Biddeford Schools
January 15, 2020
BHS Forms Unified Sports Club - Home Opener January 31
Biddeford High School (BHS) attempted to start this program on a couple of different occasions but fell short of participation goals. Fortunately, this year, along with Biddeford Middle School, they each have a full team. The BHS team will have 10 practices and eight games with the home opener on Friday, January 31st at 3:15 PM versus Massabesic High School.
"I've spoken with several principals about Unified Sports and they say it is the single best feel-good event their schools put on," said BHS Principal Jeremie Sirois. "I'm very excited that Biddeford will have a team. In fact, I'm so excited that I will be one of the referees during home games."
This is an exciting time for Biddeford Schools and we can't wait to see our athletes compete, but most of all, enjoy themselves. Please join us in celebrating these fantastic athletes by attending a future game listed on the BHS Athletics page.
BIS Band Students Reach a Higher Note
The Biddeford Intermediate School (BIS) Band has been working with the Gifted and Talented program to expand its students' musical talent. Recently a guest artist, Krystle Smith, was brought in to work directly with students who play the flute. Mrs. Smith taught four master classes during her visit (pictured here is BIS fifth-graders Lauren Small and Anna Smyth).
"This was an exciting opportunity for students to work with a professional flute player and to share in her love and passion for music and all things flute," said BIS band teacher Jillian Cote. "We look forward to collaborating with the Gifted and Talented Program in the district in the upcoming years and providing more opportunities for BIS Band members.
Matt Forcier ’05 Named “40 Under Forty”
Matt Forcier '05 is known for his infectious smile and personality. He attended Endicott College where he studied Communication with a Concentration in Journalism and worked with MTV's Real World for Season 23. The season took place in Washington, DC and he was a production assistant. He credits Tracy Chapman with hiring him and taking him under his wing to show him the ropes. Once that season was completed, Matt connected with Jamie Gagnon ’98 who owned a video production company called Lasting Memories Videotaping. He was able to film weddings throughout the Southern Maine area and they later became business partners.
Five years ago, Matt moved to Newburyport, MA and brought the company with him - LMV Productions. He currently lives in Newburyport with his wife Heather but never lost his passion for his alma mater. In a recent effort to showcase Biddeford Athletics, he produced a one-hour documentary of the 1994 BHS Football State Championship Season (see link below to full video).
FUN FACT: In 2017, Matt was named among the “40 under Forty” in a North of Boston Business Magazine
APC Students Evaluate Portraits at PMA
Last month, the Alternative Pathways Center (APC) students attended their 3rd annual trip to the Portland Museum of Art. APC teacher Didi Holt organized this enrichment opportunity and the exhibit was titled, "Seeing Each Other."
"Thanks again for bringing your students," said Portland Museum of Art Learning and Interpretation Coordinator. "It was a joy to have them here—all of the docents were gushing about what an energetic, observant, and fun group they were."
The enrichment opportunity focused on the following learning activity: What kinds of choices do artists make when depicting people and characters? How do artists represent mood or aura? Are portraits accurate? What role does portraiture play in the 21st century? As the students walked through the museum, they responded to visual clues and gathered information to explore these questions along with concepts of identity, narrative, and storytelling.
"For most of our students, this was the first time they had ever been to a museum," said APC Director Martha Jacques. "They were engaged in the exhibits and grateful for the experience. It was heartwarming to see their faces as they walked throughout the museum."
Now Hiring!
Substitute Teacher Pay Increases!
The Biddeford School Committee recently changed the wage for substitutes. Substitutes now start at $100 per day. Retired teachers can substitute for $120 per day. These are substantial increases and have already proven to be effective in attracting substitutes. Apply at the link below or contact Cathy Fecteau at 282-8281.
Now Hiring Students for Part-time Custodial Positions
Students 14-17 years old are now being hired to assist in filling custodial positions. Starting pay is $12.25 per hour with certified academic standing (a valid work permit). Apply at the link below or call Kerrie Edgerton at 282-8280.
Current Maine Labor Laws:
- 14 or 15-year olds (School day: max of 3 hours; Non-School day: max of 8 hours)
- 16 or 17-year olds (School day: max of 6 hours; Non-School day: max of 10 hours)
Please Join Us for the Biddeford Athletics Hall of Honor - Class of 2019 - Induction Ceremony
The Girls Varsity Basketball game vs. Falmouth will follow the ceremony at 7:00 p.m.