The Old Rochester Regional School Committee voted to pay up to 17 days for staff who must go on military leave during the school year.

Currently, Micah Kidney, who has spent 12 years in the National Guard, is the only ORR teacher in the military.

Kidney, a math teacher, missed two weeks last year for training, which he said was higher than average.

Committee members suggested supporting any current and future military members by voting to pay teacher for up to 17 days of their military leave during the school year.

When asked, Kidney said, “I think that would be absolutely fair. It’s not as much for me but for others coming after me. Most soldiers make less on duty than they do in their civilian jobs.”

Committee member Cheryl Hebert said she was thankful to have Kidney in the classroom.

“I think it’s invaluable to have people like Mr. Kidney in our classroom as a role model.”