ROCKLAND — The first meeting of Rockland’s newly formed Education Committee formed its mission March 16, when its members convened for 90 minutes at City Hall.

The committee, consisting of Rockland residents Dan Bookham, John Jeffers, Nancy Jeffers, Adam Ackor, Sarah Woodman, Chelsea Avirett, Rebecca Albright, Doug Curtis and Helen Plourd, agreed that it will work to: “Find the most responsible model that serves the educational needs of our children and community while adhering to financial responsibility.  We will collectively advocate engagement to review a full range of models and make a recommendation(s).”

The committee discussed the need to gather material in advance of its next meeting, scheduled for March 30, 6 to 9 p.m., at Rockland City Hall. 

“It is extremely important to note that this committee and its members, although diverse and with varying views, all agree that communication and engagement will create the necessary bridge between the citizens, city and RSU 13 School Board,” according to an email from Rockland City Councilor Will Clayton, who is liaison to the committee.

Rockland created its Education Committee in January following Council discussion, and public referendums that appeared before voters in November. Those referendums asked voters if they wanted to withdraw from RSU 13 (defeated), and if they wanted to investigate educational opportunities (passed).

The Council subsequently established the committee, and it is now at work, with the goal of making recommendations for the city.