RSU 57 Community Newsletter
August 27, 2026
Message from the Superintendent
Dear RSU 57 Community,
As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to all of our students, families, and staff—both new and returning. Whether you're joining us for the first time or have been part of our district for decades, we are thrilled to have you with us.
We are especially excited to invite families to our district-wide Open Houses, today, Thursday, August 27. These events are a wonderful opportunity to meet teachers and staff, explore classrooms, and get ready for a successful year. We encourage all families to attend their school’s Open House and take advantage of this opportunity to connect and engage before the first day of school.
Students throughout the district will have a staggered start to help ensure a smoother transition and allow for more focused support for our students. Grades 1–9 (including SRTC and BRCOT) will begin school Monday, August 31. All remaining grades start Tuesday, September 1.
Guided by the RSU 57 Strategic Plan, our mission remains focused on providing meaningful, authentic learning experiences for every student, every day. We are deeply grateful for the continued support, trust, and partnership of our families and community—together, we make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.
Thank you for your continued partnership and belief in our shared vision.
Here’s to a fantastic school year!
Warmly,
Dr. Stephen Marquis
Superintendent of Schools - RSU 57
School Open House
We are excited to welcome families to our annual Open Houses on Thursday, August 27, 2026! This is a great opportunity to visit your child’s school, meet teachers and staff, explore classrooms, and get ready for a fantastic school year ahead.
Here are the scheduled Open House times for each school:
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5:00 PM – Waterboro Elementary School
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5:00 PM – Shapleigh Memorial School
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5:00 PM – Lyman Elementary School
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5:00 PM – Line Elementary School
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5:00 PM – Alfred Elementary School (AES)
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5:30 PM – Massabesic Middle School (MMS)
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6:00 PM – Massabesic High School (MHS)
We encourage all families to attend their respective school’s Open House to meet staff, ask questions, and get familiar with the school environment before the first day of classes. Whether you’re new to the district or returning, this event is a wonderful way to kick off the new school year.
We look forward to seeing you there!
First Day of School for the 2026-27 School Year
As we prepare for another exciting school year at RSU 57, please take note of the first day of school schedule for all grade levels:
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Monday, August 31, 2026 — First day of school for students in Grades 1 through 9, including those attending the Southern Regional Technical Center (SRTC) and Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT).
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Tuesday, September 1, 2026 — All grades will be in session, including all students in Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Grades 10 through 12.
This staggered start helps ensure a smooth transition and allows staff to provide focused attention to each group of students.
We look forward to welcoming all students back to our campuses and beginning a year full of learning, growth, and achievement. Be sure to mark your calendars!
2026-2027 School Year Calendar
Dates to Remember
August 27, 2026: Open House for all schools
August 31, 2026: First Day of School for Grade 1-9 and SRTC/BRCOT
September 1, 2026: First Day of School for remaining classes (Pre-K/Kindergarten, Grades 10-12)
September 4, 2026: Holiday Recess
September 7, 2026: District Closed - Labor Day
September 8, 2026: Finance Committee @ 6:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 9, 2026: Early Release Day
September 9, 2026: School Board Meeting @ 6:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 16, 2026: Human Resources Committee @ 6:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 22, 2026: Policy Committee @ 5:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 22, 2026: Finance Committee @ 6:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 23, 2026: School Board Meeting @ 6:00pm - Massabesic East Training Room
September 23, 2026: Early Release Day
Stay in Touch...
"Preparing students for success in an ever-changing world."
Phone: 207-247-3221
Website: https://www.rsu57.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rsu57/
Central Office: 86 West Road, Waterboro, ME, USA