The tuition rates Westport Island would pay as an outsider remain in question, as talks continue about a deal to withdraw from Sheepscot Valley Regional School Unit.

The rates could be the same as the state sets or something more, depending on negotiations, said Gerald Bodmer, chairman of the town's withdrawal committee.

Another big unknown is still in play, too, but not for long: Wiscasset's upcoming November vote to stay or go from the district will help shape the plan that reaches Westport Island voters next year.

So far, negotiators for Westport Island and the district are designing the plan as if Wiscasset is staying.

Talks resumed September 16 at Wiscasset High School. Tweaking the possible deal line by line, teams discussed having the district take any Westport Island students who want in; the town would pay tuition as if at least 75 percent of its students choose district schools, even if fewer do.

Currently, 62 of Westport Island's 69 students attend Wiscasset schools, Bodmer said.

Participants added language giving Westport Island students the same rights as ones from member towns. That would let them stick with their chosen schools unless expelled, district team members said.

“I think it just protects your students,” the district committee's chairman MalindaCaron told Westport Island's representatives.

Tentative plans call for a November 2014 vote in Westport Island. Before then, the deal would go to the state education commissioner for a conditional OK. A public hearing would follow; then changes could be made before the commissioner's final nod sends the plan on to the town vote.

Residents decided in 2012 to pursue withdrawal. The district later made cost-sharing changes that are bringing relief to Westport Island, Bodmer said.

“This (new) cost-sharing has been wonderful. The town saves considerably,” he said.

Bodmer declined to predict the impact of that relief on voter sentiment for or against withdrawal.

Negotiations on the withdrawal plan are set to resume at 6:30 p.m. on October 8 at Wiscasset High School.

Susan Johns can be reached at 207-844-4633 or susanjohns@wiscassetnewspaper.com