Building a Stronger Future for Our Students and Community
Our community is taking an important and forward-thinking step with the development of a new, consolidated Pre-K through 8 school. This project represents a critical investment in providing a high-quality, efficient, and equitable learning environment for all students—today and for generations to come. Crucially, this new facility is designed to align precisely with our approved Educational Specifications and directly supports the long-term goals outlined in our District Strategic Plan.
While our current school buildings have served us with distinction and are rich in history, they have significantly exceeded their intended lifespan. As a result, they present growing challenges in terms of safety, functionality, and the ability to support modern educational standards.
Extensive evaluations have shown that the cost of renovating and upgrading these aging facilities to meet current safety and educational codes is prohibitively high. After careful consideration, it is clear that such an investment would not be fiscally responsible or sustainable for our community.
We are therefore proud and excited to share that this vital project will be made possible through a state-funded capital construction program—contingent on the successful passage of a local referendum. The State’s recognition and support underscores the pressing need to replace our outdated infrastructure with a facility that meets the needs of 21st-century education.
The vision for the new PK-8 school is clear: to create a safe, inclusive, and innovative learning environment that promotes academic excellence, supports collaboration, and strengthens community engagement. Our goal is to ensure that every dollar invested delivers lasting value and impact, ensuring the school is a true reflection of our educational goals.
This new school will not only enhance educational outcomes but also serve as a cornerstone of pride and opportunity for the towns of Burnham, Detroit, and Pittsfield for many years to come.
🥳 BIG NEWS: New School Site is APPROVED! 🏗️
The future of learning in MSAD53 is officially one huge step closer!
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that the State of Maine Department of Education has granted site approval for our new PK-8 school construction project!
This major milestone means we can officially move forward with the detailed design and planning phases. This isn't just a new building; it's a foundation for generations of students to succeed!
What's Next?
💡 Building Concept Design
👥💬 Community Forum - date coming soon
THANK YOU!
A massive thank you to our incredible community in Burnham, Detroit and Pittsfield, our School Board, and everyone who has supported this project. Your commitment to our students is what made this possible!
Slideshow from Community Update & Straw Poll:
Slideshow from our opening staff day:
Thank you to Skowhegan Superintendent Jon Moody for the opportunity to tour your new school construction project in progress! We are so excited for what lies ahead for MSAD53!