Marti Stevens Learning Center

Last spring, the kindergarten teachers at Mill Stream Elementary School (MSES) sought to enrich their students’ experience from a field trip to the Northeast Livestock Expo at the Windsor Fairgrounds. To expand upon this educational adventure, they partnered with the dedicated staff and students of Marti Stevens Learning Center (MSLC). Recognized as 2024 Maine Agriculture in the Classroom Teachers of the Year, the Marti Stevens educators bring unique hands-on learning experiences to their students through their beekeeping program. This initiative was taken a step further when MSLC students, in collaboration with Aspire River Hawks, traveled to Norridgewock to engage in a series of activities with the kindergartners. The interactive sessions covered essential topics such as plant growth, the workings of a beehive, and ensured that families have access to essential resources during the early years of a child’s development. Our team has set several goals, including supporting incoming Pre-K and kindergarten students, organizing “Play and Learn” events for young children in the community, launching a parent communication campaign, and providing ongoing support to families. All events, resources, and activities will be provided district-wide and will be open to anyone in our community. even a delightful honey tasting! This collaboration not only provided a rich educational experience for both groups but also fostered a sense of community and shared learning. Building on the success of this initiative, MSLC students interested in early childhood education have been visiting MSES weekly this fall to assist during center time. Recently, the kindergartners have been engaging in dramatic play activities, acting as librarians and barbers as they learn what these jobs entail. These visits have allowed MSLC students to explore their potential career paths while facilitating meaningful connections between curriculum content and real-life applications for the kindergarteners. The partnership between MSES and MSLC exemplifies the power of community in education, demonstrating how shared experiences can enrich the learning journey for both younger and older students alike. Somerset County Jail Sends Fresh Produce to Local Schools