Chip Schwehm has built a STEAM program that gives students an education rarely found in schools of Boothbay Region High School’s size. His classes immerse students in engineering, design, and fabrication, blending modern techniques with traditional methods. Through Mr. Schwehm’s leadership, students have opportunities to work with advanced equipment, including 3D printers, CNC routers, laser cutters, and CAD software. They also develop woodworking skills by constructing furniture and musical instruments. This combination of emerging technology and practical application offers students a rare depth of experience that is often only available in specialized programs.

Just in time for mud season, Boothbay Region Elementary School students will soon have a new space to explore and create, thanks to an Education Boothbay grant for a mud kitchen. Through nature-based play, students are having sensory experiences and developing fine motor skills, while exploring both science and art in a fun, unstructured way. "I am so excited about this addition to our playground,” says BRES Lead Pre-School teacher, Jess Murray, who wrote the grant for this project. "Our students will be constantly experimenting, making up recipes, and discovering new ways to use what’s around them. I just hope their caregivers don’t mind when they come home with muddy play clothes!” she laughs.

With funding from Education Boothbay, BRES launched one of Maine’s first middle school esports programs, giving students an inclusive, new opportunity to develop teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Guided by teacher Jeremy Phelps, the program is more than gaming—it’s about growth. Phelps says, “It’s incredible to watch our team building communication skills, creative problem solving and resilience under pressure that will serve them far beyond gaming.” Research shows that students in extracurriculars tend to score higher in math and reading, especially with exposure to positive adult mentors.