Rockland School Committee Approves New Daycare Contract
ROCKLAND - July 30 - The Rockland School Committee has unanimously approved a new daycare contract, wrapping up a three-year contract. The decision came during their July 30, 2025 meeting.
Superintendent Dr. Alan Cron highlighted the unique nature of the school-run daycare, saying, "It's not common for towns to have daycare under the school system, but it's a great service. We're happy to support it, especially since it mainly serves Rockland teachers, firefighters, police, and town employees."
The new contract includes a 2.5% yearly salary increase over its three-year term. It also addresses parental leave and tweaks professional development schedules.
Assistant Superintendent Jane Hackett explained a key change: "There will be one day a year that the daycare is closed just before the beginning of school, so the full staff can participate in full professional development."
Dr. Cron emphasized the importance of this training, stating, "Well-organized professional development makes the daycare safer and more effective. We believe the daycare is in the best shape it's ever been."
Another committee member, Michele Bissonnette, expressed her approval of the contract, calling it "very fair" and "well done."
The meeting also took a moment to honor Jane Bowles, a longtime Rockland Public Schools teacher who recently passed away. Bissonnette remembered her as "the epitome of class, kindness, and dedication," noting Bowles' significant contributions to the Rockland community during the 1980s and early 1990s.