planning, major infrastructure investment, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student well-being. Across administration, governance, and operations, the district is balancing immediate demands with a long-term vision. At a time when many districts face uncertainty, MSAD #51 is advancing with clarity, grounded in planning, collaboration, and a deeply rooted focus on students. REVISITING THE STRATEGIC VISION The district is currently developing a new strategic plan, marking its first comprehensive update since 2018. That earlier plan was designed as a threeyear framework but was repeatedly extended as the district navigated pandemic disruptions and mounting enrollment pressures. “We haven’t had a new strategic plan since 2018,” says Jeff Porter, Superintendent of MSAD #51. “It was supposed to be a three-year plan, but during the pandemic, it was extended and continued to be extended as we kept adding priorities. At this point, it’s time for a new plan.” Porter explains that the process will unfold over approximately a year and will involve broad stakeholder engagement. Students, families, staff, and community members will be invited to help shape a plan to guide the district over the next three to four years. The timing, he adds, reflects both readiness and necessity. With several long-standing priorities now underway, the district has an opportunity to refocus on its broader academic and organizational goals. FACILITIES PLANNING MEETS COMMUNITY VALUES One of the most significant milestones informing the new strategic plan is the voter-approved One Campus Project, a comprehensive facilities initiative designed to address both immediate space needs and long-term sustainability. “The board wants to do this, and the community is ready for it,” explains Leanne Candura, Chair of the MSAD #51 Board of Directors.“Many of the priorities from the previous strategic plan are already being addressed through this project, which makes it the right time to look ahead.” The One Campus Project includes a new prekindergarten through grade two school, classroom additions to the existing elementary school, a new maintenance facility, an artificial turf field with lighting, and extensive site improvements. Rather than approaching these needs individually, the district intentionally bundled them into a single proposal. 351 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01 MAINE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISTRICT #51
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