ROCKLAND — Penobscot Bay Language School (PBLS) is seeking new Board members from around the state to fill current and up-coming vacancies as current board members wrap up their terms.

The current Board of Directors has seen PBLS through some of the toughest times in their 38 year history, according to PBLS, in a news release. Following a transitional period just before the 2020 pandemic PBLS hired a full-time executive director (which started the week the State of Maine went on lockdown).

“It has been an up-hill battle since that time–but the school has weathered the storm well, and is looking forward to a new chapter for the organization,” said PBLS.

Board members do not need to live in the Midcoast region to serve on the Board of Directors; all meetings are on Zoom, and diverse voices from around the state are needed.

Although the pandemic was devastating to the school, which at the time only offered in-person learning and events, PBLS was able to find new revenue sources and put classes online in the early days of the pandemic. Since that time, the school has introduced new and meaningful cultural programming and language classes (including FREE English for New Mainers).

“With more students, language classes, and cultural events than ever, it is an exciting time to get involved at the leadership level of this great organization,” said the release.

The school is seeking volunteers from around the state of Maine, preferably with nonprofit leadership experience (previous board service with another nonprofit), but would welcome anyone that believes in their mission: To develop and provide opportunities for the people of Midcoast Maine and around the world to explore our shared experience on earth through the study and celebration of language and culture.  

Interested community members can reach out to Executive Director Jared McCannell at director@penobscot.us or call (207) 594-1084.

Penobscot Bay Language School was founded in 1986 as a non-profit language school and center for cultural exchange. PBLS has served thousands of foreign language learners and international students, of all ages, through language classes and cultural programming. PBLS offers online and in-person foreign language classes & tutorials, free English for New Mainers, intercultural community events, cooking classes, and numerous educational outreach programs and events for youth and adults in the Midcoast region and around the world.