RSU 40 board nixes motion to financially support Olympiads

An emotional Madelon Kelly, coach of the Medomak Middle School Science Olympiad Team, addressed members of the Regional School Unit 40 Board April 4.

"It is an honor to teach in this district," Kelly began, as she then presented her first place Science Olympiad Team who sought permission to attend the nationals in Ohio next month.

It was voted to allow the team to participate, however a motion by board member Lynda Letteney to have the board support the team with $1,000 donation was nixed.

Board member Gail Hawes said that because of the state of the current budget she was not in favor of the motion.

"I would personally make a donation, however," Hawes said, as did several other board members.

The teachers' union in conjunction with a fund from the Medomak Valley Educational Association offered $1,000 toward the Olympiads' trip.

RSU 40 teachers are still without a contract and issued a "work to rule" order at the meeting.

"I can't stop doing this. These kids have worked too hard," said Kelly, who volunteers her time to coach the team.

"The other teachers have been very respectful," Kelly said of the teachers understanding that she would continue to coach the team despite the "work to rule".

The team placed first in the state championships last month, and need to raise $15,000 for their trip to the nationals in May.

To make a donations, contact Jenny Brooks at Medomak Middle School at 832-5028. Checks should be made payable to MMS Science Olympiad Team.

Courier Publications reporter Beth A. Birmingham can be reached at 594-4401 ext. 125 or by email at bbirmingham@courierpublicationsllc.com.

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