Current Status
The Board has approved a separation agreement with Superintendent Matheney, effective August 8, 2025. Dr. George Entwistle has been unanimously appointed as the Interim Superintendent for the 2025-2026 school year.
Overview
- On July 14, 2025, the Board approved a separation agreement with Superintendent Matheney and appointed Dr. George Entwistle as the Interim Superintendent for the 2025-2026 school year.
- In his final report on July 14, 2025, Superintendent Matheney highlighted district achievements and warned of future challenges like potential funding cuts and the economic impact of AI.
- On June 18, 2025, the Board discussed the superintendent transition process, emphasizing the need for stability and flexibility with the interim's term length.
Perspectives
Board
- Unanimously appointed Dr. George Entwistle as Interim Superintendent.
- Thanked Superintendent Matheney for his service and focus on DEIA.
- Emphasized the need for stability and flexibility to minimize disruption during the transition.
Administration
- Superintendent Matheney's final report noted achievements in SAT scores and reduced chronic absenteeism.
- Warned of future challenges including federal funding cuts, gun violence, and AI.
Key Resolutions & Votes
| Date | Motion | Result |
|---|---|---|
| July 14, 2025 | Consideration and action to approve the separation agreement between the board and Timney superintendent of schools, as discussed in executive session effective August 8th, 2025, and that the board authorized the board chair to execute the agreement on behalf of the board. | Passed |
| July 14, 2025 | Consideration and action to appoint George Entwistle as interim superintendent of schools for a term, beginning on August 6th, 2025, and ending on June 30th, 2026, subject to the terms and conditions of the employment agreement, as discussed in executive session. | Passed |
Meeting History
July 14, 2025
July 14, 2025 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Superintendent Transition
The Board approved a separation agreement with Superintendent Matheney, effective August 8, 2025, and thanked him for his service and focus on DEIA. Dr. George Entwistle, a South Portland resident with extensive superintendent experience, was unanimously appointed as the Interim Superintendent for the 2025-2026 school year.
Superintendent's Final Report
In his final report, Superintendent Matheney highlighted district achievements, including SAT scores exceeding the national average and a 10% reduction in chronic absenteeism. He also warned of future challenges, such as potential federal funding cuts, the ongoing threat of gun violence, and the economic disruption of AI.
June 18, 2025
June 18, 2025 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Leadership Transition Planning
Board members discussed the process for the superintendent transition, emphasizing the need for stability and flexibility. They agreed to keep options open for the interim's term length to minimize disruption to the district during the school year.