9358-R3_LGP_MechanicFalls_2024AnnualReport

Bruce M. Whittier Middle School Principal

February 10, 2026

Greetings from Whittier Middle School!

Whittier Middle School currently serves 249 seventh and eighth graders from Mechanic Falls, Minot and Poland.

We had a very exciting start to the school year when Chorus Teacher Julia Edwards was named Maine Teacher of the Year on October 26th. Julia is a master teacher and phenomenal colleague. She is very active in our community and provides leadership in a number of musical capacities in Maine. As the state teacher of the year, she is certain to serve as a voice for our district, our community, and state teachers as a whole. The special recognition for Julia was only part of a very positive start to our school year. This group of students and families have truly been a joy to work with. The students show great energy and are exhibiting academic and social growth. One of the keys and challenges to a successful middle school is facilitating positive relationships amongst staff and students. All students are part of advisory groups, called Roundtables. Roundtable ensures that every student has opportunities for connection to peers and a helpful adult in the building. Students are more successful academically when they feel safe and included. At Whittier, students take full-year courses in English language arts, physical education, math, science, and social studies. Seventh grade students take art and technology education for one semester each. In eighth grade, students are enrolled in Spanish and Wellness classes. Students may choose to participate in band and/or chorus. Student Council, Drama Club, Tech Team, Math Club, Dungeons & Dragons, and Civil Rights Club are all popular activities for students. Over 70 students participated in field hockey, soccer, and cross-country running in the fall, and 45 students are currently playing basketball. The chance to be active, participate, and compete is very positive for physical and mental health. Students just completed the National History Day project, a project emphasizing the development of research skills. The project provides students with the opportunity to choose a topic and project type that matches their interests. Seventy-five members of the community served as judges; they interviewed students and gave feedback on student work.

We are extremely proud of the teaching, learning, and positive culture of our school, and we thank you for your support and investment in our students.

Shawn J. Vincent Principal

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