September 7, 2023
School Building Advisory Committee Community Forum Scheduled for September 20
CAPE ELIZABETH, ME - The School Building Advisory Committee (SBAC) will host a community forum to present the results of the recent school building survey on September 20 at 6:30pm at Town Hall. Residents may also join via Zoom; details will be posted at the Town website, www.capeelizabeth.com.
Over 1,600 individuals completed the survey - nearly 22% of Cape Elizabeth's adult population. This robust participation underscores the community's strong interest in the future of our schools. As a reminder, all survey data is anonymous to protect individual privacy, and a comprehensive report of the results will be posted on the Town website prior to the forum.
Update on Selection of New Design Firm
The SBAC received five responses to a Request for Designer Qualifications issued August 14, 2023, and is currently reviewing those submissions. The committee will recommend a firm for final selection which will be voted on by the School Board and Town Council in October.
Once hired, the selected firm will develop multiple options for addressing Cape Elizabeth’s school building needs. Those options will be shared with the community in early 2024.
Upcoming Community Forums
The September 20 forum is the first of several forums the SBAC has planned to ensure the public has an opportunity to engage and provide feedback on the project. Dates and details for all forums will be available on the Town website.
A second forum is planned for October to introduce the new design team to the public and provide an opportunity for residents to learn about their approach to the project. Residents will have an opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions.
A follow-up community forum with the design team will be held in early 2024 to review the proposed design options. This meeting will focus on how each option addresses the deficits in the school buildings and meets the educational needs of students and staff, as well as financial considerations and feasibility.
The SBAC strongly encourages residents to attend the forums. Community participation is essential in shaping the future of Cape Elizabeth's educational facilities.
About the Cape Elizabeth School Building Advisory Committee (SBAC)
The SBAC, formed in March 2023, is a joint ad hoc advisory committee of the School Board and the Town Council. Their mission is to develop a strategic, cost-effective plan to address our town's school building needs, following the rejection of a $116 million school bond referendum in November 2022. Their work is centered on thorough assessment, comprehensive community outreach, and creating a plan that serves the needs of students, educators, families, and the community.
For additional information or media inquiries, please contact:
Christopher Record
Superintendent, Cape Elizabeth Schools
crecord@capeelizabethschools.org
207-799-2217