDEMIC RSU #2 ADMINISTRATIVE LETTER 2
http://www.kidsrsu.org/article/206537
Board Approves Adjustments to 2019-20 School Calendar Due to Snow Days.
1. March 19 has been changed to a full student day.
2. April 17 has been changed to a full student day.
3. March 20 is an in-house teacher workshop day;
students do not attend.
Message from Acting Superintendent, Mary Paine
Regarding: Infectious Disease Awareness and Preparedness
https://5il.co/dcsg
Due to the storm all RSU2 schools will be closed today, Thursday February 13.
Good Morning. Due to the weather, there is a 2 hour delayed start today, February 10, in all RSU2 schools.
Notice from RSU2: No school today, Friday, February 7 in any RSU2 school due to the winter storm. Have a good weekend and be safe everyone.
This is Acting Superintendent Mary Paine letting you know that all after school activities in RSU 2 are cancelled due to the continuing storm. Have a great afternoon.
Notice from RSU2: Due to the storm we are cancelling school today, Thursday February 6. No school today in any RSU 2 school.
Good morning. This is Acting Superintendent, Mary Paine. This is Thursday, January 16. Due to the storm, all RSU 2 schools are closed today and all after school activities, including athletics, are cancelled. I hope you all stay safe and can enjoy a winter day in Maine.
Acting Superintendent' s Letter to the RSU 2 Community: http://www.kidsrsu.org/article/177188?org=district
Good afternoon. This is Mary Paine, Assistant Superintendent of RSU 2. Due to the snow expected this afternoon and evening, all after school activities are cancelled. The timing of the storm will allow schools to stay open as usual and get children home safely.
Due to the winter storm warning in effect and significant snowfall expected all day tomorrow, there will be no school and/or activities on Tuesday, December 3. All evening events will be rescheduled. Have a safe, fun snow day!
Just a reminder that there is no school in RSU 2 from Wednesday, November 27 through Friday, November 29 for the Thanksgiving Break. I wish you all a safe and joyous holiday with family and friends.
Due to the freezing rain and ice expected this evening, there will be no after school activities on November 18. All students and faculty should head home once school is dismissed. Drive safely and have a good evening.
School is now canceled in RSU 2 on November 12, 2019 due to significant icing expected all morning. Be safe today and have a great day!
School is now canceled in RSU 2 November 12, 2019 due to significant icing expected all morning. Be safe today and have a great day!
No School Today Friday November 1, 2019 due to power outages in multiple locations.
Students at Marcia Buker had a visit from our guests from Japan today. They spoke in Japanese and saw a traditional Japanese dance! Thank you for traveling to us and sharing your culture!
Monmouth Topping Off Ceremony is Monday July 8 at 3PM. All are welcome!
Catching up on the changes in laws. Serving the RSU community. Vacation to follow. Let’s all lean towards the sun!
RSU 2 is ready!!! Regional Swim Meet for Special Olympics meet for Kennebec County.
Music in Freeport!
Great work district III learners!! Rsu 2 is proud of your performance!!
Richmond Middle School students are sharing their landfill projects with the RSU 2 School Board
All RSU 2 schools will be closed Monday, March 4
Notice of phishing emails that may appear to come from RSU2. Read more here: http://www.kidsrsu.org/article/93426
RSU 2 schools will be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 13
2-hour delay with no morning pre-k for RSU 2 schools. 1/30/19
Amazing performance tonight at Hall-Dale High School!
Two hour delay! At All RSU schools due to slippery roads. NO AM pre-k. Please be careful!
Educate Maine celebrating Maine’s education leaders of the year including RSU 2’s Deb Murphy as Special Education Administrator of the year and Matt Shea, as Curriculum Leader
NPR covering the work of RSU 2
https://www.npr.org/2018/11/30/659822344/hope-agency-mastery-and-other-terms-educators-are-redefining
An RSU 2 grad fromHall-Dale, Will Fahy, helping his college Rocketey club. https://www.cmu.edu/mcs/news-events/2018/0511_NASA_SL.html
Wonderful to watch the 7th graders at HDHS give their Gateway Presentations. They relfected on their first two years of MS and connected their learning to the Guiding Principles. What a great way for the staff to create the conditions for our learners to develop agency.
Reading workshop training in out PD room. Minilesson on what makes a good written argument and how to lead a workshop with learners.
RSU2 swimmers at STate Meet thank you families. Staff. Bates College.
Excited to spend the morning with RSU 2’s JMG students at their Career Development Conference.
Thank you families, staff, and athletes!! Today is a great day for RSU2 swimmers!
Discussing the new RSU 2, pre-K to 8th grade building in Monmouth. Excited to see the project continue to move forward.
Due to continued unsafe conditions, all RSU2 schools will be closed again today, March 14, 2018.
No school in RSU 2 tomorrow, March 13 due to the incoming storm.
Commitment for action. Meet students with challenges to grow and develop skills for success!
No school tomorrow, March 8 in any RSU2 school due to the snow storm. Be safe and help each other.
Great weekend for RSU 2 learners in and out of the classroom!!! Commitment. Planning. Doing. Keep setting goals !!! We are proud of you!!
Monmouth Girls Win over Houlton! 56 to 50
Pep Rally for the Monmouth Girls!! Good luck in the State Championship game on Saturday!!
Hall-Dale High School pep rally. Go Bulldogs!! Great energy going into State Championship game Saturday Night 8:45.
Hall-Dale High School Key Club presenting their community service activities to the RSU 2 School Board.
Hall-Dale JMG sharing their winning proposal for how to deal with hunger to the RSU 2 Board.
Working with the RSU 2 Superintendent's Cabinet to learn from and llan how we can Cultivate Hope in All Learners.
First official Hall-Dale versus Richmond girls game is about to start.
One day closer. #hope
Excited to have the new RSU 2 App up and running
Welcome to the new website and app!