Events

June 23rd - Graduation

June 3rd - Family Fun Night: Piccirillo Sciencetelling

May 27th - Calais School Prom

May 4th & 5th - Urban Estuary Program
Many of our high school students had the privilege of participating in a two day workshop learning about urban estuaries. The first day included a trip to the Liberty Science Center where a group of ecological educators taught our students about the importance of healthy watersheds. The students participated in hands on activities that demonstrated how small land disturbances to natural conditions can translate into biological stresses and changes in stream ecology. The students became aware of the fact that to effectively protect and manage our watersheds, we must address the many sources of pollution including trash, factories, cars and sewage treatment plants. The Liberty State Science Center demonstrated the use of equipment used in taking water samples and dredging the river floors. The students then did experiments measuring the salinity of water using, tap water and tap water mixed with salt. What a way to become prepared for the 2nd day of our trip!!!

During the 2nd day of our trip, the students put everything they learned into action on the Katherine Walker, a U.S. Coast Guard cutter. With the staff from the Liberty Science Center, and the equipment used for the demonstrations, we dredged the bottom of the Hudson and East Rivers and took water samples. The students searched through mud (with gloves of course) for all types of sediments. They tested the water samples from the Hudson and East Rivers for salinity. The students explored the historic Katherine Walker including the bridge where the ships controls are located, the captains’ quarters, the crew quarters and the mess hall. Throughout the trip, we heard many phrases, such as; duck so you don’t hit your head, don’t trip over the rope, watch where you step, men’s head in the front, women’s head in the back (head is a bathroom on a ship), if your in the yellow you’re too close to the edge and can fall overboard and all men on deck (to get accounted for). The view of The Statue of Liberty, bridges, piers, sculptures, boats, and helicopters had everyone in awe as the pristine blue sky was a perfect backdrop for the sites. As we departed the ship, each student shook Commanding Officer Lieutenant Twomey’s hand. It was a trip that will always be remembered and we thank The Calais School Foundation for this opportunity. By Marjane Vitaletti and Karen Liberato

Saturday, September 19, 2009 - One Day, One School

The ‘One Day, One School’ program began as a good deed but turned into a good deal more. Created by Ace Gallagher, Scott Eveland and Rick Close, this program brings together tree professionals, school administrators, and volunteers who donate their services to trim and remove hazardous trees and limbs at no cost to the school thus providing safer school grounds. Calais became aware of this program through Lorraine Konopka, Arborist for the Town of Hanover, who provides a tree planting ceremony for our students each Arbor Day.

On Saturday, September 19, 2009, a crew from Bartlett Tree Service arrived and spent the day taking down two large oaks and pruning at least a dozen others.This model program is currently being launched nationally as a demonstration of how teamwork and leadership can make a huge difference for a community.