The former Holman Mission House at 227 Main  St. in Farmington has been transformed into offices for Regional School Unit 9. An open house will be held Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. Submitted Photo

FARMINGTON — The Regional School Unit 9 board of directors was reminded this week of the open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new central office building Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. at 227 Main St.

The former Holman Mission Home has been transformed into space for the superintendent and the business/finance, special services and school nutrition departments, as well as for community members.

The board, meeting Tuesday at Bjorn Career and Technical Education Center at Mt. Blue Middle School, also heard from Chairperson Dorothy “Dee” Robinson, who introduced Julian Reynolds, a junior at Mt. Blue High School. “Julian loves being outdoors. He enjoys hiking in the summer and fishing any chance he gets, even ice fishing in the winter,” she said.

Reynolds, who plays soccer, basketball and lacrosse, expressed his desire to join the board to learn more about decision-making processes and further educate himself on how the school operates, Robinson said. He plans to pursue a career as a pilot in the Navy or Air Force after graduation.

Superintendent Christian Elkington provided an update on the district newsletter, which has recently been restarted. “We’re looking forward to people stopping in and seeing the superintendent’s office in another week,” he said.

Elkington addressed concerns about educators’ roles in facilitating discussions of current events in the classroom. “Our job as educators is to give students age-appropriate opportunities to discuss issues and debate them, but not to share our own opinions as staff. We appreciate the community’s support in making sure our students can engage thoughtfully in these discussions.”

Robinson invited directors to share any good news stories, prompting Assistant Superintendent Monique Poulin to discuss the upcoming professional development day. “It hasn’t happened yet, but it will be happening Friday,” Poulin said.

“Students have the day off for a long weekend and we’ll be providing professional development for all staff members across the district,” Poulin said. “We’ve worked diligently to differentiate for the different populations of employees, including bus drivers, custodians, ed techs, and administrative assistants. It’s a lot of moving parts, but we feel the day is well crafted and designed. We’re looking forward to the new learning that will take place.”

Elkington also praised the success of homecoming week, noting the involvement of alumni. “Homecoming week went very well,” he said. “They got more input on trying different activities and opportunities for students to be involved. There were lots of events, and I attended the football game. They also honored the 50th anniversary of the first football state championship, with about 12 to 15 members of that team attending, and some alumni cheerleaders came back to cheer at halftime. It was a great event, even though the game didn’t go as we would have liked. The sportsmanship, though, was very positive, and I want to thank everyone who attended.”

Elkington also recognized the efforts of staff working in the district’s day treatment programs. “These staff members work with students who have more needs and difficulties,” he said. “It’s extremely difficult work, but it’s also very rewarding. They’re committed to supporting both students and their families, even during challenging times. I’ve been quite impressed by the spirit and dedication they show. They’re doing it for the right reasons, and I just want to thank them for their continued efforts.”

The next board of directors meeting is Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m.