Summer Community Champion A community champion is a person who collaborates with a variety of partners to strengthen school, business, and non-profit relationships for the benefit of the community and our students. Marti Steven's Summer Community Champion is Tristen Hinkle! Tristen has worked tirelessly to build meaningful connections between her students and the Skowhegan community and beyond. She believes learning extends far beyond the classroom walls and has created countless opportunities for students to engage in hands-on, real-world experiences. From water sampling and maple syrup production to beekeeping, college visits, and even a lobster boat tour, Tristen continually finds innovative ways to connect students with learning through community partnerships. Her dedication to building relationships has not only enriched the experiences of her students but has also strengthened connections between the community and our schools. Tristen is a passionate advocate for her students, always taking the time to listen, support, and encourage them both academically and personally. She approaches every challenge with compassion, utilizing trauma-informed practices and a calm, solution-focused mindset. This year, Tristen's impact was recognized statewide when she was selected as one of Maine's 2026 Alternative Education Educators of the Year—an honor awarded to educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to student success, innovative programming, and unwavering advocacy for alternative education. https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18rJ5qrXjV/?mibextid=wwXIfr Through her leadership, commitment, and belief in every student's potential, Tristen has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students and families. Thank you for all you do in our community, Tristen!

What a fantastic way to wrap up the school year! For our final field trip of the year, students and soon to be graduates traveled to Camden Harbor for an unforgettable lobster boat tour, where they explored the many career opportunities that exist along Maine’s waterfront. From lobstering and boat operation, to tourism and ocean-based industries, students got a firsthand look at the skills, dedication, and passion that create the opportunities available along Maine's ocean. The day also gave many students the chance to experience the ocean in a way they may not otherwise have had the opportunity to, creating memories that will last long after graduation. We finished the trip with lunch at the beautiful Rockland Breakwater, celebrating a successful school year. A huge thank you to Gear Up for funding this incredible experience and helping our students explore future career pathways beyond the classroom! #MSLC #CareerExploration #MaineOceans #MaineCareers #GearUp #LearningBeyondTheClassroom

Congratulations to the Marti Stevens Learning Center Class of 2026! On, June 7, we had the honor of celebrating an incredible accomplishment and recognizing a remarkable group of graduates in our very own gym at our new location! Each member of the Class of 2026 followed their own unique path to this milestone. Along the way, they learned, grew, built confidence, overcame challenges, and achieved goals worth celebrating. Their diplomas represent the hard work, perseverance, and bright futures that lie ahead. Most importantly, they reflect the determination and potential each graduate carries into the next chapter of life. To our graduates: We are proud of all you have accomplished and grateful to have been part of your journey. We wish you happiness, success, and endless opportunities in the years ahead. Congratulations, Class of 2026

Our career exploration continued this week with a visit to the Augusta Airport, where students had the opportunity to see small aircraft up close, sit in the cockpit, and even try a flight simulator. The experience broadened students’ perspectives on career possibilities, inspiring some to consider aircraft mechanics in addition to their interest in automotive mechanics. Students then visited the Viles Arboretum, where they explored the trail system, practiced plant and tree identification, and experienced science beyond the classroom walls. By observing ecosystems firsthand and connecting classroom concepts to the natural world, students gained a deeper understanding of how science applies to everyday life. These hands-on experiences help make learning more meaningful while encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the environment around them.

It was another busy week of volunteering for MSLC! This week, students partnered with Somerset Woods Trustees to install trail signs and complete additional trail work in Solon, helping improve local outdoor spaces for the community. Beyond the trail work, students strengthened important soft skills like teamwork, communication, responsibility, and problem-solving. Working outdoors alongside community partners also provided opportunities to build relationships, gain confidence, and experience the value of giving back to their community.

A huge thank you to Joe’s Flat Iron Cafe for generously donating iced coffee and cream to support our yard sale fundraiser! Where the funds will be used toward future experiential learning activities. The event was a wonderful success, and everyone truly enjoyed the fresh brew throughout the day. Our students and staff worked hard behind the scenes baking, cooking, organizing, and preparing to make the event happen. Additionally, students found success carrying around goods to vendors increasing sales. Beyond raising funds, this experience gave students the opportunity to build responsibility, teamwork, communication, and other important soft skills while interacting with community members and working with the public in a real-world setting. We are so grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, supported, and helped make this day such a success!

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At MSLC, we believe learning goes far beyond the classroom walls. By taking advantage of the beautiful natural spaces around us, we create meaningful, hands-on experiences that support both physical wellness and personal growth. To kick off our return from April vacation, our students spent gym class at Pleasant Mountain—soaking up the sunshine, breathing in the fresh air, and staying active in an inspiring outdoor setting. Experiences like these not only promote healthy habits, but also help students build confidence, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

A community champion is a person who collaborates with a variety of partners to strengthen school, business, and non-profit relationships for the benefit of the community and our students.

The spring community champion award at Marti Stevens goes to Jim Goodwin!

Jim has been volunteering with students since he came to MSLC— including partnerships with the Somerset Woods Trustees, the Town Food Pantry, and the backpack program. Mr Goodwin demonstrates what it means to be an effective and productive member of our community and is a vital member of our Marti Stevens Learning Center team.

Thank you for all you do, Jim, we’re so lucky to have you!

What an incredible day of exploration and inspiration for students at Marty Stevens Learning Center! Our alternative education students had the opportunity to visit the Versant Astronomy Center, where they experienced an immersive show on black holes—bringing their science classroom learning to life in a powerful and unforgettable way. From there, they continued their day with a University of Maine Orono college tour, helping students see firsthand that higher education is a real and achievable path. Students shared these thoughts: “That was the coolest thing I’ve ever got to experience!” “This is the trip I have been looking forward to all year!” Experiences like this not only deepen understanding, but also open doors. We are so proud of our students for making meaningful connections and beginning to envision their futures beyond high school. A huge thank you to Aspire for supporting this opportunity—encouraging students to explore careers in science and helping fund an experience they won’t soon forget!

MSAD 54's next Play and Learn is coming up on Saturday, March 21st. This is for ages 0-5 and their caregivers. We look forward to seeing you there!

What an incredible day of winter fun and learning! Thanks to our continued partnership with Move More Kids, our students had an unforgettable Winter Carnival experience at Lake George Regional Park. The day was packed with outdoor adventure, teamwork, and new skills. Students raced in creative cardboard box sled competitions, tried their hand at ice fishing, and enjoyed ice skating thanks to the generous support of the Skowhegan Community Center. They even learned how to make fire starters with Brady from MMK — a big hit! We are so grateful to be part of such a supportive and engaged community that helps create meaningful outdoor recreation opportunities for our students. Thanks for making learning fun and memorable! #OutdoorLearning #WinterCarnival #CommunityConnections #MoveMoreKids

Hands-on learning in action at MSLC. Today our students had the incredible opportunity to learn from two amazing local businesses- and learn by doing! We started the day with an educational tour of the Weston Dam, hosted by Brookfield Renewable, where students explored how alternative energy is created and how hydropower plays a role in our world. Huge thanks for the engaging and eye-opening experience! Next, students rolled up their sleeves and headed outdoors to learn the art (and science) of maple sugaring. With the help of Andy from A to Z Maple Syrup, located on the Back Rd in Skowhegan, students put in 21 taps that they'll harvest throughout the season. We can't wait to follow the process from sap to syrup- and enjoy the sweet results of their hard work! Experiences like these show the power of hands-on, real-world learning and the value of strong community partnerships.

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Ready to make a difference every day? Apply to join MSAD 54 today:

https://msad54skowheganme.tylerportico.com/tess/citizen/jobs/job-list/jobs.

A Community Champion is a person who collaborates with a variety of partners to strengthen school, business, and non-profit relationships for the benefit of the community and our students.

Congratulations to Marti Steven's Winter Community Champion, Jen Boudreau!

Jen has personally arranged for students to be able to go into the community for internships. She works so hard to have our students volunteering in the community whether it be working on trail cleanup or making items for children at KVCAP. Students in her classes have made games, a doll house and many other items. She is a true community champion!

Congratulations, Jen, we’re so lucky to have you as a part of our team!

College tour season is officially here! 🎓❄️ Our students had an awesome visit to Thomas College, checking out the campus, learning about programs, and getting a feel for what college life is really like. For many of our students, days like this really matter. Seeing colleges in person helps make future goals feel real and achievable. Huge thanks to Thomas College for welcoming our students and helping open doors to what’s possible!

Marti’s Field Trip: Trail Stewardship in Solon 🌲✨
On Friday, November 7th, 2025, our students spent the day in Solon learning hands-on trail maintenance skills! They helped define a new section of trail off McCarty Road at Parkman Hill Farm, working alongside three members of the Somerset Woods Trustees, in partnership with Skowhegan Outdoors.

Despite the chilly fall morning, our students were enthusiastic and engaged. Ayden, our trail stewardship leader, introduced the group to various trail-trimming tools and emphasized the importance of safety. Once equipped, students headed onto the trail to clear overgrowth and remove roots to improve safety for future hikers. They worked hard, followed directions carefully, and showed great teamwork. Many even said they’d love to return and volunteer again!

For nearly 100 years, the Somerset Woods Trustees have been committed to land conservation and community stewardship. Since 1927, they have protected local habitats, supported forest management and recreation access, and mentored youth through hands-on outdoor programs. Their conservation efforts span six communities—from Skowhegan to New Portland to Bingham—preserving some of Somerset County’s most biodiverse areas, including habitats for more than five imperiled species. They also support local families through their Community Firewood Assistance Program.

Learn more about their incredible work at somersetwoodstrustees.org.

We are grateful for the opportunity to learn, explore, and give back to our local environment. 🌿💚

Mslc parent teacher conferences Monday 11/24. Please call to schedule

🌲 Forest Field Day Success! 🌲 We had an incredible day hosting the Skowhegan Area Middle School’s Penobscot Team at MSLC for our Forest Field Day! A huge shoutout to our amazing community partners who joined us to share their expertise: Skowhegan Outdoors, 7 Lakes Alliance, L.C. Bates Museum, the Somerset Forester, and Bangor Cooperative Extension. Students explored a wide range of hands-on activities — from planting for erosion control, nature observation through art, and identifying skulls, skins, and tracks, to forest ID and recognizing invasive aquatic plants. 🌿 🎥 Check out this awesome video — filmed and edited by MSLC’s own Ayden Langley and hosted by Wyatt Ellis with support from John Harlow! 👉 Watch here https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pEIQnUhH8SWQUG8bzTVBN85z4FwLVSyl/view?  One SAMS student even shared this heartfelt reflection: “Thank you for providing the Forestry Field Trip. Yesterday’s field trip was a great learning experience for students, as we went outdoors and learned about different trees, leaves, species, and animals. Most children today spend too much time on technology, so this was a really beneficial experience. My favorite activities were the Arts and Crafts station and the Skulls, Animal Tracks & Pelt station. I also loved the playground (petition for one at SAMS!). Thank you, Ms. Greenlaw, for making this possible. This has been the best field trip I’ve had throughout middle school — I love learning about nature, being outdoors, and studying biology!” 🌞 It truly was a memorable event — thank you to everyone who made it possible! 💚 ⸻

We were thrilled to not only attend the Common Ground Fair, but to return several days after to help with cleanup! Read more about our experience in the Aspire River Hawks September Newsletter here: https://sites.google.com/msad54.org/aspireriverhawks/newsletters?authuser=0