I was pleased to see that Poland Spring water company recently donated $500,000 to the Maine Community College System as part of a $10 million capital campaign. These funds will strengthen our community colleges, and prepare more people for the jobs of tomorrow.

This investment proves what a valuable partner in education Maine businesses can be. From supporting the young people at the K-12 level in my school district, to those continuing on to achieve a post-secondary education at a local community college, Poland Spring has always stepped up to help.

A large group of sixth-grade students from RSU 16 spent three days at Ferry Beach Ecology School in Saco, thanks to a generous donation by Poland Spring. During this three-day hands-on, adventure-based learning experience, students explored science topics such as field ecology, weather forecasting, plant and animal identification, astronomy and organic gardening. This educational trip was a unique opportunity for students to learn about resource stewardship and sustainability in a beautiful oceanfront setting.

This type of hands-on, experiential learning is an essential part of a comprehensive educational system. RSU 16 is fortunate to have Poland Spring as a community partner. It has supported us in many ways through the years. I am very proud that the company is going even further in its endorsement of education by contributing to the community colleges.

Dennis J. Duquette, Poland, RSU 16 superintendent