News + Events

March 2025

Dear Friends & Supporters,

At this time of year, all of us know the comfort of entering a warm place after we have been out in the cold. Each day, our LW students step into a welcoming space where they are known, challenged, and valued. We are fortunate to have talented staff members who do many things well. Their efforts to sustain a nurturing learning environment are essential to the success of our diverse programs. Ultimately, our agency’s positive impact stems from the warm, caring relationships we establish with each individual learner.

Are you interested in experiencing the gracious spirit of LearningWorks? If so, we would be thrilled to host you. Please send a request to eweaver@learningworks.me and we will arrange a visit for you and/or a small group of your friends. We are grateful for the individuals, foundations, partners, and corporations who support our mission and programs. Rest assured that we will continue to create a place of welcome that ignites the full potential of the learners we serve.

Peace,

Thomas McLaughlin, Executive Director

LearningWorks After School

LWAS Biddeford explored animal adaptations and habitats, then conducted hands-on experiments about both. Parents and caregivers joined their students for a visit from Sparks Ark, a wildlife rehabilitation organization, about various Maine animals. Students also participated in the Maine “Read to ME” Statewide Challenge and enjoyed a variety of guest readers.

LWAS Portland sites have been engaged in a variety of activities. Rowe students have been learning about engineering and lighting. Ocean Avenue students learned about and constructed their own pulley systems. Presumpscot students learned about acoustics and then practiced with kazoos, cup and string “telephones,” and homemade sound amplification tools.

LWAS Saco students have been learning about the plants and animals of the Galapagos Islands. They have enjoyed Lego and chemistry clubs, and look forward to starting new clubs soon. They also completed a variety of Valentine’s Day-themed STEM activities.

LWAS Waterboro students are creating their own books. They have learned about important story elements and are incorporating them into their final drafts. When complete, they will share “published” copies of their books.