Investment in Oxford Hills Physical Education Program

The U.S. Department of Education has announced that the Oxford Hills School District (MSAD #17) has been selected to receive funding though the Carol M. White Physical Education Program, which awards grants to community-based organizations in an effort to initiate, expand, or improve physical education programs for students in grades K-12. MSAD #17 will be receiving $692,736 for the first year, and it is anticipated that it will be a 3 year program.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, Oxford Hills District #17 and Telstar School District MSAD #44 have developed a team to implement the "Body, Mind, & Spirit" project. The project will provide evidence-based nutrition education and Farm-to-School outdoor programming in partnership with the "UMaine Eat Well" program and the Healthy Maine Partnerships. The "UMaine Eat Well" program is a local organization dedicated to health and wellness of youth and families. The project will increase time dedicated to physical activity education. This will include professional development for physical education and health teachers and a model health and wellness program that will meet the needs of all students with focus on lifelong outdoor skills, nutrition, and exercise.

Investment in Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced that the Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport will receive a $600,000 grant through the Small Community Air Service Development Program. Rep. Michaud who wrote a letter of support for the airport's grant application has stated that the announcement is fantastic news because this investment will help the airport build on the good work already being done there, and will further improve the region's competitiveness and promote economic development.

"Investing in our infrastructure is one of the best ways to jumpstart job creation while at the same time providing long-term benefits for the community" he said.