CHS Report

Carrabec High School – January Board Report
Bruce Dostie, Principal

Happy New Year. As we move into 2026, Carrabec High School continues to offer students a wide range of meaningful academic, co-curricular, and experiential learning opportunities. While many things are going well, we also recognize that there is significant work ahead. Our progress is the result of a dedicated staff committed to continuous improvement and supporting students through a variety of challenges.

Outdoor Leadership Program
The Outdoor Leadership program remains a strong example of experiential learning at Carrabec. Students participate in overnight canoeing and fishing trips, day-long mountain hikes, and instruction in survival and outdoor skills. These experiences promote responsibility, teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience—skills that extend well beyond the classroom. This program continues to provide opportunities that are uncommon in most high schools and reflects the commitment of staff to hands-on, meaningful learning.

Performing Arts
The Performing Arts program continues to rebuild and gain momentum. Through consistent effort and student commitment, these programs are becoming a stable and visible part of school culture once again. Students are engaging in performances that require discipline, collaboration, and confidence, and participation continues to grow. This progress reflects sustained work by Ms. Taylor and her students to reestablish high-quality performing arts opportunities at Carrabec.

On December 16th, the Winter Concert was a strong example of this growth. Students performed confidently and professionally, and the quality of the performance reflected the time, preparation, and commitment put in by both students and staff. It was well attended and showcased the positive direction of the program.

Academic Support – ELA, Social Studies, and Science
Our ELA, Social Studies, and Science departments are working intentionally to address learning gaps that exist for many students due to a range of circumstances. Teachers are adjusting instruction, providing targeted support, and meeting students where they are academically. This work is ongoing and challenging, but staff continue to approach it with professionalism, flexibility, and a clear focus on student growth.

Physical Education – Learning Beyond the Gym
On December 8th, students from Mr. Kaplan’s Lifetime Fitness class participated in a field trip to the State Theater in Portland. Carrabec alumni Boog (Troy) Dunphy, Class of 2014 and General Manager of the theater, led students through the facility and discussed career pathways in the entertainment and hospitality industries.  Students gained insight into the skills needed for success in any field, including reliability, punctuality, attention to detail, willingness to learn, and maintaining a positive attitude. The visit was highly engaging and provided a strong real-world connection to the goals of the Physical Education and Lifetime Fitness curriculum.

Wood & Metal Shop
The Wood and Metal Shop programs continue to provide students with practical, hands-on skills that are directly applicable to future employment, trades, and independent work. Students are learning tool safety, craftsmanship, planning, and problem-solving while producing tangible projects. These classes build confidence and reinforce the value of quality work, persistence, and responsibility.

Guidance Office
The Guidance Office remains a critical support system for our students. In addition to academic planning and post-secondary guidance, counselors support students’ social and emotional needs on a daily basis. Their work is essential in helping students navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and remain on track toward graduation and future goals.

Math Team
The Carrabec Math Team continues to work with advanced mathematical concepts and problem-solving strategies. Students consistently challenge themselves and build skills that extend beyond the standard curriculum. The team’s ongoing success reflects both student commitment and strong instructional support.

JMG Program – Community Impact and Carrabec Pride
This year, the JMG program raised a record-breaking amount for Santa’s Helpers, making a significant impact on families in need during the holiday season. The scale and success of this effort gained media attention and resulted in positive news coverage highlighting Carrabec pride, student leadership, and community involvement. This achievement reflects the dedication of students and staff and reinforces the importance of service-learning opportunities at Carrabec.

Athletics – Winter Season
Our winter athletic programs are underway and progressing well. Student-athletes are demonstrating commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship across all indoor programs. Coaches continue to emphasize effort, accountability, and growth as the season moves forward.

As we continue through the year, it is important to recognize both our successes and our challenges. We have a lot of work to do, particularly in addressing academic gaps and supporting student needs. However, the staff at Carrabec High School remains committed to doing that work—moving forward with purpose and pushing for steady improvement.

Thank you for your continued support of Carrabec High School.

GO COBRAS!!!