Hawthorne School

Both my children love this school. It provides a safe intimate learning environment for all students and the teachers are top notch, caring and communicative. Both of my children have been encouraged to accieve beyond the normal grade level requirements. Unfortuneately Hawthorne is due to close next year due to a dropping number of students in this school system. It has offered a unique and proven method of learning; small classes with lots of individual focus. It will be missed.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has received an outstanding education at Hawthorne school and continues to excel and exceed expectations on all state and federal testing. Numerous individuals working within the Maine educational system have commented on what an amazing school Hawthorne is. It is small, however, and because it is an older building (although meticulously maintained) lacks some of the amenities some parents feel necessary. What it does have is a core group of caring, competent teachers. I was a bit stunned by the negative slant of a previous review. Unfortunately, one of the current fifth grade classes is loaded with students who have major disciplinary problems. Every teacher who has had this class says it s the worst they've ever taught. I do think this is an anomalous situation, and that the entire school should not be dismissed because of it. Hawthorne is a great school.
—Submitted by a parent

Our child attended Hawthorne for 2 years. What a NEGATIVE learning experience! Disciplinary problems abounded in the school and we faced a lack of willingness and dedication on the part of the administration and a number of teachers to help children in academic need. The principal also served as the fifth grade teacher of the school.The school building is so old the bells did not work and the children needed to be bussed to a different school for gym since there is no area inside or outside of the school to use for PE. Academically this school seemed to be way below standard and left a great deal to be desired. The only positive thing I can say is that we learned a great deal as parents through this experience and now expect and demand a quality education and dedicated, caring teachers for our children!
—Submitted by a parent