UPDATE: Residents in Presque Isle are voicing strong concerns over the proposed closure of the nearly 70-year-old Zippel Elementary School, as officials from MSAD 1 revealed new details at a packed informational meeting last night. Over 100 attendees gathered at Presque Isle Middle School, eager to understand the implications of a plan that could reshape the district’s educational landscape starting next academic year.
If approved, grades 2-5 will relocate to Presque Isle Middle School, while grades 7-8 will move to Presque Isle High School. Superintendent Ben Greenlaw confirmed that this consolidation aims to save money and create space for full-day kindergarten and enhanced special education services for students aged 3-5. “Without consolidating, we simply don’t have room in Pine Street Elementary to accommodate these crucial services,” Greenlaw explained, highlighting a significant decline in enrollment of 8% since 2012.
As the Child Development Services program restructures by 2028, districts must adapt or face challenges in meeting these educational needs. Parents expressed frustration over the decision to close Zippel instead of Pine Street, which some consider a smaller, older facility. Greenlaw reasoned that Pine Street’s layout and ample green space make it a more suitable option for younger students.
Concerns about student interactions during transitions between grades were addressed, with Greenlaw showcasing a high school floor plan that separates middle school and high school classrooms. “We will have separate bell schedules, lunch periods, and bathrooms for students,” he assured the audience, emphasizing safety and comfort.
The district also explored another consolidation plan that would have made Presque Isle Middle School the new elementary school, while closing Pine Street. However, retrofitting the high school for such an arrangement would exceed $17 million, making it financially unfeasible. The current plan is expected to cost over $1.3 million in renovations, but MSAD 1 anticipates saving approximately $158,000 annually by closing Zippel—savings that will help fund the long-awaited full-day kindergarten program.
Significant changes will include transforming the Zippel playground into a new parent drop-off area, with playground equipment relocated to Presque Isle Middle School. Greenlaw humorously remarked, “The front circle at Presque Isle High School can easily hold about four cars. It’s not a good plan in terms of drop-off.”
There are still four critical steps before the closure can be finalized. The MSAD 1 Board of Directors will vote on the proposal on March 17, followed by a review from the Maine Department of Education. A public hearing is scheduled for May, culminating in a referendum during the June 9 primary election. Should the referendum pass, the district plans to transfer the aging Zippel property to the city of Presque Isle, allowing for potential redevelopment or demolition.
As the community grapples with these changes, the urgency for clear communication and effective planning is paramount. Residents continue to seek clarity on how these decisions will impact their children’s educational experience, and the district is under pressure to ensure a smooth transition. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
