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RSU 57 Community Newsletter

April 17, 2026

RSU 57 CommunityNewsletterApril 17, 2026

Message from the Superintendent Message from the Superintendent

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Dear RSU 57 Community,


As we approach the April school break, I want to take a moment to share several important updates and opportunities for engagement across our district. This is a busy and meaningful time of year, and your continued involvement makes a significant difference in the strength of our schools and broader community.



Celebrating Our York County Teacher of the Year Finalists!


During the Regional School Unit 57 School Board meeting held on March 25, 2026, the district paused its administrative agenda to shine a spotlight on the heart of our community: its educators. We are thrilled to provide an exciting update on the 2026 York County Teacher of the Year cycle, where RSU 57 continues to lead the way in instructional excellence.


The ceremony followed a preliminary celebration in February, where the Board formally recognized a diverse group of educators nominated by community members, parents, and peers for their exemplary service.


While we began with an impressive list of nominees across the district, the field has narrowed through a rigorous selection process. We are beyond proud to announce that RSU 57 now represents two of the final three candidates for the entire county!


Melissa Brown – Line Elementary


We are ecstatic to share that Melissa Brown has officially moved on from the semi-finalist round and is now a York County Teacher of the Year Finalist! This is no small feat, but Ms. Brown has shone in every stage of a selection process that began with over 680 nominations across the state.


If you’ve ever stepped into her Pre-K room, you know she is the absolute embodiment of student-centered learning. Ms. Brown doesn’t just teach; she tirelessly explores every possible support to help her students thrive and is always the first to call home to celebrate even the smallest wins with families. She has an innate ability to make every student feel completely at home while ensuring their learning is hands-on and engaging. We are incredibly lucky to have her energy and enthusiasm at Line Elementary!


Carla Kelly – Lyman Elementary


We are equally thrilled to announce that Carla Kelly has also been named one of the three finalists for the 2026 York County Teacher of the Year! This prestigious honor is a testament to Carla’s creativity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence, marking her as one of the top three educators in the entire county.


As she moves into the final round of the Maine Teacher of the Year program, we celebrate the profound impact she has made on her students and colleagues alike. Carla’s dedication to her craft creates a classroom environment where students truly excel, and she continues to be a leading voice for educational innovation. We are incredibly honored to have her representing Lyman Elementary and RSU 57!


While we cheer on our finalists in the home stretch, we continue to celebrate the incredible group of educators who were honored this year for their dedication to student success:


  • Alfred Elementary: Kim Rollins

  • Line Elementary: Melissa Brown (Finalist)

  • Lyman Elementary: Carla Kelly (Finalist)

  • Massabesic High School: Marianne Stephenson, Amanda Todd, and Andrew Whitehouse

  • Massabesic Middle School: Michelle Turner (Semi-Finalist), Michael Bryant, Jack Ricker, and Cindy Thorne

  • Shapleigh Memorial: Deb Wintle

  • Waterboro Elementary: Bria Bourque


Our educators are the backbone of this community. To see such a broad list of nominees and to have two of our own move on as finalists reinforces the high standard of education we strive for in RSU 57.


What’s Next? Our finalists will now head into final interviews and professional portfolio reviews before the winner is announced. Please join us in sending Melissa Brown and Carla Kelly a massive congratulations and all the "good vibes" as they represent RSU 57 on the county stage!


Congratulations to all our 2026 nominees and our two finalists—we are all rooting for you!


We are delighted to share a few snapshots from the recent School Board Meeting, where our teachers were officially recognized for their outstanding achievements. While a few of our honorees were unable to attend due to prior commitments, their hard work was felt throughout the room.

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MHS Nominee, Andrew White with Principal Ty Thurlow

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WES Nominee, Bria Bourque with Principal Kerri LeSieur

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Lyman Nominee (and County Finalist) with Principal Cindy Pellerin

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MMS Nominee, Cindy Thorne with Assistant Principal, Amy Troiano

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SMS Nominee Deborah Wintle with Principal, Marisa Penney

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AES Nominee Kimberly Rollins with Lyman Principal, Cindy Pellerin who stepped in for AES Principal, Cathy Poulin

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MHS Nominee, Marianne Stephenson. with MHS Principal, Ty Thurlow

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MMS Nominee, Michelle Turner with Assistant Principal, Amy Troiano

District Budget Meeting – Your Voice Matters


I strongly encourage all families and community members to attend our upcoming District Budget Meeting on Tuesday, May 5th at 7:00 P.M. in the Massabesic Middle School Cafeteria. This meeting is a critical part of our annual budget process.


The finalized budget will then be presented to residents across our six towns for approval at the polls on Tuesday, June 9th.


Your participation ensures that the final budget reflects the values and priorities of our entire community. I hope you will consider joining us for this important evening.



Support Our Student-Athletes Over April Break


While classes pause for April break, many of our Massabesic High School athletic teams will continue their seasons and host contests on our campus.


We invite families and community members to come out and support our student-athletes. Your attendance at these events not only boosts school spirit but also reinforces the sense of community that makes RSU 57 special. Schedules are available on the district website, and we hope to see you there cheering on our teams.


Finally, as we head into April break, I want to wish all of our students, staff, and families a fun, safe, and memorable vacation. Whether you are traveling, spending time outdoors, or simply enjoying a slower pace, I hope the week provides an opportunity to rest, recharge, and reconnect.


Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support of our schools and students.


Sincerely,


Dr. Stephen Marquis, Superintendent

School Community Communication Regarding Substance-Free School Environments School Community Communication Regarding Substance-Free School Environments

Dear Students, Parents/Guardians, and Community Members,


The district is deeply committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and supportive learning environment for all students. This commitment requires a proactive and unified stance against the presence of illegal and harmful substances on our campuses and school transportation. This message serves as an important reminder and reaffirmation of our policies concerning the possession, use, and distribution of all forms of substances, including but not limited to alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, illegal drugs, and misuse of prescription medications.


The Dangers of Substance Use: Substance use poses significant risks to the health, safety, and academic success of our students. These risks include:

  • Health Hazards: Immediate and long-term harm to developing bodies and minds.

  • Safety Risks: Impaired judgment leading to accidents, injury, and increased vulnerability.

  • Academic Impact: Decreased concentration, lower grades, and increased absenteeism.

  • Legal Consequences: Potential involvement with law enforcement and school disciplinary action.


School Policy and Expectations: RSU 57 maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding the possession, use, sale, or distribution of substances on all school property, at school-sponsored activities, and on school-provided transportation. Any student found to be in violation of RSU 57 Policy JICH (Drug & Alcohol Use by Students) will face serious disciplinary action, which may include suspension, expulsion, and referral to law enforcement, regardless of the quantity or type of substance involved. These policies are in place to ensure the well-being of every student and to maintain an orderly learning environment.

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How the Community Can Help: We believe that preventing substance use is a shared responsibility. We ask for the cooperation of our entire community in this vital effort:


  • Parents and Guardians: Please talk to your children about the risks of substance use and the school's strict policies. Monitor their activities and communicate any concerns to school administration or counseling staff.

  • Students: We encourage you to make healthy choices and to report any concerns about substance use or distribution to a trusted adult, teacher, or administrator. Reports can be made confidentially to administration or School Resource Officers.

  • Community Members: Your vigilance is appreciated. If you observe activities that violate our policy on or near school property, please notify the school or local authorities.


Resources and Support: We understand that students may face challenges and pressures. We offer resources for students and families seeking help. Our School Counseling Services are available during school hours. Please contact your student’s School Counselor or administration to schedule an appointment. Thank you for your ongoing partnership in fostering a safe and substance-free environment for our students.


Sincerely,


Dr. Stephen Marquis, Superintendent

Mrs. Kelly Grantham, MMS Principal

Mr. Ty Thurlow, MHS Principal

The Power of Presence: The Professional Impact of Paraprofessionals The Power of Presence: The Professional Impact of Paraprofessionals

Education is a complex engine, and in RSU 57, paraprofessionals are the essential components that keep it moving. While often viewed simply as "extra hands," these skilled practitioners are actually masters of differentiation. They possess the unique ability to tailor curricula in real-time, skillfully meeting the sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs of every student they support.


These professionals serve as a vital backbone of the modern classroom by providing critical instructional guidance. Through targeted interventions in core subjects and the application of behavioral expertise, they help maintain safe, focused learning environments. Their work ensures that the high standards of our district are accessible to all, transforming complex lessons into achievable milestones for our diverse learners.


As tireless advocates, paraprofessionals also bridge communication gaps and build the social confidence students need to engage with their peers. This work provides a unique thread of continuity across grade levels, ensuring that a student’s specific triumphs and challenges are understood throughout their entire educational journey. By fostering these deep connections, they create a sense of belonging that is fundamental to academic success.


Ultimately, the success of RSU 57 lies in the collaborative spirit these professionals bring to work every morning. They are the frontline champions for our learners, fostering an inclusive environment where every child has the support to reach their full potential. Our district is stronger, kinder, and more effective because of their presence; they are a primary reason our students are able to thrive, one breakthrough at a time.

Beyond the Stacks: Honoring the Modern School Librarian Beyond the Stacks: Honoring the Modern School Librarian

Modern school libraries in RSU 57 have evolved from traditional quiet zones into high-tech hubs where librarians serve as expert navigators. In an age of instant information, these professionals teach students the vital skill of media literacy, helping them distinguish credible research from digital misinformation. By guiding learners through academic databases and ethical research practices, they ensure our students graduate with a firm grasp of academic integrity and critical thinking.


Beyond the digital landscape, the heart of the library remains a profound love for stories and the written word. Librarians act as "literary matchmakers," carefully curating diverse collections that ensure every student can find themselves reflected in the pages of a book. This personalized approach to literacy fosters a lifelong passion for reading, turning the library into a sanctuary for imagination and personal discovery.


As essential instructional partners, our librarians do not work in isolation; they collaborate daily with classroom teachers to weave research skills into every subject, from science to the arts. They serve as a bridge between different disciplines, providing resources and pedagogical support that enrich the curriculum. Their expertise ensures that the library is a functional extension of the classroom, where academic theories are put into practice through exploration.


These dedicated professionals are ultimately the curators of curiosity and the guardians of great ideas. They provide the tools our students need to think critically, imagine wildly, and learn independently in an ever-changing world. Our libraries are the most dynamic rooms in the district because of their expertise and passion, serving as the cornerstone of our educational community.

The Heartbeat of Our Classrooms: Celebrating Our Educational Technicians The Heartbeat of Our Classrooms: Celebrating Our Educational Technicians

At the core of every successful classroom in RSU 57 is a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive. Our Educational Technicians, or Ed Techs, are essential partners in the learning process, providing the individualized attention, encouragement, and specialized instruction that make our schools inclusive and vibrant places to learn.


The role of an Ed Tech is as diverse as the students they serve. On any given day, these skilled professionals can be found facilitating small group lessons to reinforce literacy and math concepts or providing one-on-one mentorship to help a student navigate a complex challenge. They play a vital role in supporting social-emotional growth by modeling empathy and patience, all while collaborating closely with teachers to adapt curriculum and ensure every child can access their education.


Beyond the academic support, Ed Techs are often the trusted adults who build deep, lasting bonds with our students. They are the cheering section in the hallways, the calm presence during a difficult morning, and the innovators who find creative ways to spark a student's interest in a new topic. Their presence allows our classrooms to run smoothly and ensures that every student feels seen and supported.


We are incredibly fortunate to have such a compassionate group of Educational Technicians across our district. Their commitment to the RSU 57 mission is evident in the progress our students make every day. Whether they are in a Pre-K classroom helping a child find their cubby or at the High School assisting with complex labs, their impact is immeasurable. Our schools simply wouldn't be the same without them!


The Heartbeat of Our Schools: Honoring Our Administrative Professionals The Heartbeat of Our Schools: Honoring Our Administrative Professionals

In the bustling hallways of our schools and the steady rhythm of our central offices, there is a dedicated group of individuals who keep our entire district in motion. These professionals serve as the essential foundation of our educational community, balancing a mountain of responsibilities with remarkable poise. Whether they are greeting a nervous kindergartner or assisting a veteran teacher, they are the first to provide the stability and support that allow our district to function at its very best.


If you have ever stepped into a school office, you have witnessed these experts in their element. They are masters of multi-tasking who manage intricate schedules, navigate complex student information systems, and ensure that every visitor feels welcomed and every phone call is answered. Their work often happens behind the scenes, yet it touches every aspect of the student experience. By managing the vital logistics and communications that keep a campus running, they create a safe and organized environment where educators can focus on instruction and students can focus on growth.


Beyond the technical tasks and the endless paperwork, these professionals bring an invaluable sense of warmth to our schools. They are often the keepers of school culture, knowing exactly which student needs an encouraging word or which family needs extra guidance through a new process. It is impossible to measure the true value of the comfort they provide; they are the calm in the middle of a busy school day and the bridge that connects our administrators, teachers, and families. Their deep knowledge of our community ensures that no detail is overlooked and no one is left without help.


We want to extend a sincere thank you to every member of our administrative professional team for the dedication you bring to your roles every day. You are the engines that power our progress, and our district simply would not be the same without your organizational expertise and your commitment to our mission. You don’t just work in an office; you help build the supportive atmosphere where our children thrive. We encourage everyone in our community to take a moment to share their gratitude for these incredible individuals who truly manage the heartbeat of our schools.

A Day for Every Staff Member: RSU 57 Launches Inaugural District Wellness Day A Day for Every Staff Member: RSU 57 Launches Inaugural District Wellness Day

On Friday, March 13, 2026, the Massabesic High School campus hosted a landmark event for the RSU 57 community. For the first time, the district dedicated an entire day to the holistic well-being of its workforce, inviting every staff member to step away from their daily routines to focus on personal health. This inaugural Wellness Day fulfilled Focus Area 2 of the District Strategic Plan, emphasizing that a thriving school system begins with a supported and resilient staff.


The success of this endeavor resulted from extensive collaboration across district leadership. Logistical coordination was led by Adam Goad, Director of Massabesic Adult and Community Education (MACE), who curated a schedule intended to help staff support their physical, social, and intellectual wellness. "We hope this day gives you an opportunity to recharge, connect with friends, and learn something new," Goad noted in his welcome to the district. Tiffany Twitchell, Director of Curriculum, played a key role in aligning activities with the district’s strategic goals, ensuring the day offered genuine opportunities for professional growth.


Because the event was open to the entire district, sessions were intentionally diverse. The campus was divided into active zones and quiet spaces, allowing participants to choose the pace that best suited their needs and interests. Professional sessions moved beyond traditional seminars to offer hands-on experiences. Participants engaged in physical activities like pickleball, high-intensity cardio, and line dancing, while others explored creative hobbies such as stained glass making, clay throwing, and "junk journaling". Expert-led workshops prioritized mental resilience and school safety, focusing on compassion fatigue and practical nervous system tools, while unique sessions offered lessons in life skills ranging from raising backyard chickens to using AI for antique photo restoration.


Executing an event of this scale required immense behind-the-scenes coordination. A special thank you is extended to the MHS East, MHS West, and District Administrative leadership and office staff for managing the complex logistics that ensured a successful day. We also share our sincere gratitude with the dining staff and the entire nutrition department; their hard work in providing breakfast and lunch allowed staff from across the district to gather and enjoy a true sense of shared community.


By launching this inaugural Wellness Day, RSU 57 has signaled a deep commitment to its most valuable asset: the people who keep the district running. This dedicated time for professional growth and community connection provides our staff with an opportunity to engage with one another outside of their typical daily routines. The day served to strengthen the foundation of our workforce as they continue their vital work for the students of our community.

Wild Encounters: Spark’s Ark Brings Learning to Life for RSU 57 Kindergartners Wild Encounters: Spark’s Ark Brings Learning to Life for RSU 57 Kindergartners

Kindergarten students across RSU 57 recently took part in a captivating shared learning experience that brought their classroom curriculum into the wild. As part of their "K for ME" instructional unit, students welcomed Spark’s Ark for an engaging presentation designed to deepen their understanding of the natural world.


The visit was carefully timed to align with Unit 2 of the K for ME curriculum, which focuses on caring for living things. Through investigation and research, our youngest learners have been diving deep into three distinct animal studies:


  • Fish and Frogs

  • Owls

  • Wolves


By studying animals found in their own backyards, like frogs and owls, students are building a stronger connection to their local environment. Simultaneously, learning about salmon and wolves helps expand their horizons to ecosystems further afield.


The highlight of the Spark’s Ark presentation was the opportunity for students to see a Barred Owl up close. This wasn't just a viewing; it was a history lesson in conservation. Students learned the story of how the owl was rescued and the specialized care it receives today.


In the classroom, students have been hard at work writing informational reports about animal characteristics and survival. The Spark’s Ark presentation provided a vital "real-world" link to these academic efforts. Seeing the animals in person allowed students to observe firsthand the adaptations they had been reading about, such as:


  • Physical features that help animals hunt or hide.

  • Unique behaviors that ensure survival in the Maine wilderness.

  • The importance of human stewardship in protecting local wildlife.


This shared experience has sparked a renewed sense of natural curiosity in our kindergartners, proving that when deep learning meets high engagement, the results are truly "wise."

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3rd Graders Visit Hilltop Boilers for Maple Sugaring Experience 3rd Graders Visit Hilltop Boilers for Maple Sugaring Experience

Waterboro Elementary’s third graders recently enjoyed a favorite district tradition: a hands-on "Shared Learning Experience" at Hilltop Boilers. This annual field trip offers students a unique opportunity to connect their classroom lessons with Maine’s natural resources and local industries.


The day began in the woods with "Grandpa," who led the students on a guided tour to identify the differences between deciduous and evergreen trees. Our young explorers learned how to spot a maple tree and followed the path of the sap as it travels through a complex tubing system from the trees straight to the sugar house. Inside, students watched the evaporator transform clear sap into rich syrup, discovering how heat and timing create the different grades of maple products we see in stores.


This trip served as a perfect real-world extension of the Third Grade Maine Studies unit. Prior to the visit, students had been exploring the history of the Wabanaki people and studying economic concepts like goods and services, producers, and consumers. Seeing a working farm in action helped these ideas come to life, showing exactly how a natural resource becomes a product that supports our local economy. To wrap up the sweet adventure, everyone enjoyed samples of maple syrup and maple crème on apple slices, leaving with a deeper appreciation for Maine’s environment and traditions.

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A "Terrific" Celebration at Alfred Elementary! A "Terrific" Celebration at Alfred Elementary!

What a hullabaloo we’ve had at Alfred Elementary School (AES)! Our students and staff recently wrapped up a spectacular schoolwide celebration of our annual “One School, One Book” literacy event, featuring the timeless classic, Charlotte’s Web.


For two weeks, our young readers dove deep into the world of Zuckerman’s farm. They didn't just read; they tackled sophisticated vocabulary words like "idiosyncrasy" and "garrulous" with ease. To honor Charlotte’s wisdom, our hallways were transformed by a massive spider web filled with "little Charlottes," each highlighting the wonderful traits of our favorite arachnid. Students even got hands-on by crafting their own clay spiders to bring the magic home!


The excitement extended far beyond the book covers. Each classroom chose from a daily menu of activities that blended core learning with themed fun. This incredible journey culminated in an unforgettable evening featuring:


  • Family STEM Night: Families teamed up for a special challenge to design sturdy, creative homes for Wilbur.

  • Art Showcase: Our PK-5 students proudly displayed their Charlotte’s Web masterpieces created during Allied Art.

  • Evening Book Fair: The school was transformed into a bustling county fair, complete with carnival games and prizes!


It was the perfect way to celebrate the power of a great story and the wonderful community we’ve built here at Alfred. "Some School," indeed!

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A Symphony of Success: 5th Graders Visit MMS A Symphony of Success: 5th Graders Visit MMS

On Friday, March 20, our district reached a special milestone. For the very first time, the entire 5th-grade class from across the district gathered under one roof at Massabesic Middle School for an inaugural Musical Showcase!


Principal Grantham opened the event with a warm welcome, marking a momentous occasion: the first time these students have been together as a single, united grade. The energy in the room was electric as the students got a firsthand look at the vibrant community they will join next year.


The talent on display was nothing short of inspiring. Our middle school performers gave the incoming students a true "backstage pass" to the arts:


Mr. Holbrook led the middle school choruses through a series of powerful sets. We heard from the combined 7th/8th grade chorus and the 6th grade chorus, culminating in a soul-stirring full ensemble performance of "I Sing Because I'm Happy."


Mr. Laciano and the 8th-grade band performed two technical pieces. In a special educational moment, the band highlighted each individual instrument. This gave our 5th graders a preview of the choices they’ll have when they start band next year under the direction of Mr. Milazzo.


The MMS Jazz Band brought the house down with two high-energy pieces. They closed the show with a massive rendition of "We Will Rock You," featuring the full chorus and a very enthusiastic 5th-grade audience joining in on the rhythm!


This showcase was more than just a concert; it was an introduction to the "Mustang Spirit" and the incredible extracurricular opportunities that await in 6th grade. We are thrilled to announce that we hope to make this an annual tradition to help our transition students feel at home before they even step through the doors in September.

Numbers Add Up to Success: RSU 57 Mathletes Shine at Final District Meet Numbers Add Up to Success: RSU 57 Mathletes Shine at Final District Meet

The competition was fierce and the mental math was fast on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, as our district mathletes gathered for the final showdown of the season. It was an afternoon of high-stakes problem solving, and the results are finally in!


Our elementary schools showed incredible teamwork and sportsmanship. This year, the district trophy is heading to Waterboro, but every school brought their "A-game."


  • 1st Place: Waterboro Elementary School

  • 2nd Place: Alfred Elementary School

  • 3rd Place: Lyman Elementary School

  • 4th Place: LINE Elementary School

  • 5th Place: Shapleigh Memorial School


The individual competition was historically close, featuring impressive accuracy across arithmetic and logic sections.


  • District Champion: Coltin Prue (Waterboro) dominated the field with an incredible 38 out of 40 points, including a perfect score in the arithmetic section.

  • Second Place: Cooper Heid (Waterboro)

  • Third Place: Chandwen Titcomb (Alfred)

  • Fourth Place: Katarina Arczewski (Alfred)

  • Fifth Place (Three-way Tie): Wesley Parker (Alfred), Thomas Charland (Lyman), and Hunter Mitchell (Lyman).


We want to recognize the students who earned the highest scores within their respective buildings:


  • Waterboro Elementary School: Coltin Prue

  • Lyman Elementary School: Thomas Charland & Hunter Mitchell

  • Alfred Elementary School: Chandwen Titcomb

  • LINE Elementary School: Evelyn Arborio

  • Shapleigh Memorial School: Emerson Mang & Sipherah Nichols


The journey doesn’t end here. We are thrilled to announce that the top six mathletes from each elementary school will be representing RSU 57 at the Southern Maine Math League Meet May 5, 2026 at The Portland Expo.


Congratulations to all our participants for a fantastic season. Your hard work, persistence, and love for mathematics make our entire district proud. Good luck to our regional qualifiers!

Student Success on the Board and on the Field Student Success on the Board and on the Field

It has been a banner month for Massabesic High School athletics and academics! We are thrilled to celebrate two students who have reached the pinnacle of their respective fields, representing the Mustangs with skill, strategy, and heart.


While many were enjoying the spring weekend, Walker Vivian was busy outmaneuvering the competition. On Saturday, March 21, Walker traveled to Lewiston High School to compete in the Maine Scholastic Individual Chess Championship.


This prestigious event brings together the top strategic minds from across the state for a day of intense mental competition. Competing in the U1400 division, Walker delivered a standout performance, winning 3 out of 4 games. This impressive record secured him a second-place finish in the state. This is a remarkable achievement that highlights his dedication, focus, and tactical skill in the "Game of Kings."


The tradition of excellence continues on the turf as we celebrate a major milestone for standout student-athlete Jackson Normand. Jackson has been officially named to the Shriner’s Lobster Bowl Team!


This prestigious selection recognizes Jackson as one of the premier football players in the state. He will join an elite roster of players from Western and Southern Maine to compete in the annual Lobster Bowl game on July 18 at Lewiston High School. Beyond the high honor of the nomination, Jackson will be "playing for a purpose," as all proceeds from this storied charity event benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

MHS Students Shine at SkillsUSA State Championships MHS Students Shine at SkillsUSA State Championships

The results are in from Bangor, and our Massabesic High School students have once again proven that they are among the best in the state!


Recently, over 100 students from the Sanford Regional Technical Center (SRTC), including a large contingent from MHS, traveled to compete in the SkillsUSA Maine State Leadership and Skills Conference. Facing off against peers from 27 technical schools across Maine, our students showcased their expertise in high-demand trades, technology, and leadership.


We are incredibly proud to celebrate the following MHS medalists who represented our community with professional excellence:


  • Connor Wilcox (MHS, Homeschool) - Gold Medal, Electrical Wiring Construction

  • Harley Robinson - Gold Medal, SkillsUSA Maine Branding & Pin Design

  • John Madigan - Gold Medal, Collision Repair Technology

  • Jaxson Condon - Silver Medal, Culinary Arts

  • Finn Lee - Silver Medal, Restaurant Service

  • Vanessa McCurry - Bronze Medal, Entrepreneurship Team Event

  • Max Tousignant - Bronze Medal, Extemporaneous Speaking

  • Whitney Borenstein - Student of the Year Nominee - Health Occupations

  • Gianni Carreira - Student of the Year Nominee - Automotive Technology


Please join us in congratulating these hardworking students on their incredible achievements!

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Devenny Brickett Named 2026 MPA Principal’s Award Winner Devenny Brickett Named 2026 MPA Principal’s Award Winner

RSU 57 is proud to announce that Devenny Brickett, a standout student at Massabesic High School, has been selected as the Maine Principals Association (MPA) Principal’s Award winner for the Class of 2026. This prestigious recognition is awarded to one senior per school who demonstrates a consistent commitment to academic excellence, outstanding citizenship, and leadership.


Principal Ty Thurlow, who named Devenny as this year’s recipient, noted that she perfectly exemplifies the award’s criteria. "Devenny truly encompasses what it means to be a leader at MHS and the President of the student body," shared Mrs. Ellis. "Her organization and maturity have allowed her to lead initiatives successfully and create lasting memories for the Class of 2026."


Devenny’s academic journey has been defined by a willingness to challenge herself, from excelling in Accelerated Chemistry to spearheading "kindness campaigns" within the school. Mrs. Carroll noted that Devenny "truly cares about leaving MHS a better place than when she arrived." This dedication to others extends into the healthcare field; Devenny currently serves as a CNA at Southern Maine Health Care, a role Mrs. Kearney describes as "heartfelt work and firsthand learning experience" toward her goal of becoming a travel nurse. Mrs. Kearney adds, "No matter what anxieties she’s feeling inside, she hones in her adaptive skills and digs deep to safely challenge herself."


From her travels to Costa Rica with the Culture Club to her daily interactions at MHS, Devenny sees the entire world as her community. Principal Thurlow concludes that naming Devenny as this year’s recipient is a privilege, noting that she will attend the upcoming MPA Honors Luncheon to celebrate her achievements alongside fellow top seniors from across the state. The RSU 57 community congratulates Devenny and her family for this wonderful achievement, honoring years of dedication and service to Massabesic High School.

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Supporting Every Mustang: The RSU 57 Community Support Initiative Supporting Every Mustang: The RSU 57 Community Support Initiative

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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!

Join the Music: 6th Grade Band Sign-Ups at MMS Join the Music: 6th Grade Band Sign-Ups at MMS

It is time to strike a chord! Massabesic Middle School is officially opening sign-ups for the 6th Grade Band. This is a fantastic opportunity for incoming students to explore their musical talents and become part of a vibrant school community.


Key Deadlines


Don’t miss a beat—the deadline to register is April 30.


How to Get Started


The school has made it easy for families to get all the necessary details and secure a spot in the ensemble:


  • Read the Details: Parents and students can access an information letter online to learn more about the program.

  • Register Online: Once you are ready to join, you can sign up directly through the provided digital links.


Whether you are looking to pick up a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument, now is the time to start your musical journey at MMS!

Community Connections: What’s New at Massabesic Adult and Community Education Community Connections: What’s New at Massabesic Adult and Community Education

Spring is a season of growth, and at Massabesic Adult and Community Education (MACE), we have a blooming lineup of classes designed for every member of our community. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby, master a life skill, or find a fun activity for the whole family, our upcoming schedule has something for everyone.


Youth Adventures & Kids' Classes


We are excited to offer several creative and interactive sessions to keep our younger learners engaged and curious. These classes provide fantastic opportunities for families to learn and play together:


  • Mr. Drew and his Animals Too!: Don't miss this wild and educational experience on Wednesday, April 22nd, from 11:00 AM–12:15 PM.

  • Kids Fluid Acrylic Canvas (Shapleigh): Spend an afternoon during school vacation week with your creative child! Open to ages 6 and up, kids and caregivers will work together to create a fluid acrylic canvas starting April 24th at 1:00 PM.

  • Martial Arts for Families (Ages 6+): Families who play together, stay together! Whether you are a beginner or have prior training, join us for this stress-free class based on World Tang Soo Do. The next session begins April 30th at 4:30 PM.


Spring Driver Education


Registration is now open for our comprehensive Driver Education program. Sessions are held Monday through Thursday from 2:00–4:00 PM at the MHS East Building. Upcoming start dates include May 5th and July 6th.


How to Register


Space for many of these programs is limited! You can view the full course catalog and sign up for one or all sessions by:


  • Visiting: massabesic.coursestorm.com

  • Calling: 207-247-2022


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

2025-2026 School Year Calendar 2025-2026 School Year Calendar

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Dates to Remember Dates to Remember

April 17, 2026: No School

April 20, 2026: District Closed

April 20 - April 24, 2026: Spring Break

April 28, 2026: Finance Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

April 29, 2026: School Board Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

May 5, 2026: District Budget Meeting @ 7:00pm - MMS Cafeteria

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

May 12, 2026: Finance Committee Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

May 13, 2026: School Board Meeting @ 6:00pm - MHS East Training Center

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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

RSU 57 Strategic Plan 2024-2028
Caitlin Carroll
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