Good Afternoon,
This is Dave Murphy, MSAD 44 Superintendent of Schools and this is my Friday Update for May 28, 2021, including updates on Telstar vaccine clinic, Stephens Memorial vaccine clinic, bus drivers, graduation schedule, and upcoming budget vote.
I am pleased to report that we had 45 middle and high school students who participated in this week’s vaccination clinic at Telstar. They will be receiving their second dose on June 15 between 8:00 and 9:30 and will be completely vaccinated in time to enjoy the upcoming summer break. Chris Cole, our district nurse, has also asked me to let you know that the COVID vaccine clinic at Stephens Memorial Hospital is now open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and is accepting walk-ins. The Pfizer vaccine for students 12 and over will be available from 11:30 to 5:00 on those days.
We continue to face a shortage of bus drivers and will likely have to continue to do double bus runs through the end of the year. The transportation department is doing its best to attempt to alternate the bus runs that are being impacted and we appreciate your patience as we continue to deal with this ongoing challenge. As you are likely aware, this is a state-wide problem and we continue to actively seek drivers to add to our roster. The good news is that we do have some new candidates who are currently in the pipeline and receiving the required training.
The schedule of activities for graduation week has now been posted on the web site. We hope you will be able to join the celebration by participating in the parade around the common to celebrate our seniors on Tuesday, June 8th!
Many thanks to those of you who were able to join us for the virtual public budget hearing on the proposed FY 22 budget Wednesday night. The next step will be to seek the approval of district voters at the upcoming referendum on June 8th.
In closing, please accept my best wishes for an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend.