News & Calendars

The higher education goals of students at Casco Bay High School (CBHS) will be on public display on Friday, Dec. 13, when CBHS seniors hold the school’s annual “College March” down Congress Street to the downtown post office. The 2024 College March will mark the 12th year that students have held a parade to showcase students’ educational aspirations. The entire senior class of nearly 100 students will participate in the event, mailing college applications or letters to a significant adult in their life who has supported their educational journey. The community is encouraged to come and cheer the students on!

Students and a math teacher at Deering High School recently distinguished themselves in debate, civics and research. Read on to learn more:

Rowe Elementary School physical education teacher Rene Custeau said students in grades 3 through 5 recently had an exciting opportunity to push their limits, build confidence, and experience the thrill of adventure—all thanks to the support of the FPPS Equity and Innovations Grant Program. This year, the grant, titled Empowering Students Through Outdoor Adventure: A Partnership with Ripple Effect, made it possible for all students in these grades to participate in a high ropes course challenge led by Ripple Effect, a nonprofit organization dedicated to outdoor education.

At Rowe Elementary School physical education teacher Rene Custeau shared this report on a running initiative at the school this fall: “September and October were filled with energy, enthusiasm, and a sense of community thanks to the Recess Runners Program. Kicking off on September 24th, this month-long initiative encouraged students to get moving, challenge themselves, and raise funds to support their school. And when the program culminated in a Walk-a-Thon fundraiser on October 25th, it was clear that this was more than just a fitness event—it was a celebration of student health, school spirit, and the power of working together as a community.

Construction kicked off again the week of Dec. 2 at historic Fitzpatrick Stadium, according to an announcement from Portland Hearts of Pine (“Hearts”), the new professional USL soccer club that will begin play in March 2025. Hearts said in a press release that it is coordinating with the Portland Public Schools and the City of Portland’s Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department to ensure that the construction goes smoothly and with minimal disruption.

The fourth monthly meeting of the district’s new Community Advisory Committee on Attendance Boundaries for PreK-8 Schools took place on Nov. 21. The committee’s agenda called for defining neighborhoods, identifying hazard zones and reviewing and assessing the district’s walking guidelines.

One returning Board member, two new members and five student representatives were sworn in at the Portland Board of Public Education’s Dec. 3 Inauguration Ceremony. The Board also voted for Sarah Lentz to serve for the third consecutive time as Board chair for the coming year and for Abusana “Micky” Bondo to be vice chair for a third year.