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February 2025
Youth Mental Health First Aid: March 15th in Lancaster
 
Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs
of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 12-18..

 
Similar to physical First Aid and CPR, YMHFA helps you assist someone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis until professional assistance is obtained or the crisis is resolved.
 
Youth Mental Health First Aiders learn a 5-step Action Plan to recognize warning signs of a mental health or substance use challenge, provide help in crisis and non-crisis situations and understand where to turn for additional assistance.
 
 
The course covers:
  • Common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in this age group, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD).
  • Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges.
  • How to interact with a child or adolescent in crisis.
  • How to connect the youth with help.
  • Expanded content on trauma, substance use, self-care and the impact of social media and bullying.
Cost:  Free
 
Date/Time: March 15, 2025 from 9:00 - 5:00
 
Location: Granite State Room, North Country Resource Center, 629 Main Street, Lancaster, NH
 
Registration deadline: March 1st
 
Register: Online
 
More information

 
First Annual North Country Theater Festival
theater image
The first annual North Country Theater Festival is set to take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Berlin Elementary School, State Street, Berlin, NH. The festival is both a showcase and a competition for school theater programs in the North Country. Programs from Berlin, Gorham, Lancaster, Lisbon, and Stratford are set to participate in the debut of the festival. 
 
The festival's emphasis will be to showcase the talents of students from area middle schools and high schools. Students will see the plays of the other programs, discuss them, and meet students who share their interest in theater. 
 
Friendly competition can help bring out our best efforts, as such, the festival has a competitive portion as well. There will be awards given in both the middle school and high school divisions for the best performance by an actor or actress, an award for the best ensemble, the best technical production, and an award for best show.
 
There are different ticket options for attendees. For additional information, contact Brian Oberti at boberti@sau3.org.
 

 
Save-the-Date
 
Registration will be open soon once a few more details are confirmed. 

 
 
Early Childhood Screening Day
screening flyer image
 
Do you want to learn more about your child's development and gain valuable resources and skills to support their growth in social-emotional, physical and cognitive milestones?
 
Join this FREE community screening event, for children ages 1 month- 5.5 years of age, featuring FUN, engaging activities for your children, free resources, and the support of local professionals. Please sign up in advance at https://bit.ly/40IyZGO
 

 
Free PD from NHSTE
little bytes logo
Join like-minded colleagues on the 1st Tuesday of the month (usually) at 4:00pm for "LITTLE BYTES"!!!
 
Each month, NHSTE presents a 30-minute in depth review of just ONE tech concept to help you!
 
Each LITTLE BYTE includes a 20 minute overview, 3 ideas, tips, or tools you can use immediately, and 10 minutes for Q&A and sharing.
 
 
The NH School Scoop: The Tech Behind the Text
Presenter: Bill Carozza

Date/Time: February 4, 2025 from 4:00-4:30
 
Bill launched The NH School Scoop last summer as a quick and easy way for New Hampshire educators and families to stay informed about education news in the state. Since then, The NH School Scoop has reached 10,000 views and gained nearly 400 subscribers across 20 states and four countries.
 
What’s the secret behind this Substack? RSS technology. This LITTLE BYTE will break down how RSS works, along with other tech tips to help you navigate the overwhelming flow of digital information. Plus, we’ll review some of the key issues currently shaping education in the Granite State.
 
Register here by 9:00pm on Monday, February 3rd to receive the Zoom invite.
 
Coming up for March 4th, NotebookLM Conversations: A new AI Strategy for engaging your students in content ~ prepared for you by Gaby Harrington.
 

 
 
 
NHEEP Summer Institute
Define, Design and Do! Climate Solutions in Your Community
 
summer logoHow can you integrate real-world problem solving, joy, and impactful climate solutions into our schools and communities? Come work and play with NHEEP/VEEP in the White Mountains of NH as they approach these questions together. Along with expertise from VEEP/NHEEP you will gain insights from several of our Youth Climate LeadersMindSpark Learning, which specializes in problem-based learning to prepare students for the modern workforce, as well as the fabulous cohort of skilled educators like yourself who choose to participate in the program. You will plan a curriculum that cultivates hope and brings students meaningful learning opportunities to tackle relevant climate solutions for their community. Open to all educators, any grade, any subject.
 
Participants will: 
  • Figure out how to make climate learning problem-based, hands-on and accessible to all students
  • Become comfortable using student-driven learning practices in any subject as modeled through the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
  • Find locally relevant, hopeful, solutions-focused learning opportunities related to climate and energy
  • Practice finding a pathway to action while navigating specific standards, constraints, and circumstances
Sign up by May 1st to receive early bird pricing and save your district or organization $100 on the course fee. Here’s what some of past participants had to say about the Summer Institute program, and here’s a flyer if you want to help spread the word. Scholarships are available to NH and VT teachers– contact NHEEP/VEEP for more information at info@veep.org.
 
Register:  Online

 
Local Food for Local Schools Purchasing Incentive Pilot Program
farm to school logoAre you a New Hampshire school interested in purchasing local food for your cafeteria? Apply to be in the first cohort of schools part of the Local Food for Local Schools Purchasing Incentive Pilot Program.

The pilot program, administered by the NH Department of Agriculture, Markets, and Food, is currently accepting applications, with a deadline to apply of February 12, 2025 at 2PM.

Learn more

 
New Hampshire Middle School Science Fair
Date: May 22, 20025
 
Location: NHTI, Concord, NH
 
Who can participate in NHSEE - Middle School Expo?
 
To participate in NHSEE - Middle School, students need to meet the following conditions:
1.    Be a resident of NH, even if they are going to a school that is not in NH.
2.    Or be attending a public or private school in NH, even if they live outside of NH.
3.    Or be Home-schooled in NH.
4.    And be in Grades 5 to 8.
 
Learn more

 
Poetry Out Loud
POL logo 20 years
Now in its twentieth year, Poetry Out Loud is a dynamic national recitation contest (it’s free!) that encourages high school students to explore and embrace poetry. If your school is interested in joining POL this year, please register. Once registered, the NH State Council on the Arts will reach out with a wide array of free resources, including a teacher’s guide, lesson plans, and a comprehensive anthology of poems. 
 
Not convinced? Here’s a few reasons why you should consider POL:
 
  1. Engage Students with Literature: Poetry Out Loud brings poetry to life, helping students connect with the material in a personal and meaningful way.
  2. Boost Confidence: The act of reciting poetry in front of an audience builds students’ self-assurance and enhances their public speaking abilities.
  3. Foster Critical Thinking: Students learn to analyze and interpret complex texts, deepening their understanding and appreciation of language.
  4. Encourage Creative Expression: The program offers a platform for students to express themselves creatively, finding their unique voice through the art of poetry.
  5. Build a Sense of Community: Participating in Poetry Out Loud contests at the local, state, and national level fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among students.
 This is a wonderful chance to inspire your students and encourage them to step into the world of poetry in a fun and engaging way. The NH POL state coordinators are available to make the program as easy as possible for you to integrate and are happy to answer questions anytime.
 
Learn more at https://www.poetryoutloud.org/
 

 
Traveling Smithsonian Exhibit in Jefferson from March-May
The Jefferson Historical Society (JHS) is very pleased to announce that they will be hosting (in conjunction with the New Hampshire Humanities Council and local partners the Town of Jefferson, the Marc A Hurzerler M.D. Library, and the Heartwood Public Charter School) a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution: "Crossroads: Change in Rural America". 
 
JHS is very interested in having school groups visit the exhibit, which highlights the evolving landscape of rural America.  Designed for small-town museums, libraries, and cultural organizations, "Crossroads" will serve as a community meeting place for conversations about how rural America has changed.  The focus of the exhibit is to raise people's understanding about their own history, the joys and challenges of a living rural life, how change has impacted their community, and to prompt discussion of goals for the future.  This interactive exhibit is most appropriate for 4th grade and higher but all are welcome to attend.  
 
The exhibit will be at the Jefferson Community Center (former elementary school), 178 Meadows Rd., Jefferson, NH 03583 from Saturday, March 29th through Saturday, May 11, 2025.  They plan to be open 40 hours per week (closed Sundays) and are willing to work with schools on whatever hours are convenient for them for a visit.  Admission is free to the exhibit.  
 
Since the JHS is an all volunteer organization the best way for schools to arrange a visit is to call Adele Woods at (603)723-5540. 

Drinking Water Festival & Science Fair
2025 Drinking water festival and water poetry
 
The NH Drinking Water Festival and State Water Science Fair Finals is now open to both 4th and 5th graders! The Water Poetry Contest is open to 3rd through 5th graders!
 
 
Learn more at https://nhwaterfestival.org/

 
Maple Sugaring Teacher Professional Development
sugaringJoin NH 4-H Agsploration to explore New Hampshire’s (NH) natural resource the Maple Tree (Acer saccharum) and the tradition of maple sugaring. These iconic trees have a story to tell, and we will explore that through the hands-on, inquiry-based curriculum “Maple Tales”. NH 4-H Educator AGsploration is a professional development experience for elementary teachers (3rd-5th grade). With support from 4-H educators, teachers will experience a real world lens into climate change, forest ecology, and more building the knowledge and understanding of how incorporating food, agriculture, renewable natural resources and the environment (FARNE) in the classroom increases agricultural literacy and ignites a student’s curiosity. Visit the website for a full list of teacher benefits, NGSS standards covered, and a sample lesson. Contact megan.glenn@unh.edu with questions and inquiries.
 
Teacher Benefits
Receive yearlong professional development and mentoring 
Receive a $1,200 stipend 
Earn a classroom curriculum kit valued at $875 
Collaborate with 4-H program and field specialists 
Teach a locally relevant science curriculum 
Connect with other teachers 
Receive a $1,800 stipend to attend Ag In The Classroom Conference June 23 – 26, 2025 in Minneapolis, MN 
 
Successful applicants must be able to attend the following workshop dates
  • March 11, 2025, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Concord, NH
  • March 18, 2025, 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Concord, NH
  • July 28, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Concord, NH
  • September 23, 2025, 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Zoom)
  • December 9, 2025,  3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Zoom)
  • February 10, 2025,  3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Zoom)
 
Learn more at https://extension.unh.edu/new-hampshire-4-h/pathways/environmental-science/educator-agsploration

 
Mikva Challenge for Civic Engagement
Mikva’s four main program areas involve young people in civic engagement through hands-on, project-based learning that deeply transforms students’ civic attitudes, skills, and sense of agency. Mikva's four programs are:
 
  • Project Soapbox, public speaking for K-12
  • Issues to Action
  • Elections in Action
  • Student Voice Committees
 
Learn more about the Mikva Challenge in NH at https://www.nhcivics.org/our-work/teachers-students/mikva-challenge/
 
The NH Partner Site Director is Amanda Maguire, amandam@mikvachallenge.org
 

 
Nominations open for Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching
The PAEMST is the Nation's Highest Honors for Teachers of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM, including Computer Science). Do you know an excellent 7-12 STEM teacher deserving of recognition from the White House? Nominate them for the PAEMST Award for this school year. K-6 teachers will be recognized in the 2025-26 school year.
 
Learn more at https://paemst.nsf.gov/nomination/nominate?awardYear=2025

 
NH Possible
NH Possible logo
 
There has never been a better time to enter the public discourse and focus Granite Staters on what’s possible in our state. NH Possible envisions a state where individuals, families, communities, and businesses all have what they need to thrive, including a sense of belonging, opportunities for civic engagement, optimal health, and access to educational and financial opportunity.
 
NH Possible is working to provide a unifying space for people who don’t usually work together to find a common cause.
 
Learn more at https://www.nhpossible.org/

 
UNH Extension Master Wellness Volunteer
The UNH Extension Master Wellness Volunteer Program is an opportunity for adults to engage in learning sessions focused on creating community change for health. This unique program allows participants to connect with others as they build their toolbox for impacting individual and community health factors, environments, and systems. The program helps build diverse, multigenerational, cross-sector coalitions that can recognize and address systemic health inequities. If you are interested in creating Healthy Communities in NH this program is for you!
 
Participants will have to complete 20 hours of core training, followed by 10 -20 hours of specialized pathway training that they can choose to participate in. After training, participants will become official Master Wellness Volunteers and asked to complete 40 hours of volunteer work per year during the first year. 
 
2025 Training Dates
  • 6-week core VIRTUAL training: Tuesdays, 2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25 from 6:00 - 7:15 PM
  • Followed by 10-20 hours of specialized Pathway training in April & May 2025 (exact dates TBD)
 
Learn more

 
UNH Tech for Teachers Institute, July 14-25
The UNH Tech for Teachers Institute is a dynamic, paid professional development program open to middle and high school teachers from across all STEM subject areas. The focus of the program is two-fold: Building knowledge of an emerging technology—this year regenerative medicine and biofabrication—and the transformation of instructional practice through project-based learning. 
 
The Institute will take place July 15-26 on the UNH Durham campus. Upon completion, participants will receive a $1,500 award, CEUs, classroom supplies and ongoing support from UNH faculty and graduate students.
 
Learn more
 

 
NHCF Scholarships
The NH Charitable Foundation is now accepting applications for the Student Aid program. In order to qualify, a student just needs to live in NH and be pursuing some sort of post-secondary education. There is a single online application; in completing just one application a student is considered for all of the NHCF funds for which they are eligible.
 
Important dates to keep in mind:
 
  • Dependent bachelor’s candidates and all graduate students must apply by Friday, April 11 at 5:00 pm ET.
  • All other students (independent bachelor’s candidates, associate degree candidates, certificate candidates, students in an apprenticeship or licensing program, etc.) can apply on a rolling deadline through December 12 at 5:00 pm ET.
Each year, the NHCF awards more than $8 million in scholarships to help New Hampshire students with the fewest resources and most promise realize their educational goals, whether it’s a two- or four-year college degree, certificate, or professional license.
 
Learn more at www.nhcf.org/scholarships 
 

 
NHCTE Spring Conference
conference page
 
Learn more

 
And from our partners at WMSI...
WMSI Feb camps
 
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valentines event
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Adult event

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
birth to 3 logo
Every day across New Hampshire, infants and toddlers are learning new skills, but they learn and grow at their own pace. Parents or other caregivers who have concerns about an infant’s or toddler’s development can get coaching and support through the New Hampshire Birth to 3 early intervention program. 
 
Anyone can refer a Family Centered Early Supports & Services.
 
Learn more at dhhs.nh.gov/BirthTo3 or call 603-271-4488.
  

 
 
 
 
 
 
North Country Neighbors - Stronger Together
 
CBH webpage home
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Support the mission of NCES
 
Your tax deductible donation will support NCES' mission. NCES collaborates with public schools and community partners to support excellent and equitable educational opportunities throughout the North Country. 
 
NCES seeks exceptional educational experiences and realized potential for all students.
 
NCES believes that thriving schools are at the heart of vibrant communities!
 
The core values of NCES:
 
NCES Core Values
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contact Information
 
North Country Education Services
300 Gorham Hill Road
Gorham, NH 03581
ncedservices.org 
603-466-5437 
nces@ncedservices.org
 
NCES  is an equal opportunity employer and provider.
 
 
North Country Education Services  |  300 Gorham Hill Road  |  Gorham, NH 03581  |  http://www.ncedservices.org
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