RSU 57 Community Newsletter

I would like to take this opportunity to provide an important update regarding the ongoing development of the RSU 57 budget for the 2026–2027 school year (FY27). The RSU 57 Board of Directors, led by the Board’s Finance Committee, continues to work diligently to develop a responsible and transparent spending plan that supports our students while remaining mindful of the financial impact on our taxpayers.

The Finance Committee meets each Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM in the East Building on the Massabesic High School campus. These meetings are open to the public, and I strongly encourage residents to attend. Your engagement and understanding of the budget process are essential as we navigate what may be one of the most significant financial challenges our district has faced in recent years.

Over the past five years, property values across our communities have increased dramatically, as determined by the Maine Revenue Service. In many cases, homeowner valuations have nearly doubled. While rising property values may be seen as positive in some respects, they have also resulted in unintended consequences for school funding. As property valuations increase, the State’s school subsidy to RSU 57 declines under the Essential Programs and Services (EPS) funding model. This formula considers both state equalized property valuations and student enrollment.

While property values have surged, our student enrollment has remained relatively flat. Taken together, these factors signal to the State that the local communities within RSU 57 have a greater “ability to pay” for education. As a result, the financial responsibility for educating our students is increasingly shifted to local taxpayers. The State’s share of our EPS funding is projected to decline from approximately 41% to 37% in the coming year.

Because of these challenges, it is critically important that residents remain informed about both the local budget process and current legislative efforts in Augusta that may directly impact our district. One such proposal is LD 2226, An Act to Amend the Essential Programs and Services School Funding Formula. Passage of this legislation could significantly improve the funding outlook for RSU 57 beginning in FY28 (the 2027–2028 school year), with projected increases in annual school funding exceeding $1.2 million.

Given the importance of this issue, I recently provided testimony before the Joint Standing Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs in Augusta. I respectfully encourage taxpayers and community members to consider reaching out to their local and state representatives to express support for this legislation. Ensuring equitable funding for our students is a shared responsibility and a critical investment in the future of our communities.

For your information, my testimony is included below.

“Good Morning Senator Rafferty, Representative Murphy, and Distinguished Members of the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee:

My name is Stephen Marquis, and I serve as Superintendent of Schools for Regional School Unit 57, which serves the communities of Alfred, Limerick, Lyman, Newfield, Shapleigh, and Waterboro in York County.

Today I stand before you speaking in strong support of LD 2226 on behalf of the students, families, and staff of Regional School Unit 57.

RSU 57 ranks 26th out of 30 school districts in York and Cumberland County in per-pupil spending. We are well below the regional and state average and far more comparable to rural districts across Maine than to the wealthy suburban southern districts with which we are often compared.

Our district serves 2,885 students, nearly half of whom — 46 percent — qualify as economically disadvantaged. Our current total per-pupil spending in RSU 57 is approximately 43 percent below that of a regional peer district where just 8.4 percent of students are economically disadvantaged. This represents a gap of nearly $7,700 per child, per year, in favor of the district with significantly lower poverty rates — a district that also receives a greater state subsidy per student than RSU 57.

The communities of RSU 57 are working communities. They do not have large commercial tax bases or high-value oceanfront property. Yet, because of how the EPS formula calculates local ability to pay, the families in these towns shoulder the majority of the cost of their children’s education. This burden falls directly on property owners — many of whom are the same working families whose children qualify for free and reduced-price meals in our schools.

The formula asks these communities to contribute like wealthy towns while denying their children access to the same level of educational support. Districts that spend more per pupil do so not simply because of local leadership or commitment, but because the funding formula and their local resources provide them with significantly greater financial capacity.

I have participated in conversations about this formula for many years with colleagues across the state. The frustration is consistent, and it is real.

Without LD 2226, students in districts like RSU 57 will continue to wait — waiting while children in communities with greater wealth and lower poverty rates receive higher levels of state and local investment. This reality is reflected in the programs we cannot offer and the specialists we cannot hire.

Students in many Maine communities are not waiting because they matter less. They are waiting because the formula has not yet caught up to what they deserve.

I urge this committee to move LD 2226 forward with the understanding that the quality of a child’s education in Maine should not be determined by the zip code in which they live.

Thank you for your time and your commitment to getting this right.”

Thank you for your continued support of our schools and for your commitment to staying informed and engaged in this important work. Together, we can ensure that RSU 57 remains focused on providing high-quality educational opportunities for every student while advocating for fair and equitable school funding across Maine.

Sincerely,

Stephen Marquis
Superintendent of Schools
Regional School Unit 57

In the halls of our RSU 57 schools, you’ll find more than just educators and students; you’ll find the dedicated faces of our School Resource Officers (SROs). While they wear a uniform, their daily impact on our district goes far beyond traditional law enforcement. We are proud to recognize Deputy Matthew Cummer and Deputy Robert Pellerin for their commitment to our students’ success and safety.

Our deputies work as a team to support students at every stage of their journey:

• Deputy Cummer is a mainstay at Massabesic High School, where he builds rapport with our older students, offering a steady hand and a listening ear as they navigate the challenges of young adulthood.

• Deputy Pellerin brings his energy to Massabesic Middle School and our Elementary schools. Whether he’s visiting a classroom at Lyman or walking the halls at MMS, he focuses on building a foundation of trust with our youngest learners.

Beyond their primary role of keeping our buildings secure, Deputy Cummer and Deputy Pellerin are active members of our school community. You’ll often find them in the classroom sharing their expertise on safety and the law, or in the hallways checking in with students to offer a word of encouragement.

Their focus is on building relationships and solving problems through conversation and mentorship. By being approachable and empathetic, they ensure that our students see law enforcement as a resource and a vital part of their support system.

Whether they are cheering from the sidelines at a Mustangs game or ensuring a calm and orderly dismissal, our deputies are committed to making RSU 57 a place where every student feels seen and safe.

Please join us in thanking Deputy Cummer and Deputy Pellerin for their dedication, their patience, and their heart. We are incredibly lucky to have them on our team!

In the halls of our RSU 57 schools, you’ll find more than just educators and students; you’ll find the dedicated faces of our School Social Workers. While they often work behind the scenes, their daily impact on our district goes far beyond traditional support. We are proud to recognize our social work team for their unwavering commitment to our students’ emotional well-being and success.

Across the District, our social workers are a mainstay in our buildings, supporting students at every stage of their journey. They build rapport with students of all ages, offering a steady hand and a listening ear as they navigate the challenges of growing up. Whether they are visiting a classroom to lead a lesson or connecting with students in common areas, they focus on building a foundation of trust and resilience with every learner.

At RSU 57, our social workers are the heart of our "Culture of Care." They do so much more than provide support from behind a desk; you’ll often find them co-teaching in the classroom, sharing vital social-emotional skills, or offering a word of encouragement during a busy transition. By being a visible, constant presence, they ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and supported throughout the school day.

Their focus is on building relationships and solving problems through mentorship and conversation. By being approachable and empathetic, they ensure that our students see our schools as a place of belonging. Whether they are connecting families to essential community resources or ensuring a student feels safe during a difficult day, our social workers are committed to making RSU 57 a place where every learner can flourish.

Please join us in thanking our School Social Workers for their dedication, their patience, and their heart. We are incredibly lucky to have them on our team!

The spirit of scientific discovery has officially surged at Massabesic High School (MHS)! This month, our Science Club traded standard lessons for the high-stakes world of competitive inquiry, taking part in the Virtual Maine Science Bowl.

Our young scientists didn't just study theories; they dove headfirst into the fascinating world of biology, chemistry, and physics. This competition does more than just test memory; it brings the STEM curriculum to life by emphasizing the vital role that quick thinking and collaboration play in solving the mysteries of our world.

The high point of the event arrived on February 28, as our team of four dedicated students faced off against 10 elite teams from across Maine. Bringing a personal touch to every round, the MHS group displayed incredible focus and teamwork, winning matches against schools from all over the state. Their momentum was undeniable, at the midpoint of the quarterfinals, the Mustangs were even holding the lead!

This hands-on experience brought their learning to life and sparked incredible enthusiasm across the club. The team, Brielle Densmore, Chase Morin, Caeleigh Moulton, and Jack Lessard, represented MHS with pride. They ultimately moving all the way to the quarterfinals and securing a tie for 5th place overall.

Watching the students work together, it was clear they weren’t just answering questions; they were building a lifelong connection to the world of science and innovation. We are so proud of the curiosity and grit these MHS scientists are showing for their field.

The spirit of the performing arts has officially taken center stage at Massabesic High School (MHS)! During this Spring performance, the Mustang Theatre troupe traded standard rehearsals for a deep dive into the dramatic and the mysterious, culminating in a powerful production of Murder Box by Reid Conrad at the Regional One-Act Festival.

Our young performers and technicians didn’t just memorize lines or move props; they dove headfirst into the fascinating world of character development and stagecraft. This experience does more than just teach acting; it brings the arts to life by emphasizing the vital role that collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect play in our school community.

The high point of the season arrived at Noble High School, where the cast and crew’s dedication was on full display both onstage and behind the scenes. While the actors commanded the spotlight, the world of Murder Box was truly built from the wings out. The success at the festival was a testament to the dedicated stage crew and technical team who mastered the intricate "dance" of a competition-grade production. From the precision of the lighting cues that set the eerie mood to the seamless set transitions executed in near-darkness, our student technicians proved that every role is vital to the story.

Adding to the excitement, three of our talented students received prestigious Festival All-Cast Awards in recognition of their outstanding individual performances by Lydia DalPra, Ben Stevens and Noah Paige

The success of the festival was a true community effort. We are incredibly grateful for the support of chaperone Kristen DalPra, as well as the many parents, families, and friends who traveled to cheer on the group.

Watching the cast and crew work in perfect harmony, it was clear they weren’t just staging a play; they were building a lifelong connection to the arts and a supportive, passionate theatre family. We look forward to seeing this program continue to grow and create meaningful work together.

The spirit of historical inquiry has officially taken flight at Massabesic Middle School (MMS)! This month, our classrooms transformed into hubs of deep research and creative design as students traded standard lessons for the "Revolution, Reaction, and Reform" world of National History Day.

Our young historians moved beyond just reading about the past; they immersed themselves in the narratives that shaped our world. This curriculum does more than just list dates; it breathes life into history by highlighting how transformative ideas and social evolutions drive our global journey.

The journey began in early January, as 40 dedicated students participated in an extended learning opportunity during their RTL blocks. For nearly two months, these scholars dedicated three days a week to intensive research, culminating in 12 distinct projects. From the "Fashion Revolution of the 1920s" and the "Space Race" to the "Bolshevik Revolution" and "Revolutions in Ski Equipment," the diversity of topics sparked incredible curiosity and enthusiasm across the entire school.

The high point of the unit arrived on Saturday, March 7, at the Southern Maine Regionals. All five MMS students who chose to compete were selected as finalists to move on to the Maine State National History Day at the University of Maine, Orono!

Our State finalists include Saydee Libby and Quinn Bateson (7th Grade), who captivated judges with their exhibit, "How Taylor Swift Revolutionized the Music Industry." Eloise Estes, Abigail Rinaldi, and Marion Worthington (6th Grade), brought a personal touch to the "Fight for Equal Pay" through their immersive exhibit.

This hands-on experience brought their learning to life, connecting daily research to a real-world stage alongside peers from across Southern Maine. Watching the students present their work, it was clear they weren’t just building exhibits—they were building a lifelong connection to the world around them.

We are all eagerly awaiting Saturday, May 2, when our finalists head to Orono to represent our district. We are so proud of the curiosity and care these MMS historians are showing for the stories that define our heritage!

The talent was undeniable and the precision was on full display as the Massabesic Middle School 8th Grade Jazz Band delivered a standout performance at the District 1 MMEA Jazz Festival on February 11.

The ensemble earned the highest possible rating of “I,” finishing with an impressive overall score of 91. This stellar performance has officially punched their ticket to the State Level competition later this year! Reaching the state stage is a significant milestone, representing months of disciplined rehearsals and a deep commitment to musical excellence from every student in the room.

In a rare and remarkable feat, the judges also recognized the individual artistry of our musicians. Every single student who performed a solo was awarded an individual “I” rating—a testament to the depth of talent within this group.

Congratulations to our award-winning soloists:

• Gavin Price

• Langley Boemmels

• Tim Chaplin

• Harrison Dutton

• Rhaelynn Bearfield

• Freja Miller

• Grayson Goodwin

• Jaaden Thompson

• Sophie Cessario

Please join us in celebrating these students for the dedication and "Mustang Pride" they brought to the stage. We look forward to cheering them on as they represent RSU 57 at the State competition!

The spirit of Maine’s great outdoors has officially trekked into the classrooms of Shapleigh Memorial School! The Pre-K wing underwent a rugged transformation, trading standard lessons for a "wild journey" through the Maine woods, thanks to an immersive visit that brought the Pre-K For Me curriculum to life.

Our youngest learners didn’t just look at pictures of nature; they dove headfirst into the fascinating world of Maine’s wildlife. Guided by the expertise of Registered Maine Guide Jake Rackliff, students were captivated by the "Skins and Skulls" program. This hands-on workshop turned the classroom into a tactile museum of the forest, where explorers got a "grip" on the wonders of our local ecosystem—from the towering, impressive antlers of a moose to the soft, velvety winter fur of a mink.

The high point of the adventure arrived when the class traded their desks for boots! Taking their curiosity outdoors, these tiny "nature detectives" trekked into the fresh snow to uncover a hidden world of activity. Students were wide-eyed as they identified the intricate patterns of tracks crisscrossing the school grounds, connecting their indoor lessons to the real-world movements of the animals sharing our Maine backyard.

This interactive experience did more than just teach biology; it sparked incredible curiosity and enthusiasm across the entire grade level. By touching the furs and following the tracks, our students weren't just learning about animals—they were building a lifelong connection to the environment and a sense of stewardship for the world around them.

As the snow melts and we head into spring, we look forward to seeing how these young explorers continue to apply their "detective" skills to the changing seasons. It is clear that by bringing the woods to the classroom, we are helping our students find their own place within the Maine landscape.

The library at Shapleigh Memorial School (SMS) has transformed into a hub of mentorship and imagination this month as the Reading Buddies program officially took flight. This heart-warming initiative brings together the school’s oldest and youngest students, pairing fifth-grade learners with kindergarteners for dedicated storytime sessions. While the primary goal is to share a good book, the impact on our school culture goes far beyond the final page.

For our kindergarteners, having a "big kid" role model makes literacy feel like an exciting adventure. At the same time, the program serves as a practical lesson in leadership and responsibility for our fifth graders. By stepping into this mentorship role, these older students are gaining the poise and confidence that define a true Mustang leader.

This collaboration does more than just boost literacy skills; it intentionally breaks down "grade-level silos" to create a more cohesive and supportive school atmosphere. In a low-pressure environment, our younger students practice essential listening skills while our seniors-of-the-building learn the value of giving back to their school community.

As the pages continue to turn, the smiles in the SMS library prove that some of the best teachers in the district are the students themselves. We are incredibly proud of the empathy and dedication these Reading Buddies show one another every week!

The spirit of international competition has officially arrived at Lyman Elementary School! This month, the gymnasium has undergone a spectacular transformation, trading traditional drills for the thrill of the Olympic Games, thanks to the creative vision of PE teacher Mrs. Tullis.

Mrs. Tullis has designed a series of Olympic-themed stations that turn physical education into a global journey. Rather than just going through standard exercises, students are stepping into the shoes of world-class athletes. This immersive curriculum does more than just sharpen motor skills and coordination; it brings the "Olympic Spirit" to life by emphasizing the core values of sportsmanship and perseverance.

From precision-based challenges to simulated track and field events, students are exploring a variety of sports while learning about the rich history and traditions of the Games. This high-energy environment fosters teamwork and allows our youngest athletes to connect their physical health to a broader appreciation for the world around them.

Watching the students engage with these stations, it’s clear that they aren't just learning a new game, they are learning how to dream big. Whether they are "crossing the finish line" or mastering a new skill, the enthusiasm in the gym is a testament to the power of creative teaching and the dedication of our staff.

Way to go, Lyman athletes! We are proud of the heart and hustle you bring to the "podium" every day.

The spirit of wildlife conservation has officially taken flight at Waterboro Elementary School (WES)! WES kindergarten classrooms have undergone a feathered transformation, trading standard lessons for the wonders of the nocturnal world, thanks to the immersive “K for Me” owl unit.

Our young learners didn't just read about nature; they dove headfirst into the fascinating world of owl habitats and behaviors. This curriculum does more than just teach biology; it brings the local ecosystem to life by emphasizing the vital role these majestic birds play in our own Maine backyard.

The high point of the unit arrived when Assistant Principal Mr. Stinson turned the classrooms into a hands-on workshop. Bringing a personal touch to the lesson, Mr. Stinson shared a handcrafted nesting box he built himself. Students were captivated as they learned how local species, particularly the Eastern Screech Owl, rely on these safe havens to rest and raise their young.

Adding to the excitement, every kindergarten student had the opportunity to help assemble the nesting box. This hands-on experience brought their learning to life and sparked incredible curiosity and enthusiasm across the entire grade level. This interactive project transformed the classroom into a center for environmental stewardship, connecting daily lessons to a real-world conservation effort right on campus. Watching the students work together, it was clear they weren’t just building a box, they were building a lifelong connection to the world around them.

We are counting down the days until the official installation this March! We are all eagerly awaiting our first "tenants" and hope an Eastern Screech Owl family will soon call WES home.

Way to go, WES conservationists! We are so proud of the curiosity and care you are showing for our local wildlife.

BusRight got an update! You can now find all your real-time bus alerts in the new Notifications Center. Simply click the bell icon on the home screen to see your latest updates and notification history.

How Notifications Work

When a bus route is delayed or cancelled, we send a push notification via the BusRight app to your mobile device. This will appear as a banner or a message on your phone’s lock screen. Please note that BusRight does not send text messages (SMS).

When you tap on the notification, it will open the BusRight mobile app and bring you to the Notifications Center to read the full message. Messages will continue to be sent to parent emails as a secondary notification method.

Don’t have the app yet?

At RSU 57, we believe that for a student to succeed in the classroom, their basic needs must be met first. While many challenges students face, such as housing instability, food insecurity, or gaps in basic necessities that often go unseen, they can deeply impact a child's focus, attendance, and overall well-being.

That is why we are proud to champion the Community Support Initiative, a program dedicated to helping local students in need with care, compassion, and dignity.

How We Help

Through your generous donations, we provide essential items directly to students who may need a little extra help. To ensure every student feels supported and safe, all items are distributed discreetly and respectfully through the district's Student Support Team. No personal information is ever shared; our sole focus is maintaining the privacy and dignity of our students.

Items Currently Needed

If you would like to contribute, we are currently seeking the following shelf-stable and personal care items:

• Easy Meals: Instant ramen, Easy Mac cups, microwaveable soup, and shelf-stable pasta meals (no glass jars, please).

• Shelf-Stable Snacks: Granola bars, crackers, fruit pouches, trail mix, and beef jerky.

• Personal Care: Toothpaste, deodorant, body wash, feminine hygiene products, and face wipes.

• New Clothing: New underwear in all sizes, from children's XS to adult XXL.

Get Involved

Together, we can make a meaningful difference across our community. For a full list of current needs, you can scan the QR code.

For more information, please contact: Megan Wakefield 207-247-3221 ext. 2309 or meganwakefield@rsu57.org.

Thank you for your continued support of our Mustangs!

Regional School Unit No. 57 is excited to announce that kindergarten registration for the 2026/2027 school year is officially open as of Monday, March 9, 2026. If you have a little learner ready to start their educational journey, now is the time to begin the enrollment process.

Eligibility and Deadlines

To be eligible for kindergarten, children must be 5 years old by October 15, 2026.

Parents and guardians are asked to complete the online registration process by April 17, 2026. Please note that enrollment is only considered complete once all required documents have been provided and a registration meeting has taken place.

How to Register

The registration process is handled online. Please visit rsu57.org/page/registration to get started.

• Existing Families: If you already have a student in the district, please use your existing ParentVue account to register your new kindergartner.

• Current Pre-K Students: If your child is currently enrolled in an RSU 57 Pre-K program, you do not need to register them. They will be automatically enrolled for the upcoming kindergarten school year.

Required Documentation

As part of the registration process, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Original Birth Certificate

• Immunization Records

• Court-issued Custody Paperwork (if applicable)

• Proof of Residency: This must be a current document showing your physical address, such as a mortgage statement, signed lease agreement, purchase and sales agreement, or a recent real estate tax bill.

• Note: If you are living with someone else in the district or lack a formal lease, you must provide a copy of their proof of residency along with a signed letter stating that you reside at that address.

Support and Questions

• Technical Assistance: For help with the online portal, please email parentvue@rsu57.org.

• General Inquiries: For all other questions regarding the upcoming school year, please contact your local community school.

There is a vibrant season of learning and growth ahead at Massabesic Adult and Community Education! Whether you are looking to advance your career, support your child’s education, or simply find a new hobby, our upcoming schedule has something for everyone in the RSU 57 community.

Here is a look at the exciting programs heading your way.

Youth Adventures & Kids' Classes

Keep the younger learners engaged with these creative and interactive sessions:

• LEGO Robotics (Ages 9-12): Mar. 19th, 4:00 – 7:00 PM

• Mr. Drew and his Animals too!: Apr. 22nd, 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM

Professional Growth: Substitute Teacher Training

Looking to make a difference in our schools? Join Adam Goad on Monday, March 23rd (6:00 – 7:30 PM) at the MHS East Building. Learn the ins and outs of substitute teaching and apply for a position right at the session. Bonus: Completion of this free training adds an additional $5 per day to your pay!

Spring Driver Education

Spring registration is now open for our comprehensive Driver Education program. Sessions run Mondays through Thursdays, 2:00 – 4:00 PM at the MHS East Building.

• Upcoming Start Dates: 3/30, 5/5, and 7/6.

How to Register

Space for many of these programs is limited! You can sign up for one or all sessions by:

• Visiting: massabesic.coursestorm.com

• Calling: 207-247-2022

Community Clubs & Wellness

Join us at Massabesic High School - East Building for our free weekly community clubs! Whether you want to get your steps in during Indoor Walking (Mon-Thu at 4 PM), test your hand at Cards Club (Mondays, 4:00–5:30 PM), or get creative at Craft Club (Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 PM), there is something for everyone. All programs are free and drop-in friendly—no registration required!

We look forward to seeing you there and growing together as a community!

March 17, 2026: Finance Committee @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

March 23, 2026: Budget Review Session for the Public @ 6:30pm - MHS East Training Center

March 24, 2026: Finance Committee @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

March 25, 2026: School Board Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

March 25, 2026: Early Dismissal Day

March 31, 2026: Finance Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

April 1, 2026: Policy Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

"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