LIVERMORE FALLS — The RSU 73 board has approved a program of studies for Spruce Mountain High School students that reflects a change to proficiency-based instruction leading to a standards-based diploma.

Principal T.J. Plourde said 186 standards must be mastered by students before they can graduate.

The change to a standards-based diploma from the traditional credits-based system is mandated to begin for the Class of 2018. However, Superintendent Robert Wall applied to the state for an extension to 2020, if needed.

As board members suggested adding such courses as financial literacy and Japanese, or requiring a community service component, Wall said the limited school year and the rates at which different students meet the standards vary.

“There aren’t enough hours in their school career to master all the standards now,” he said.

The freshman class will be the first to begin the new program of studies.

In other matters, the board approved the purchase of a 2011 six-passenger Chrysler van for the special services program at a cost of $22,419. Wall said the funds come from local entitlement money.

They also approved the purchase of two new Bluebird buses at a cost of $82,340 each. All three vehicles were purchased from O’Connor Auto Park in Augusta.

Several part-time staff were hired, including Kellee Murphy as Spruce Mountain Middle School field hockey coach; David Frey as high school junior varsity basketball coach; Jan Kirkland as extended-school-year education technician; Bernadette Bessey as middle school summer school instructor; and Angela Smith as extended-school-year education technician.

The next board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. July 10 at the Cedar Street Central Office. Newly hired Superintendent Kenneth Healey is expected to attend his first board meeting.