Dear South Portland Community,
The start of a new school year always brings a distinct blend of excitement, energy, and anticipation. Even though I’ve been through the start of school for almost my entire life, that feeling of beginning a new adventure never fades—and I know our students, educators, staff, and families feel the same mixture of enthusiasm and hope as we prepare to open our doors. It’s normal, too, to feel nervous and uncertain about what’s coming. For students and adults, that usually works itself out as we settle into our school routines.
Across the district, our teams have been working tirelessly to ensure a seamless and welcoming start on Day 1. A special note of gratitude goes to our facilities, custodial, and transportation personnel, who have spent the summer preparing our buildings, grounds, and bus routes so that our learning environments are safe, vibrant, and ready for our students.
Here’s an update on some of our major summer projects:
Dyer Elementary School and Skillin Elementary Schools have new entrances with secure vestibules. The facilities team will be working through the weekend to complete the final touches.
The Skillin interior was repainted and the library space is ready for readers.
The middle school field is ready for use.
Fencing at Small Elementary School now provides protection around the vernal pool area and a separate space for our Pre-K students.
Fencing at Brown now provides a separate play area for Pre-K students there.
New ovens were installed at all elementary schools, replacing 25-year-old ovens that had been failing.
New salad bars have been added at Brown, Small and Dyer, expanding fruit and vegetable choices for students.
Elementary Reconfiguration
As we look to the fall, another major project is underway. Our Reconfiguration Steering Committee continues its work deliberating on the optimal elementary configuration and school boundaries for South Portland’s future. To support their work we invite all members of the community to complete this survey, which should only take 10 minutes. The survey will close on Monday September 7th at 5pm. You can also view other upcoming engagement opportunities online here.
Transportation Reminders
During the first days of school, bus pick-up and drop-off times may vary as we fine-tune routes, adjust to student needs, and work through unexpected challenges. Students should arrive 5-10 minutes early to their bus stop to ensure they are present when the bus arrives.
Please also keep in mind that traffic, road construction, and other travel conditions can affect bus travel times.
We appreciate your patience as we get the school year underway. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the transportation office directly or call your child’s school.
Start Date Reminders:
Monday, August 31: First day of school for Grades 1 – 12 (Full day)
Tuesday, September 1: First day of school for Kindergarten with early dismissal for Kindergarten only at 12:40 PM (Full day for other grades)
Wednesday, September 2:
First Day for PreK
Second day of school for Kindergarten with early dismissal for Kindergarten only at 12:40 PM (Full day for other grades)
Thursday, September 3: Full day for all grades
Friday, September 4: Full day for all grades
Monday, September 7: No School – Labor Day
Thank you for your ongoing partnership, trust, and shared dedication to the children of South Portland. Together, I am confident we will make this school year one filled with learning and community connection.
Warm regards,
Angela Atkinson Duina, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
South Portland School Department