Sen. Vitelli attends ribbon cutting of new outdoor learning space at Morse High School

Posted: October 25, 2024 | Senator Vitelli

BATH – On Wednesday, October 23, Sen. Eloise Vitell, D-Arrowsic, attended the ribbon cutting of the new outdoor learning space at Morse High School in Bath. The space includes a performance stage and amphitheater, a greenhouse, and a raised bed garden for pollinators.

“I am truly delighted to see this exciting new space at the school, which will benefit the students, faculty, and staff — as well as the entire community,” said Sen. Vitelli. “Although we are fortunate to live in a district that has an abundance of beautiful outdoor spaces, ranging from coastlines to forests, we all live busy lives, and it can be difficult to find time to go outside. That is why it is critical that we build outdoor time into the routine and schedule of the school day. I am confident this new space will help these young Mainers forge a deep connection with nature, whether it is getting their hands in the dirt, growing some vegetables or taking a break from staring at a screen all day long.”

Several civic and community organizations donated money to fund the project including the Rotary Club of Bath ($10,000), the Masonic Temple ($2,500), the Sunrise Rotary Club ($10,000), and the Biosophical Institute. American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds paid for the outdoor amphitheater, seating, walkways, materials, electrical wiring, and a heating system.


Morse High School Principal Eric Varney and Sen. Eloise Vitelli, D-Arrowsic, stand on the new stage, which was unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday. It could be used for movie nights for the community and concerts for the rock ‘n’ roll class students. Carpentry students from Bath Tech contributed their skills and time to the project. The new amphitheater is in the background. Gnome Landscaping contributed materials and skills to the project. It can seat almost the entire student body.

Sen. Eloise Vitelli and Morse High School science teacher Carolyn Nichols inspect the beehives at the apiary at Morse High School. Ms. Nichols used to invite her students to the hives at her home to learn about beekeeping, but she set up these hives at the school. Now her classes have access to 30 beekeeping suits. This year, the Morse High School Bee Club processed almost 400 pounds of honey, right inside the classroom.

Sen. Eloise Vitelli tours the new greenhouse at Morse High School. The greenhouse has electricity and heating, courtesy of electrician and HVAC technician Alex Crosby. The students will grow vegetables to sell at the Bath Farmers Market, provide for the school cafeteria, and donate to the local food bank. They might also grow seasonal plants, like mums, in the fall.

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