Mark Pasquini secures $5000 grant for Appalachian outdoor adventures for local kids

The Timberlane Regional School District held a meeting on December 19, 2024, where several positive developments in student programs and initiatives were highlighted. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to enhancing educational experiences and opportunities for its students.

One of the standout announcements was the successful application for an outdoor journey fund grant from the Appalachian Mountain Club, secured by Mark Pasquini. This grant, amounting to $5,000, will allow 20 to 25 students to participate in two overnight trips, providing them with authentic outdoor experiences. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering a sense of adventure and physical activity among students.

In addition to outdoor education, the meeting also celebrated the achievements of students in music and robotics. The Jazz Allstate event, scheduled for February 6-8 at Pinkerton Academy, will see students from the district participating, with 33 students completing 36 auditions. Notably, eight students were selected, with two achieving the highest scores in the state. Similarly, the Classical Allstate event will take place from April 3-5 at Bell High School, where 22 students were selected from 48 who auditioned.

The district's robotics teams also made headlines, with two teams from the middle school competing in a regional competition. One team qualified for the state level and received an award for robot design, finishing 15th out of 50 teams statewide. These accomplishments reflect the district's emphasis on STEM education and hands-on learning.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the partnership between the high school science department and local organizations, which has provided students with real-world engineering experiences. Recent career exploration panels allowed students to engage with industry experts, enhancing their understanding of potential career pathways in fields related to bio-manufacturing and medical technology.

Lastly, the district announced an upcoming screening event for early learning services, scheduled for January 13, 2024, at Sandown Central. This initiative aims to identify children who may require special education services, with outreach efforts underway to ensure community awareness.

Overall, the meeting showcased the Timberlane Regional School District's dedication to providing diverse and enriching opportunities for its students, from outdoor adventures to academic and artistic achievements. The district continues to foster a supportive environment that encourages student growth and community engagement.