RSU 57 Community Newsletter

Dear RSU 57 Community,

As we move through the winter months and look ahead to the 2026–2027 school year, I want to share an important update regarding our district budget planning process.

RSU 57 is currently in the early stages of developing the 2026–2027 school budget. This work is critical to ensuring we continue to meet the academic, social, and operational needs of our students while being thoughtful stewards of taxpayer resources.

District finance meetings will be held every Tuesday evening beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the East Building. These meetings are open to the public, and we strongly encourage members of our community to attend, observe, and engage in this important process.

Your interest, questions, and participation help strengthen our decision-making and support transparency as we plan for the future of RSU 57. We appreciate your continued partnership and involvement in our schools.

Warm regards,

Dr. Stephen D. Marquis

Hello Mustang Nation!

My name is Alex McCormack-Kuhman, and I am very excited to introduce myself as the new Athletic Director for Massabesic Middle and High School. I have already had the opportunity to meet many members of our passionate Massabesic fan base, and I look forward to further integrating myself with the six tremendous communities that make RSU #57 such a special place.

Growing up in southern Maine, I was heavily involved in athletics, cherishing the lessons, relationships, and experiences they provided. Many of my heroes were the coaches and mentors who helped shape my character through positivity and persistent accountability. I have continually strived to serve as that same positive influence in the lives of today’s student-athletes—helping them forge a strong moral compass and promoting growth not only as athletes, but as well-rounded young men and women.

I look forward to an exciting future together, celebrating the personal and collective accomplishments of our students and interscholastic athletic programs.

Go Mustangs!

Alex McCormack-Kuhman, CAA

Athletic Director - RSU #57

As students returned from the holiday break, grades 3–5 at Alfred Elementary School (AES) embraced a heartwarming lesson in kindness and positivity through the book The Gift of Words by Peter Reynolds. The story follows Jerome, a young boy who searches his community for words that inspire and uplift. When he encounters only discouraging messages, he responds by creating a “collector’s tree” where people can contribute positive, encouraging words.

Inspired by Jerome’s example, AES students embarked on their own project, creating a school-wide “positivity tree.” Each student contributed words that motivate, encourage, and bring hope to others. The resulting tree is now proudly displayed for the entire school community, serving as a colorful reminder of the power of words and the impact of small acts of kindness.

Through this activity, students not only practiced creativity and reflection but also experienced firsthand how positivity can grow and spread when shared with others. The AES “collector’s tree” stands as a testament to the students’ commitment to fostering a welcoming, supportive, and uplifting school environment.

On December 16, 2025, Mathletes participated in their first district-wide Math Meet, showcasing teamwork, determination, and problem-solving skills. Students from all five elementary schools competed in Arithmetic, Geometry, and Team Rounds, with both competing and practice teams gaining experience and confidence.

Alfred Elementary took 1st place overall, followed by Waterboro, Lyman, Line, and Shapleigh Memorial. Top individual scorers for each school were: Chandwen Titcomb (Alfred), Cooper Heid (Waterboro), Thomas Charland and Griffin King (Lyman), Brooklyn Rumery (Line), and Jack Legare (Shapleigh). District-wide, the top five scorers were Chandwen Titcomb, Thomas Charland, Cooper Heid, Griffin King, and Coltin Prue (Waterboro).

The Math Meet was a fun and rewarding experience for all, and the district looks forward to upcoming competitions on February 12 at Massabesic High School - East Building, April 1 at Massabesic High School - East Building, and May 5 at the Portland Expo Center.

Congratulations to all our Mathletes!

Massabesic Middle School (MMS) proudly hosted the annual Portland Press Herald/Scripps Howard Spelling Bee on January 12, bringing together talented student spellers for an exciting and memorable competition.

After several intense rounds, the event concluded with a thrilling spelldown between seventh graders Howard Conklin and Olivia Evans. Howard was ultimately declared the school champion, with Olivia earning the runner-up position. Sixth grader Eloise Estes placed third, demonstrating impressive skill and focus throughout the competition.

Students successfully navigated a challenging list of words, including chartreuse, archipelago, and psyche. The competition concluded when the winning word, fiberglass, was correctly spelled following a misspelling of whittled.

Howard Conklin and Olivia Evans will advance to represent MMS at the York County Spelling Bee, to be held at Saco Middle School on Monday, February 9, at 4:00 p.m. Eloise Estes will attend as the alternate.

Congratulations to all of the participants for their hard work and perseverance, and best of luck to our spellers as they continue on to the county level!

As we move into the colder and more challenging months of the school year, RSU 57 wants to ensure that families are aware of the many supports available across the district. A variety of food assistance and outreach programs are in place to help families who may need additional support. Resources are confidential and designed to ensure students have access to nutritious food and are ready to learn.

For more information and to learn about outreach programs offered by our District and Community to support those in need, please visit our Community Resource Page on our website. Families can also access a statewide list of food assistance programs organized by town.

We’re excited to share a wonderful opportunity for families this winter! Black Mountain of Maine is offering FREE season passes to all children in 2nd grade and younger.

Families can register by scanning the QR code on the flyer or by visiting skiblackmountain.org. Once registered, your child will receive a complimentary season pass for the 2025–2026 ski season.

Black Mountain of Maine is located at 39 Glover Road, Rumford, ME, and provides a fun, family-friendly environment for skiers of all levels. This is a great chance for our youngest learners to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the slopes all season long!

Massabesic Adult and Community Education is now accepting registrations for Spring Driver Education. Multiple sessions are available from January through July, offering flexible options for students.

Classes run Mondays–Thursdays, 2:00–4:00 PM at the Massabesic HS East Building.

Register HERE today!