MECDHH/GBSD NEWS

March 2023

Dear MECDHH/GBSD Community & Friends,

We can’t believe it’s already March with only three months remaining in the school year! We’re excited to share some updates about a variety of things happening at MECDHH/GBSD and in our community. Keep scrolling for more!

Campus Gateway Design

MECDHH/GBSD hosted a meeting on February 27th to gather public input on a new gateway to the MECDHH/GBSD campus on Mackworth Island. The State Bureau of General Services has hired Harriman Architects to work on this project, and preliminary drawings with some options to choose from are expected to be completed by the end of March. We want you - parents, caregivers, and community - to make sure your voice is part of these conversations. If you missed the public input meeting and you would like to inquire for more information or add to the conversation, please email: kimberly.spencer@mecdhh.org

Final Basketball Game

We had a PACKED gym on February 29th with standing room only for the last Baxter Seagulls basketball game of the season against alumni and staff. The game honored GBSD class of 1994's Billy Brackett, a victim of the Lewiston shooting, and the donation made on his behalf by FedEx. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our team and honor Billy.

Memorial

The East End Community School is still raising money to create a memorial to accompany the evergreen that was planted by students and teachers in honor of Josh Seal, parent, friend, and colleague who was a victim of the Lewiston shooting. Josh leaves behind his wife and four children, along with many friends and family members who loved him deeply. To contribute to this fundraiser, please visit the GoFundMe Page Here.

Preschool Building Update

The state has stepped in to fund a new roof and siding for Greenlaw Hall, where we typically have the three preschool classrooms. One preschool class has moved back into Greenlaw. Due to water damage, the other rooms are still being renovated. We will keep our community informed as progress is made. Thank you for your patience!

PPH Honors Middle School Student

One of our middle school students was honored last month for being featured in one of the 2023 Photos of the Year in the Portland Press Herald. The Press Herald photographer snapped the photo at one of last year’s Baxter Seagulls basketball games. We’re so proud of our student and this team!

Would you or someone you know like to refer a child for MECDHH/GBSD services? If so, please follow the links below for more information!

Referrals for age s 0-2

Referrals for ages 3-22

UPCOMING EVENTS

Save the dates for these spring events and be on the lookout for more details forthcoming in your email, on our website, and on social media. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and visit our Events page for updates! Questions about an event or have an event to share?

Please email: kimberly.spencer@mecdhh.org

WEDNESDAYS

10:00am - 11:30am

Weekly Playgroup

MECDHH/GBSD

1 Mackworth Island

Falmouth

MARCH 23

8:15am - 3:45pm

Maine's Conference for Professionals and Families of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children

Augusta Civic Center

MARCH 30

9:00am - 11:00am

Playgroup Popup

Little Play Space

120 Center St, Ste 109

Auburn

*coming up* - April 20 in New Gloucester, May 18 in Kennebunk

APRIL 5

5:30pm - 7:30pm

School Board Meeting

Lucerne Inn

2517 Main Rd

Dedham

PLEASE NOTE: This meeting will be held in Hancock County (Dedham) and we hope to see some area MECDHH/GBSD community members in attendance!

June 19

6:00pm

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Night

at Hadlock Field!

Watch Boston Red Sox Double-A affiliate Portland Sea Dogs face Richmond Flying Squirrels!

Before the game, there will be a parade around the field for all who wish to participate. The Sea Dogs will wear specially designed jerseys that have 'Sea Dogs' spelled out in American Sign Language (ASL). As part of the night, Pine Tree Society will be providing ASL interpreters, and the Sounds of Silence will be performing the National Anthem in ASL.

Purchase tickets HERE

We have several job openings at MECDHH/GBSD! Please visit the Employment Opportunities page on our website for more details!

The Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Governor Baxter School for the Deaf

1 Mackworth Island

Falmouth, ME 04105

www.mecdhh.org

207-781-3165