NFI North Schools Winter Newsletter 2026

THE NFI NORTH ACADEMIC NEWSLETTER

Principal’s Message

to define our school communities.

Winter brings its own set of challenges: shorter days, colder weather, and changes in routine, but it also offers opportunities for reflection, connection, and renewal. I am continually inspired by our students’ willingness to show up each day, practice new skills, and work through challenges with courage and determination. Their academic, social, and emotional progress is a testament to their hard work and the unwavering support of our dedicated staff and families.

Our teams remain deeply committed to creating a safe, supportive, and responsive learning environment where every student is known, valued, and supported. Whether through individualized instruction, therapeutic supports, vocational experiences, or moments of joy and connection, we are proud of the meaningful work happening every

Thank you to our staff for the compassion, professionalism, and heart you bring to this work. Together, we are building not only skills,

Wishing you warmth, wellness, and peace throughout the winter

BRIDGE CROSSING

Bridge Crossing Academy has been having fun inside and outside of the classroom!

Our classrooms at Bridge Crossing Academy have been buzzing with academic rotations and small-group learning, and the growthwe’reseeing is exciting! Students are moving through targeted learning stations that meet them right where they are, whetherthat’sstrengthening reading skills, tackling new math strategies, or building confidence through hands-on practice. Thesesmall groupingsallow for individualized instruction, meaningful feedback, and lots of “aha!” moments as students makereal academicgains.

But learningdoesn’tstop at a desk in the classroom! This month,we’rethrilled to highlight a community partnership with G45, a local gym,that’shelping our students discover something powerful: movement helps us feel better physically, emotionally, and mentally. Through guided activities, students are learning how moving their bodies can support focus, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being. From stretching and strength to fun, energizing movement, these experiencesare helpingstudents connect how their bodies and brains work together.

By combining strong academics, intentional small-group instruction, and healthy movement,we’resupporting the whole childand watching our learners grow in confidence, resilience, and joy.We’reso proud of their hard work and grateful for community partners who help make these experiences possible!

NFI North Bridge Crossing Academy extends sincere thanks to the Bridgton Knights of Columbus for their generous donation. Their continued support helps us provide meaningful resources to our students and families, and we’re grateful for their partnership in our community.

BEACON HOUSE

Beacon students are exploring Biology and the United Nations!

With the holiday break having come and gone, we are returning to engage in studie that are both demanding and worthy of the effort. We are exploring topics including cellular biology, the creation of the United Nations, and rational number calculation In English Language Arts, students are diving into Greek mythology and analyzing t element of suspense in short stories Report cards and MLR progress reports are going out next week, at which time we will be doing NWEA testing as well

A highlight of the work they are doing this semester is their Sustainable City projec Government The project involved drawing a map or designing a model that addresses social, economic, and ecological sustainability through the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They were required to blend creative, artistic, and analytical skills to demonstrate how a community can thrive while reducing its environmental impact. We had two teams and each student presented 57 goals. Everyone presented and all students met expectations!

Within the context of these subjects, students are working on improving their organization and study habits We are seeing significant emerging organizational skills in some students who are growing in their ability to independently begin tasks and organize materials.Students are showing growth in their commitment to accademics by doubling their time in attendance over recent weeks. Some are arriving more focused and eager to participate, even in challenging subjects.

As with all students who attend schools like ours, navigating behavioral challenges is the focus. The nature of this treatment is difficult, but we help students improve their own self-advocacy and emotional regulation. Our students are learning to identify coping strategies to manage energy and frustration

We are always looking ahead and believe every student is capable of excellence when challenged in a supportive and safe space As always, thank you to our residential team at large for their continued support in reinforcing the importance of school attendance and consistent participation

SIDNEY RIVERBEND

Sidney Riverbend Students are getting ready for their new elective courses!

Across our classrooms, students have been engaged in meaningful and thoughtful learning experiences. High School English students explored the theme of civil rights and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, while Middle School English focused on the Holocaust, emphasizing the importance of remembering history and understanding the consequences of intolerance. In Earth Science, students investigated rocks and the processes involved in Earth’s formation, while Biology students examined the structure and function of cells. Poetry students experimented with slam poetry, learning how voice, tone, and mood can enhance and transform writing. Health students focused on caring for their bodies through nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices.

In Social Studies, High School students studied the revolutions of the 18th and 19th centuries leading up to the outbreak of World War I. Middle School Social Studies students are currently studying civics and reinforcing their learning through iCivics games connected to lessons on government. Algebra students are studying functions and graphing, while Middle School Math students are learning about linear equations and slope. These classes utilize the new Reveal Math textbooks along with the IXL Math program, which aligns with the Reveal curriculum. Our Current Events class is concluding for the semester, and students have been enthusiastic about watching CNN 10 and engaging in discussions about current events. Next semester, we will be starting our new elective courses. Students were given the opportunity to select two electives from the following options: Personal Finance, Holocaust Studies, Dystopian Book Club, and Media Literacy. We are very excited to begin offering these new electives.

We are also pleased to welcome Kristina Bonney as our new Ed Tech III/BHP. Kristina has previously worked at SRB, and we are happy to have her rejoin our team. She holds a master’s degree in school counseling.

Sidney Riverbend Teachers and Educational Technicians participated in a professional development session focused on implementing The Regulated Classroom within the existing school-day schedule. Staff members learned about the foundational concepts of the program and actively participated in several of its four core activities.

STETSON RANCH

Stetson Ranch students stayed busy and connected all season long!

Winter may have brought snow and cold, but our school community stayed busy, connected, and energized all season long! Students and staff embraced the winter months with hands-on learning, outdoor adventures, and strong collaboration.

Our school team Jim, Peyton, Wally, Aimee, and Kate worked together to keep learning active and engaging. Jim and Peyton kicked off planning the garden and greenhouse, involving students in hands-on science activities connected to sustainability and food systems. Jim also led volunteer projects with community partners such as Finson, giving students meaningful opportunities to give back and make a positive impact. Outdoor Education was in full swing thanks to Joe, Maine Guide, who led students through exciting winter activities like fly tying and cooking over an open fire. These experiences helped build practical skills, confidence, and teamwork.

Breanna Dorman, Compass Educator, supported students with job coaching, interview preparation, and skillbuilding as they worked toward greater independence and adulthood. Wally remained a strong presence in vocational training, sharing his experience and steady guidance. This season also marked Wally’s retirement. His many years of dedication and positive impact on students and staff will be long remembered, and he will truly be missed. We’re grateful that he will continue to support the program as a per-diem staff member. We also want to recognize JJ and Wes for diving into their blended roles this season. Thank you, JJ, for ensuring strong communication between shifts and helping maintain consistency and continuity for students throughout the day. Thank you, Wes, for the care, effort, and focused attention you bring to supporting students as they work—your presence makes a meaningful difference. Inside the classroom, Kate and Aimee brought academics to life through creative and accessible lessons in life skills, literature, and math. Their engaging approach made learning relatable, fun, and meaningful. We’re heading into the next season strong and excited for what’s ahead!

Check out what our amazing students are doing!

NFI North provides mental health and behavioral support services to people facing life challenges We design diverse and innovative programs that provide a high level of support within communities of care when a person or family is in need Our goal is for people to grow, have hope, thrive in their community, and feel like they belong

ResidentialTreatmentPrograms forChildren

BeaconHouse,Buxton (IncludesOnsiteSchool)

BridgeCrossing,Bridgton

BridgeCrossingAcademy,Bridgton SpecializedEducationK-8)

OliverPlace,Bath

SidneyRiverbend,Sidney IncludesOnsiteSchool

StetsonRanch,Stetson IncludesOnsiteSchool

SummitView,Bangor

ResidentialTreatmentPrograms forAdults

Intermission,Lewiston (ages18–25)

MillerTerraces,Bangor FinsonRoad,Bangor (ages60+)