RSU 21 Community News 9-18-26
Message from the Superintendent
Full Speed Ahead
Dear RSU 21 Community,
A few weeks into the school year, and it’s safe to say we’re officially in full swing here at RSU 21!
Routines are taking shape, classrooms are buzzing, students are learning, and our teachers and staff are doing what they do best.
Across the district, there’s been plenty happening this week. MSK students tackled their fall NWEA assessments, smiled for Picture Day, got moving during the Superwalk, and 7th and 8th graders are wrapping up the week with a dance. Our student-athletes have been busy representing RSU 21 in soccer, football, field hockey, volleyball, cross country, tennis, and golf. At KCS, students and staff came together for another Friday Morning Meeting.
These are the weeks when the rhythm of a new school year really starts to settle in. The routines are established, the kids are learning, the teachers are teaching, and to top it all off, it’s a gorgeous day outside.
Enjoy the weekend, and keep up the great work.
Best,
Martin Grimm
Community Spotlight
Guiding the Way
This week, we're headed to KHS to give a guidance counselor their flowers. Here's what our submitter had to say in regards to Ms. McClusky:
Linda consistently goes above and beyond what is expected of her. She is incredibly thorough and takes great pride in everything she does. Just as importantly, Linda is always upbeat, positive, and a pleasure to work with. Her exceptional work ethic, dedication, and positive attitude are truly appreciated. We are so fortunate to have Linda as part of our RSU 21 family!
Having worked with Linda, I can concur that she is the best of us! Thank you, Ms. McClusky.
*In this segment, The RSU 21 Community News will be highlighting anyone in our community (employee, student, or volunteer) that YOU think has done or consistently does something spectacular. To make a submission, please fill out this very brief form. *
RSU 21 Highlights
A Message from Transportation Manager Chris Pasciuto
As a reminder, RSU 21 has updated its late bus program for the 2026–2027 school year to improve safety, accountability, and service for students and families.
The three late buses have been consolidated into one districtwide late bus, with centralized stops at familiar community locations. Stops are designated as either Walkable Stops or Meet-the-Bus Stops, where a parent, guardian, or authorized caregiver must be present.
Families can use BusRight to track the bus and view estimated arrival times.
Click here for more information about the change, a route map and how to sign up for the late bus.
Community Events and Flyers
RSU 21 Athletics
Live Stream the games!
Shop KHS gear
GO RAMS!
A Message From Transportation Manager, Chris Pasciuto
Bus Stop Safety Reminders
The safety of our students is our highest priority. Every morning and afternoon, the time students spend waiting for, boarding, riding, and exiting the school bus requires care and attention. Throughout the school year, transportation safety trainers and bus drivers regularly teach students safe bus stop behavior and proper road-crossing procedures. We encourage families to review these expectations at home to help reinforce these important safety habits.
One of the most important lessons we teach is that students should never assume a driver can see them. Whether it is the school bus driver or a passing motorist, visibility can be limited. Students should always make eye contact with the bus driver and wait for the driver's signal before approaching or crossing in front of the bus.
Morning Bus Stop Expectations
Be at your assigned BusRight stop approximately five minutes before the scheduled pickup time.
Wear bright or reflective clothing, backpacks, or accessories whenever visibility may be reduced, such as during early mornings, evenings, or poor weather.
Stay a safe distance from the roadway while waiting for the bus.
Do not approach the bus until it has come to a complete stop, the door has opened, and the driver has indicated it is safe to board.
If you must cross the street to board the bus, always wait for the driver's signal before crossing.
Do Not Cross or Approach the bus until the Red Lights have come on
Missed Bus Safety
If a student misses the bus or the bus has already departed the stop, they should never chase after the bus or run alongside a moving bus. A student running beside a moving bus may not be visible to the driver and is at risk of serious injury.
Students should remain at the bus stop and follow their family’s established plan for a missed bus. A bus driver cannot safely stop or allow a student to board while the bus is moving.
Afternoon Bus Stop Expectations
After exiting the bus, walk directly toward home or your designated destination.
Never walk alongside or behind the bus.
If you must cross the street after exiting, walk well in front of the bus and wait for the driver's signal before crossing.
Do not stop to check the mailbox or retrieve items near the roadway immediately after getting off the bus. Wait until the bus has safely departed and you have a clear view of traffic before doing so.
Dropped Items
If a student drops something near the bus, they should never attempt to retrieve it. The bus driver may not be able to see a child in the danger zone around the bus. Students should get the driver's attention immediately and follow the driver's instructions.
Motorists and School Bus Safety
Each year, school buses are illegally passed while students are loading and unloading. These violations put children at serious risk.
Every RSU 21 school bus is equipped with onboard cameras, and we work closely with local law enforcement to investigate motorists who illegally pass a stopped school bus. As our fleet continues to be modernized, upgraded camera systems provide clearer evidence to help identify violators and support enforcement efforts.
A Shared Responsibility
Parents and caregivers play an important role in bus stop safety by modeling safe behavior and reinforcing these expectations with their children.
Remind students that no destination is worth taking a shortcut around a school bus and that they should never assume a driver sees them.
By working together, families and the Transportation Department can help ensure every student arrives at school and returns home safely each day.
Questions??? Call RSU 21 Transportation at 207-985-2622 or email BusTrips@rsu21.net
A Message from Special Services and Human Resources
Dear RSU #21 Families,
We hope this message finds you and your family well.
At RSU #21, we are committed to ensuring that every student receives the support they need to learn, grow, and thrive. To continue meeting the needs of our students, we are currently seeking caring, dependable, and enthusiastic individuals to join our team as Educational Technicians and Substitute Teachers, particularly to support students receiving special education services.
Working in special education is both rewarding and impactful. Our Educational Technicians and substitute teachers play an essential role in helping students achieve academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and functional success while fostering an inclusive learning environment where every child can reach their full potential.
Whether you are looking for a new career, a flexible work schedule, or an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, we encourage you to consider joining the RSU #21 team.
Educational Technician Opportunities
Educational Technicians are integral members of our Special Education team. They work directly with students under the supervision and guidance of the RSU #21 Special Education Department, certified special education teachers, and building administrators to provide instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional support throughout the school day.
No previous experience in special education is required for many positions. RSU #21 provides training, mentorship, and ongoing professional development to ensure Educational Technicians are well-prepared and supported in their roles. We believe in investing in our staff and helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to be successful.
The Maine Department of Education offers three levels of Educational Technician certification:
Educational Technician I – Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of the Maine Department of Education authorization process.
Educational Technician II – Requires at least 60 college credits (or equivalent qualifications recognized by the Maine Department of Education).
Educational Technician III – Requires a minimum of 90 college credits or an associate degree (or higher) that meets Maine Department of Education certification requirements.
If you are interested in becoming an Educational Technician but are unsure whether you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to contact us. We are happy to discuss certification requirements, available pathways, and how RSU #21 can support you through the process.
Substitute Teacher Opportunities
RSU #21 is also seeking substitute teachers to support our schools throughout the year.
To serve as a substitute teacher in Maine, applicants generally must:
Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (minimum requirements vary depending on the substitute authorization).
Meet Maine Department of Education certification or authorization requirements.
Successfully complete the required criminal history record check and fingerprinting process.
Subs for RSU 21 are required to have 2 years of college, absent an extenuating circumstance.
Whether you are available a few days each month or several days each week, substitute teachers play an invaluable role in ensuring continuity of learning and maintaining a positive educational environment for our students.
Join Our Team
As a member of the RSU #21 team, you will:
Make a lasting difference in the lives of children.
Be part of a collaborative and supportive educational community.
Receive training, mentorship, and ongoing professional development.
Work alongside dedicated educators and administrators who are committed to student success.
Help create inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about these opportunities, we encourage you to contact the RSU #21 Human Resources Office or visit the district's employment page to view current openings and begin the application process.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students, schools, and community. We would greatly appreciate your help in sharing these employment opportunities with friends, family members, neighbors, and anyone who may be interested in making a positive impact in the lives of children.
Together, we can continue to build a strong, caring, and inclusive school community where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Warm regards,
HR/Principal/Special Services Director
School Board Calendar
Approved 2026-2027 Instructional Calendar
Helpful Links
Community Resources
1-844-5-SAY-NOW
24/7 Hotline
Maine Crisis Hotline
Call or Text 988 or 1-888-568-1112
General Assistance Support
Kris Fogg
207-604-1394
Wendy Lank
207-985-4201 ext. 113
207-967-4401
Laura Dolce
207-967-0857