About 100 people gathered at Southport Central School for the ribbon cutting, dedication ceremony, and grand opening of the new natural woodland playground in honor of Ramona Thompson Gaudette, the school’s cook for 57 years. “Ramona helped feed the island’s children with kindness, laughter, and love, and an occasional ice pack when needed. It’s our great privilege to dedicate the Ramona Gaudette Mud Kitchen in her honor."

Principal Lisa Clarke has been named Educator of the Year in the Boothbay Region 2024. The award, presented by the Boothbay Harbor Chamber of Commerce, recognizes excellence in teaching practices that reflect the highest standards within and outside the classroom, the ability to inspire, promote and sustain the intellectual development of students and to guide them to become problem solvers and collaborative workers. Lisa’s passion for education and leadership inspire all of those around her.

When Garry Blackman found out that the sound system used by students at Southport Central School was failing, he offered to replace it. He mentioned the idea to his Knights of Pythias lodge members, and the idea to support the school got a green light. The idea of being helpful to others in the community is a well-intended and longstanding tradition for the lodge. The new sound equipment, which included huge speakers, new controller devices and a sophisticated mixing board, will be used for school activities and a talent show which is currently being planned.