SAD 70, including the town of Ludlow, has been together since 1973, enjoying over 40 years of educational experience for the students of this district. Recently there has been a move to have Ludlow withdraw from the school district by some members of the community. An agreement was negotiated between the town of Ludlow and SAD 70 for such a withdrawal if the voters of Ludlow approve the withdrawal agreement by a two-thirds majority on Tuesday, Nov. 7.
On behalf of the SAD 70 school committee and the administration, we urge all voters to read the entire agreement and to consider voting to support the town of Ludlow staying in SAD 70. Although there are projected savings for the town of Ludlow in withdrawing from the district to join another district, such as RSU 29, there are also projected costs that will offset that savings. The withdrawal agreement allows for many current students to continue to attend SAD 70 and to have transportation provided to those students.
We have spoken to many community members and parents who believe that the vote is about far more than money and projected savings. Many people want to continue to have their families attend the same schools that they attended. Many people value the traditions and the family atmosphere fostered in the smaller, local schools that they know and love. Education has changed a great deal since many of us went to school. The needs, interests, goals and opportunities for students are greatly expanded but the avenues to reach those goals are also greatly expanded.
SAD 70 makes sure that the budget includes funds to support students in many avenues of life including art, music, world languages, computer technology, gifted/talented and special education. We also pursue grants that expand those opportunities like 21st Century Community Learning Centers K-12, Gear Up for College/Career 7-12, Guidance for Grades 1-6, and MELMAC for College Visits and preparedness. Our teachers, support staff and administration know their students and go the extra mile to ensure their success in all aspects of education.
In the future, the face of education will continue to change and there may well be a combining of resources of the Southern Aroostook Region to provide more educational opportunities to our children. In the meantime, we urge the voters of Ludlow to ask many questions and to carefully consider the impact that such a withdrawal would have on your children.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at anytime, 532-3015.
Scott Richardson
Superintendent of Schools
