Students learn about careers at local companies

BRUNSWICK — Downeast Energy on Nov. 11 introduced 21 Jobs for Maine’s Graduates students to the energy industry at their headquarters. Students from Mt. Ararat High School participated in the career day as a part of JMG’s career readiness program.

While at Downeast Energy, the students had the chance to participate in a day of hands-on, interactive, career-based learning about jobs related to the energy industry: sales, delivery, technician service, customer service, safety and marketing.

In addition to learning about the energy industry, students had the opportunity to learn about the lumber industry at Hammond Lumber Co. While at Hammond the students learned about kitchen design and building material operations.

This year is the sixth time that Downeast has opened its facility as a real world classroom for JMG students. In the past, students from Morse High School in Bath, Lewiston Regional Technical Center, and Lincoln Academy in Damariscotta have spent time at Downeast Energy meeting the employees and learning about the training required for specific jobs and what the company looks for when hiring employees.

Brunswick after-school program recognized for community impact

BRUNSWICK — In late October, the Riverview-Brunswick 21st Century Community Learning Center was presented with the 2011 Maine After-School Network’s Exemplary Program Award. This annual award is based on statewide nominations and is linked to student progress, parent engagement and positive community impact.

This year’s award is the third time in four years that Riverview Foundation’s youth programs have been recognized as among the best in the state.

Riverview Foundation’s programming includes curriculum to support physical and mental health, promote success in school, encourage healthy choice making and fun with friends and family. Programs target out-of-school time hours for children and youth ages 6-18 year round. Outdoor learning, relaxation, cultural and artistic exploration, physical fitness and community service offer a blend of activities that build peer relationships and engage students with the world around them.

The Riverview/Brunswick 21st Century Community Learning Center also offers a uniquely designed science, technology, engineering and math curriculum, aligned with Maine educational standards and linked directly to Brunwsick School Department academic goals.

During the 2010-2011 school year, The Riverview-Brunswick 21st Century Community Learning Center operated 1,596 hours of programming, served 163 youth and provided $8,114 in scholarships to Brunswick families.