RSU 57 Community Newsletter

Dear RSU 57 Community,

As we move past the conclusion of the first quarter, it is inspiring to look back on what has already been a fantastic start to our school year. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our students, staff, and caregivers for the dedication and enthusiasm that have defined these past months. Your commitment to excellence has set the tone for a productive and joyful school year filled with numerous achievements and celebrations.

One remarkable trend we've observed is the significant increase in student participation in athletics and co-curricular activities over the past two years. This trend not only enriches the educational experience but also builds a stronger, more connected school community. With the winter season approaching, we are excited to see our Middle and High School students continue to pursue their interests and passions through these activities.

I am thrilled to announce several exceptional accomplishments in our district:

College Success Recognition

Today, GreatSchools.org announced the winners of their 2024 College Success Award, which honors public high schools excelling in preparing students for college enrollment and success. This year, only 22 high schools across Maine earned this prestigious recognition, including Massabesic High School. The College Success Award is based on a rigorous evaluation of schools' college preparation, enrollment, and performance data, with award-winning schools setting a high standard in ensuring student success beyond high school. Congratulations to Massabesic High School students and staff for this outstanding achievement!

Coach of the Year – Mrs. Jennifer Blair

We are proud to share that Mrs. Jennifer Blair has been named the Southern Maine Athletic Association's Women’s Cross Country Coach of the Year. This honor is a testament to her dedication to fostering growth, resilience, and a love for athletics in our students.

Student Advisor of the Year – Mrs. Eleanor Chow

Mrs. Eleanor Chow has been recognized as the 2024 Student Advisor of the Year by the Maine Adult Education Association. Her exceptional guidance and commitment to supporting student success are invaluable to our school community.

Gold Medal Rating for Sanford/Massabesic High School Marching Band

The Sanford/Massabesic High School Marching Band recently earned a Gold Medal rating from the Maine Band Directors Association for their outstanding performance, “Beacon.” This distinction highlights the talent and hard work of our student musicians and their director, Mr. Halpin-Desmarais.

Sportsmanship Award for Massabesic High School Golf Team

The Massabesic High School Golf Team has been awarded the SMAA Good Sportsmanship Award for the third consecutive year. This recognition exemplifies the values of respect, integrity, and character that are central to our athletic programs.

Southern Maine Youth Football Champions

Congratulations to the Massabesic Junior Mustangs Football team for their championship win in the 2024 Southern Maine Youth Football League! Your determination and teamwork are inspiring, and we look forward to your continued success.

These accomplishments reflect the hard work and commitment of our students, educators, coaches, and community members. As we head into the winter season, we anticipate further successes and celebrations for Mustang Nation.

Thank you again for your continued support. Let’s keep the momentum going and make this year one to remember as we collectively prepare students for success in an ever changing world.

Warm Regards,

Stephen D. Marquis, PhD.

MMS 6th Graders in interdisciplinary studies classes have been studying the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and their first unit has been centered around SDG 3: Good Health and Well Being. Students have been learning about mental and physical health, including good nutrition. As a summative activity in upcoming weeks, students will be designing and creating their own food truck. To prepare for their upcoming task, today we hosted Chris MacDonald and his food truck " Maddie's Acai Bowls". Students were able to learn what Chris does in a day as a food truck owner, view his truck, ask questions, and sample an acai bowl.

Students at Shapleigh Memorial School recently participated in a mock voting activity, organized by our fourth and fifth graders as part of their social studies unit. As part of the project, all students and staff had the opportunity to cast their votes for their favorite design for the State of Maine flag. It was a fantastic hands-on experience, and the results were impressive! Our students predicted the state results with remarkable accuracy, with their vote percentages closely matching those of the actual voting outcome. This activity provided a great opportunity for students to engage with the democratic process, learn about civic participation, and make connections to real-world events. Thank you to our fourth and fifth graders for organizing such a meaningful and fun learning experience!

Massabesic High School's National Honor Society is sponsoring its fourth annual Ugly Sweater 5K! ALL the proceeds of the event will be used to purchase holiday gifts from the giving trees in RSU 57's schools, libraries, and town halls. Never run/walked/crawled a 5K before? No worries. We've got you covered!

The event starts at Massabesic High School's track on December 1, 2024, at 9:00 am (check-in starts at 8:30 am) and takes you through the back roads nearby. Be sure to wear your ugliest Christmas sweater!

If you're not able to participate but would like to donate, visit the DONATE section on our website! Sponsors (individuals, families, and businesses) will be mentioned on the back of the shirts as well.

Register by November 18, 2024, and receive a FREE T-shirt!

Thank you for making holiday wishes come true for the kids in our community.

Massabesic High School's National Honor Society

SIGN UP LINK: https://bit.ly/uglysweater5k2024

November 21: PR/Technology Committee Meeting @ 6pm - East Training Center or YouTube

November 26: Transportation/Security Committee Meeting @ 6pm - East Training Center or YouTube

November 27-December 1: Thanksgiving Break

November 28-29: District Closed

December 3: Policy Committee Meeting @ 6pm - East Training Center or YouTube

December 10: Curriculum Committee Meeting @ 6pm - East Training Center or YouTube

December 11: Early Release Day

December 11: Finance Committee Meeting @ 5:30pm - East Training Center or YouTube

December 11: School Board Meeting @ 7pm - East Training Center or YouTube

"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