As the sun rises later in the morning and sets earlier in the evening, it is the sign that summer is coming to an end and the next school year is about to begin. Parents are prepping supplies and planning for the transition. Children check in with friends about their summer activities and teachers start filing back to classrooms to prepare for the year ahead.

Five Town CSD and Camden-Rockport K-8 Superintendent Maria Libby and the administrative staff met over the summer to review strategic plans, and gear up for the academic year that begins Tuesday, Sept. 2.

In addition to goals, there are new educational developments:  

The High School will begin offering courses in The Hatchery, an innovation center the high school is launching this year to integrate the school and community.

The new middle school construction continues, and the SAD 28 launched the Take-A-Seat campaign at the end of June to begin raising funds for playground equipment, theater lighting, the athletic field, and a local art sculpture.

A new assistant principal has been hired for the Camden Rockport Elementary School: longtime teacher Katie Bauer. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and talent to the position that teams her with Principal Chris Walker-Spencer.

There are 11 new teachers, a few new ed techs and a new custodian in the schools.

A Communications Director/Executive Assistant, Trina Schroeder, to the superintendent has been hired.
 
“There is a lot to look forward to and a lot to be grateful for in our small community and school system,” wrote Libby, in a news release. “That is why this years' district(s) sticker is ‘Practice Gratitude’.”

She told the staff: "You have probably all read about the research on gratitude and the difference expressing it can make in someone's happiness and sense of well-being. It is a game changer. Consistently practicing gratitude will be good for all of us.”