We know all about the wonderful things happening in Maine’s public schools, and by working together with our friends, families, and communities, we can spread the word! When businesses, organizations, government officials, and other community members feel excited about public education, it creates even more opportunity for Maine’s youth!
The Value of Community Partnerships
At MSAD 54 in Skowhegan, schools have tapped into the value of community partnerships in their design and construction of a new elementary school! By partnering with local businesses, stakeholders, and organizations such as the Kennebec Valley Community Action Program, the new school will offer childcare programming to students aged 6 weeks to 3 years.
By tapping into the expertise of a range of organizations, the new school project has truly been a community-wide effort, with school officials, business leaders and others partnering on a joint fundraising campaign that has brought the community together towards one goal.
“The mantra of ‘it takes a village’ truly is the spirit of what is happening in Skowhegan with the vision that began in conversations with our community partners nearly a decade ago and is now coming to fruition in this birth through grade 5 consolidated elementary school project,” said MSAD 54 Superintendent Jon Mooday. “This dream would not have come to reality without those partnerships and the advocacy and financial support of community leaders, business partners, and our dedicated staff.”
Not too long ago, Gorham Middle School invited state and local officials to school for the day! Officials met with student leaders, teachers, and administrators, building relationships in an effort to streamline and strengthen communication between public schools and policy makers.
By creating an opportunity for officials to experience firsthand the celebrations and challenges faced by public schools every day, Gorham facilitated conversations and connections that bridge school and community.
How to Make Community Connections
You can support your local public schools by facilitating connections between schools and businesses, organizations, government officials, community members, and more! Here are some tips for how you can get started!
Open lines of communication by sending an e-introduction! Businesses and local officials are often happy to connect and invite their local schools.
Make a plan of action for how you'll welcome community members into your school and what that experience will look like!
Consider how the inclusion of local businesses and organizations may make curriculum more expansive, and potentially offer new opportunities for students
An example from one school: A partnership with local organizations led to a brand new swimming class for students!
Consider how your existing curriculum may naturally lend itself to community activity. Can your biology assist the local parks department? Can English students help read books and mentor younger students?
Reflect on the challenges of working in a public school. Can engaging your community help to solve a problem your school or students are facing?
If you are a community member, reach out to your public schools and offer your expertise!
If you are a community member, reach out to your public schools and offer your expertise!