Riley School has been awarded grant funding from the Maine Community Foundation to support an innovative, place-based service-learning initiative connecting students with the people, industries, and ecosystems of Midcoast Maine.

"Midcoast Maine is known for its rich natural resources, working waterfronts, small farms, local businesses, and vibrant arts community," said the Riley School, in a news release. "At the same time, the region faces complex challenges related to climate change, economic sustainability, an aging population, declining birth rate, and workforce development. This new initiative will engage students directly with these realities through sustained, meaningful partnerships across the community."

Rather than participating in one-time volunteer activities, students will take part in structured, ongoing projects co-designed with local partners—including farms, conservation organizations, land trusts, senior centers, libraries, municipal offices, small businesses, and tradespeople.

"These collaborations position community members as co-educators and co-creators of authentic learning experiences," said the School.

Project areas will include environmental monitoring and stewardship, where students collect and share data on local ecosystems; sustainable agriculture and food systems, in partnership with regional farms and food access organizations; and oral history work with senior centers and historical societies to preserve the stories of longtime residents. Additional efforts will focus on community data collection and civic engagement, as well as career exploration through mentorships and job-shadowing opportunities with local professionals.

In each case, student work will contribute to real community needs and decision-making processes. Students will document, reflect on, and share their learning, ensuring that the impact of the work is both visible and lasting.

“This grant allows us to deepen our commitment to place-based education and to the Midcoast community,” said Annie Hasselgren, Head of School. “Our students will not only learn about the region but also actively contribute to its future.”

Riley School is an intentionally small school built on progressive pedagogy to provide a well-rounded education that emphasizes the arts, foundational academic skills, thought innovation, and character development. With a rich history of fostering young talent, the school offers a variety of programs designed to nurture creativity and excellence in students.