MAINE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES

Maine Academy of Natural Sciences is a Title I public charter high school that is part of the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences school district, located in Hinckley, ME with about 178 students offering grade levels from 9th Grade to 12th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 12 teachers, Maine Academy of Natural Sciences has a student/teacher ratio of about 14:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

The Maine Academy of Natural Sciences (MeANS), located on the historic Good Will-Hinckley campus in Hinckley, Maine, is a unique public charter high school that emphasizes hands-on, student-centered learning. Founded on the principle that students thrive when connected to the environment, the school focuses heavily on agricultural, forestry, and environmental studies. Its curriculum integrates core academic requirements with experiential learning, allowing students to gain practical skills while fulfilling graduation standards in a way that respects diverse learning styles and individual interests.

What sets MeANS apart is its commitment to "place-based" education, where the surrounding woods, farms, and local community serve as an extension of the classroom. The school is specifically designed to support students who may benefit from a non-traditional environment, fostering a strong sense of community and personal responsibility. By blending rigorous academic preparation with vocational pathways and community service, the Maine Academy of Natural Sciences aims to empower students to become informed, active citizens who are well-prepared for post-secondary education or the modern workforce.

For more information, contact Maine Academy of Natural Sciences at (207) 238-4100 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.