The Vassalboro School Board reviewed several budget items, heard reports from administrators, and accepted two staff resignations during its meeting on March 10, 2026.
The meeting opened with a presentation from Library Media Specialist Erin Sirois, who provided an overview of the school’s library program and recent initiatives. Sirois said the library focuses on the “three R’s”: reading, research and recreation, serving as a shared space where students can read, conduct research and collaborate. Sirois reported that book circulation has increased in recent years, with approximately 5,000 books checked out so far this school year compared with about 4,000 at the same point during her first year in the position. The library now offers an open period each morning from 8 to 8:40 a.m., allowing students to exchange books, play games, or finish work before classes begin.
In addition to managing the collection, Sirois teaches library and research skills to students from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade and works with teachers to support classroom research projects. Sirois also described partnerships with the school’s PTO and the Vassalboro Public Library, including events such as the annual book fair and reading initiatives. Board members thanked Sirois for the work and the improvements made to the library program.
Administrators reported that school enrollment currently stands at 414 students, with little change in recent weeks. Attendance remains steady at 94.85 percent, and the number of chronically absent students has declined slightly from 49 to 47.
Several recent and upcoming school activities were also highlighted. The school celebrated Read Across America Week with themed activities and reading events, including a school wide “buddy read.” The celebration also launched the school’s participation in the “Bikes for Books” reading program, supported by the Vassalboro Masonic Lodge.
Several other events were noted, including the school’s upcoming Pi Day event, where students compete to memorize digits of the mathematical constant pi. Students in grades five through eight also recently attended an assembly featuring motivational speaker and musician B. Farris.
School administrators provided updates on facility improvements and district operations. The Maine Department of Education approved reimbursement for the installation of a fence around the school’s pre-K playground. Superintendent Pfeiffer noted work is also underway on building energy upgrades, including the installation of updated wiring and thermostat systems intended to improve temperature control and efficiency.
Director of Finance Paula Pooler was absent, so Superintendent Pfeiffer presented the financial update. During the update, officials noted that 68.22 percent of the fiscal year has passed while 66.30 percent of the district’s budget has been spent, suggesting expenditures remain on track.
The board also examined projected secondary tuition costs for students in grades nine through 12 attending schools outside the district. The district currently expects about 163 secondary students next year, down slightly from 168 this year. Based on current estimates, the secondary tuition budget would increase from about $2.49 million to approximately $2.57 million.
Under personnel matters, administrators reported two resignations: an education technician I and the school’s softball coach.
Board members noted that upcoming meetings will focus primarily on continued budget review. A joint meeting between the school board and the town’s budget committee is currently scheduled for April 7.
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