FAIRFIELD — More than 30 students graduated Friday from the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences on the campus of Good Will-Hinckley, marking the seventh graduation at the state’s first public charter school.

The students graduated Aug. 3 at Moody Chapel, with senior Cody Ellis leading their march. Senior Liam Smith delivered the evening’s speech, saying that while there were times he wanted to quit and drop out, he found the school to be a home, according to a news release from the school.

“I’ve enjoyed being part of this program because not only have I made a difference in my own life while being here, but I’ve made a difference in other people’s lives as well,” Smith said in the release. “I’ve been able to really grow into my own skin, mature, and help other people find their way to maturing, and to redirect my peers as well as myself in the right direction.”

The ceremony also featured Karen Kusiak, a former member of the board who is running for state office, and Sen. Scott Cyrway, R-Benton, who addressed the graduates together.

The ceremony ended with Tonya Arnold, the head of school, giving out awards to MeANS students.

“While school can be a place of hurdles and hoops, you have been sparks of wonder within it,” Arnold said in the news release. “Strive to be mindful of nature as well as the people around you who see things differently, and be open enough to listen for understanding.”


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