RSU 57 Community Newsletter

December 4, 2024

Message from the Superintendent

Dear Parents and Community Members,

I am pleased to share exciting news about the recent school rankings released by U.S. News and World Report. U.S. News analyzed over 105,000 pre-K, elementary and middle schools and nearly 25,000 high schools. State assessment data determines how most schools fare in these rankings.

These rankings highlight the outstanding progress and accomplishments of schools throughout Maine, including those in our own RSU #57 district. This year, U.S. News evaluated 469 elementary schools, 334 middle schools, and 126 high schools statewide, and I am thrilled to share the following results for our district:

Shapleigh Memorial School: Ranked #6 in Maine and #1 in York County
Lyman Elementary School: Ranked #24 in Maine and # 4 in York County
Alfred Elementary School: Ranked #97 in Maine
Waterboro Elementary School: Ranked #107 in Maine
Line Elementary School: Ranked #140 in Maine
Massabesic Middle School: Ranked #52 in Maine and #8 in York County
Massabesic High School: Ranked #55-103 in Maine

These rankings demonstrate significant progress across all our schools, and they are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, educators, staff, and the broader community.

We remain committed to fostering excellence in education and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue working together to achieve even greater success preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.

With warmest regards,

Stephen D. Marquis, PhD.

Cannabis Use in Adolescence: What Parents Need to Know

RSU 57 invites caregivers to join this virtual presentation to learn how cannabis use impacts Maine youth and what you can do to help. As a community, we can work together to safeguard the well-being of our students. Click the button below or enter the link in your browser to register for this free event.

Click HERE to register

MHS Students Volunteer at YCSP Food Pantry

On Tuesday, November 28, Culture and Accountability Coach Mr. Lucas Labbe and several MHS students volunteered at the York County Shelter Program Food Pantry as part of a week-long food drive conducted by MHS staff and students.

Pictured from left to right is Mr. Labbe, Mackenzie Paquette, Molly Bereshny, Elsie Wehrman, Lydia Suhy, Eliza Rogers, Isabella Frechette, Emilia Theriault and JT Barden.

USM Music Education Students Perform at Line

On November 22, music education students from the University of Southern Maine held a performance for Shapleigh and Line second through fifth graders. The group brought an engaging, dynamic performance with a variety of musical styles and instruments which was enjoyed by all!

NJROTC Area Manager Inspection

On December 3, the NJROTC program underwent its Annual Military Inspection (AMI), a thorough review required by law to evaluate all aspects of the program, including recordkeeping, property management, cadet recognition, and conduct standards. Gregory Washington, the Area Manager overseeing 26 schools from Western New York to Southern Connecticut, commended the cadets for their preparation and dedication. The inspection included individual evaluations of cadets’ appearance, knowledge, and precision, along with a carefully practiced indoor parade, the “pass and review,” which cadets had been working on all year.

First- and second-year cadets brought enthusiasm and energy, earning praise from Mr. Washington, a retired Navy chief warrant officer and experienced NJROTC instructor. Standout cadets Daniel Harriman, a third-year student named “Cadet of the Quarter,” and Isabel Lowell, a second-year student and November’s “Cadet of the Month,” were recognized for their exceptional commitment to every activity offered by the unit.

Reflecting on the cadets’ performance, Captain Douglas Howell said, “We have seen so many of our cadets evolve and grow; moments in the classroom, on a field trip, and [in] their level of performance in public. We saw that yesterday in their inspection. It is not what you measure, it’s what you see. The cadets in our program make this work.”

The NJROTC program is led by Chief Joseph Lipp and Captain Douglas Howell, whose guidance continues to inspire and support cadets in achieving excellence.

Photos featured below are courtesy of Jéré Gray.