Carleton Project principal speaks to Houlton Rotarians

5 years ago

HOULTON, Maine — On Monday, July 15, the Houlton Rotarians met for their weekly luncheon at Watson Hall. The lunch was followed by Chris Anderson’s guest speaker, Katie Good from the Carleton Project. Good, who previously taught sixth grade at Hodgdon Mill Pond School, recently started as the teaching principal for the private school.

The Carleton Project is an alternative school, servicing the local towns of southern Aroostook County. The school’s goal is to help high school students who are struggling with public schools, and guide them in the right direction to success and diplomas. The struggle could be for a variety of reasons, but at this private school, the teachers will build on the students strengths and guide them in a direction that works for each student individually. 

A common thread found in the students at Carleton Project is that they want to do well, but they just don’t know how. And with this alternative approach to education, they have seen great success in students transforming and succeeding with their futures.

The Carleton Project has qualified teachers and an in-house, licensed clinical therapist. The teachers give lessons in english, history, math, science, and music. Students are also able to partake in Region Two. They are guided in developing a one year visionary plan for after graduation, whether it be career or college oriented. The students are guided in job placement, in community involvement, in college prep, and in life in general. They are taught problem solving, time management, communication, and qualities of a good worker. They will also put in 200 hours at a workplace to learn hands on skills and best practices at a place of employment. The teachers help the students with the job placement based on interests and strengths.

This year, the Carleton Project had seven students graduate and receive diplomas. And after graduation, the school has an open door policy so any student can come back to check in, say hello, or ask for any advice needed as they begin to integrate into life after high school and into the community.

The Carleton Project is still accepting enrollment for this coming fall school year.