Staff & Community Newsletter - Jan 4, 2024
DISTRICT NEWS
![Happy Martin Luther King Day!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704389923/portlandschoolsorg/mlnqpzhzjeceswzocp0b/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy2.jpg","width":1920}])
Martin Luther King Day is observed every year on the third Monday of January – on Jan. 15 this year. It is a day to remember and celebrate the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the influential civil rights leader who worked to achieve racial equality and end racial segregation in the United States.
![Be Here for the New Year!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1701969253/portlandschoolsorg/zsv8bsjrcw1yx9cl9wfe/FinalsiteImageSizing2.jpg","width":1920}])
Students: It’s 2024, so time for New Year’s resolutions. Make sure one of your resolutions is to BE HERE in school every day! You will get many positives from being in school – not just success in academic subjects but being part of the school community and fostering your curiosity, creativity and sense of responsibility. Being in school can help you be your best self in this new year!
![CBHS’ Annual College March A Success]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704376192/portlandschoolsorg/bbr8qijt6jqiodhe95rp/CBHSMarchtoPODecember2023.jpg","width":1920}])
The college aspirations of Casco Bay High School students were on public display on Dec. 15, when CBHS seniors held the school’s 11th annual “College March” down Congress Street to the downtown post office. The entire senior class of nearly 100 students participated, mailing college applications or letters to a significant adult in their life who has supported their educational journey. 100 percent of the class was accepted to college this year!
![State of Schools 2023 Presented]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704378399/portlandschoolsorg/qd5zhirb8lkm2w4lhwns/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy3.jpg","width":1920}])
Portland Board of Public Education Chair Sarah Lentz presented the 2023 State of the Schools address to the City Council and the public on Monday, Dec. 18. The City Charter requires that the Board chair deliver an annual address to the Council on the state of the public education system in Portland. Here's a summary of her presentation (and you can also click on links below to read the full address and watch on YouTube).
![$250k Will Help Add More Educators]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1696525766/portlandschoolsorg/fuzsiuzjvarno22th4mt/PPSNewsImage_1.png","width":1920}])
The Portland Public Schools is among four school districts and two educational institutions to receive awards totaling nearly $1 million to recruit, train, and retain educators through pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship pilot programs.
![Middle Schools Celebrate Winter with Concerts]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704396898/portlandschoolsorg/i7jzirjzsgoz811gr0wn/LincolnMiddleSchoolconcertDec52023.jpg","width":1920}])
All three PPS middle schools made beautiful music for the community in December, showcasing their hard work and dedication since the start of school.
![Parent University 4th Grade Health Curriculum Overview]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1701894388/portlandschoolsorg/yonbp7x77iixku4vfqam/ParentU-4thGradeHealthCurriculumOverview2023.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1701894388/portlandschoolsorg/yonbp7x77iixku4vfqam/ParentU-4thGradeHealthCurriculumOverview2023.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1701894388/portlandschoolsorg/yonbp7x77iixku4vfqam/ParentU-4thGradeHealthCurriculumOverview2023.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1701894388/portlandschoolsorg/yonbp7x77iixku4vfqam/ParentU-4thGradeHealthCurriculumOverview2023.jpg","width":1080}])
This upcoming Parent University session will offer an overview of the three-lesson fourth-grade health curriculum, which outlines the physical, social, and emotional changes that come in puberty. Also discussed will be why teaching this material is important, and what we can do together to partner to ensure a successful experience for your child
![Maine DOE’s Wabanaki Studies Website Revamped!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704379636/portlandschoolsorg/i3ncjvr1pih8v2gi5grg/Wabanaki-Studies-Resources.webp","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704379636/portlandschoolsorg/i3ncjvr1pih8v2gi5grg/Wabanaki-Studies-Resources.webp","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704379636/portlandschoolsorg/i3ncjvr1pih8v2gi5grg/Wabanaki-Studies-Resources.webp","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704379636/portlandschoolsorg/i3ncjvr1pih8v2gi5grg/Wabanaki-Studies-Resources.webp","width":1080}])
After months of collaboration between Wabanaki advisors and educators from across the state, under the direction of the Wabanaki Studies Specialist, Brianne Lolar (Panawahpskek), the website has been revamped to include a plethora of new resources, including curriculum, units, lessons, activities, & more! Learn more.
![Snow Day Plans 2023-2024]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704380602/portlandschoolsorg/cmko14upejywgv4yli6e/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy6.jpg","width":1920}])
Although we haven’t seen much of the white stuff yet, it is the time of year in Maine to expect snow storms and other types of inclement weather events. In advance of the changes in the weather, Superintendent Ryan Scallon presented the Portland Public Schools' snow day plans for the 2023-2024 school year to the Board of Public Education in November.
![PPS Thanks Cuddledown for Keeping Needy Families Warm!]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704378910/portlandschoolsorg/mkqwvrl3pbigopgvjruo/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy4.jpg","width":1920}])
Here’s a message from the Foundation for Portland Public Schools: “The PPS Multilingual & Multicultural Center put out a request for donations of blankets and pillows for families staying in shelters and other short-term situations. Our friends at Cuddledown answered the call.
![In Memoriam: James Maloney Jr.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704381147/portlandschoolsorg/mwfidvwr7mfha4lref7n/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy7.jpg","width":1920}])
The Portland Public Schools sends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of James Maloney Jr., better known as Buzz, who passed away Dec. 27. Buzz, 81, was passionate about teaching, and spent nearly 40 years teaching history, social studies, and English in the Portland Public Schools
![Deering Teacher Supports the Arts and Students Through Music]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704382275/portlandschoolsorg/akooaun1erv7mhtngox5/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy8.jpg","width":1920}])
Iman Enan is a Deering High School graduate who also now serves her alma mater as a science teacher for multilingual students at Deering. She also dedicates her time to supporting the arts and youth as the Student & Family Coordinator for Palaver Strings. That musician-led string ensemble and nonprofit organization, based in Portland, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a series of videos, and Ms. Enan is featured in the fourth installment.
![Painting for Purpose Funds Student Projects]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704397247/portlandschoolsorg/qwkmetenoswpwcwmcdvw/PaintingforPurposeGrantPhoto.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704397247/portlandschoolsorg/qwkmetenoswpwcwmcdvw/PaintingforPurposeGrantPhoto.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704397247/portlandschoolsorg/qwkmetenoswpwcwmcdvw/PaintingforPurposeGrantPhoto.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704397247/portlandschoolsorg/qwkmetenoswpwcwmcdvw/PaintingforPurposeGrantPhoto.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704397247/portlandschoolsorg/qwkmetenoswpwcwmcdvw/PaintingforPurposeGrantPhoto.png","width":1350}])
A student at Deering High School is founding a Kendama Club at Deering – believed to be the first such club at any Maine school – to bring diverse students together through a common hobby. Some eighth-graders at Lyman Moore Middle School are taking over their school’s news, creating a weekly broadcast to provide the student body with entertaining yet informative news about their school.
![PPS Families: MaineCare Eligibility Expanded for Children and Young Adults]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704393601/portlandschoolsorg/k24o4hgzc91zunr1pfpe/Capture.webp","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704393601/portlandschoolsorg/k24o4hgzc91zunr1pfpe/Capture.webp","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704393601/portlandschoolsorg/k24o4hgzc91zunr1pfpe/Capture.webp","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704393601/portlandschoolsorg/k24o4hgzc91zunr1pfpe/Capture.webp","width":883}])
The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has expanded MaineCare eligibility for children and young adults under 21 in Maine to include family incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level, effective October 1, 2023. That translates to an annual salary of about $59,000 for a family of two and $90,000 for a family of four.
PPS IN THE PRESS
![Bangor Daily News: Wabanaki studies should be taught at all Maine schools]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704379960/portlandschoolsorg/bxbgzsxvx9ycwnzs7wso/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy5.jpg","width":1920}])
In this op-ed, PPS alum Hope Carroll, now a student at the University of Maine, writes about the need for Maine school districts to expand their curriculum to include Wabanaki Studies, and gives credit to PPS for leading the state in doing that.
![The Forecaster: Portland Superintendent's Notebook: Joyful celebrations and a budget update]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704317348/portlandschoolsorg/bzxitxlxfe3vpizsqcw3/TheForecaster-PortlandSuperintendentsNotebook-Joyfulcelebrationsandabudgetupdate.png","width":1920}])
In his December column in The Forecaster, Superintendent Ryan Scallon gives an update on the upcoming Portland Public Schools' budget for the 2024-2025 school year, noting that it will be a particularly challenging budget for three three primary reasons. He also writes about joyful celebrations that our schools held in December.
EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES
![Exciting PROSPER Scholarship Opportunity for Asylum Seekers]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704384216/portlandschoolsorg/seio8qyddzwfgjrr7c15/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy10.jpg","width":1920}])
The application period for ProsperityME’s annual academic scholarship program is open. The PROSPER Scholarship Program helps asylum seekers obtain an associate degree or a vocational certificate. The two-year academic program assists asylum seekers in earning their associate degree and covers tuition and books at any accredited community college or university in Maine. Students are paired with mentors to help make the most of their college experience. The deadline for submitting applications is March 31, 2024.
![New Initiative Provides Welcoming Libraries to EECS, Talbot & Other Maine Schools]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704383820/portlandschoolsorg/jklw04ah4qrwgj83s2m2/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy9.jpg","width":1920}])
The Maine DOE and I’m Your Neighbor Books have announced a new PINE Project, which will provide no-cost Welcoming Libraries to 16 schools across Maine. Each library contains 60 books allowing immigrant and New American students to see themselves and their families reflected in what they are reading and providing all students with picture books featuring stories of immigrant families and the diversity of America.
![DHS Science Olympians Headed to Tournament]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704393142/portlandschoolsorg/titizfbmkscosntwopgt/MITScienceOlympiad2024.jpg","width":1920}])
Deering High School’s accomplished Science Olympians are gearing up for the 10th annual Massachusetts Institute of Technology Science Olympiad Invitational Tournament this month – and are reaching out to the community for fundraising support to help them attend. Set for Saturday, Jan. 20 on the MIT campus, the in-person tournament will feature all 23 Division C national events, showcasing challenging lab and engineering competitions meticulously crafted and overseen by MIT's Science Olympiad alumni
![Nominations Open for 2024 County Teachers of the Year/2025 State Teacher of the Year]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1704393338/portlandschoolsorg/j4bt8vq6jjlihtdse06s/FinalsiteImageSizing2copy11.jpg","width":1920}])
The Maine Department of Education and Educate Maine announced this week that nominations are now open for the 2024 County Teachers of the Year and 2025 State Teacher of the Year.
“Maine is home to amazing teachers who educate, inspire, innovate, nurture, and go above and beyond each and every day for their students, schools, and communities. The Maine Teacher of the Year program recognizes the extraordinary contributions of educators across our state and gives them a megaphone to share the great things happening in Maine public schools. Please nominate an outstanding teacher in your life today,” said Maine Education Commissioner Pender Makin.
Upcoming Events
Pre-K Lottery Application Opens
Monday, January 8th
High School Preference Form Due
Friday, January 12th
Friday, January 12th
