PORTLAND — Lyman Moore Middle School teacher Sean Wasson is hoping to demonstrate that computer science is about collaboration, problem-solving and creativity. Not to mention a whole lot of fun, he said. Wasson and fellow computer science teacher Aaron Rog will celebrate National Computer Science Education Week with the second annual Family Code Night event, scheduled […]

PORTLAND — The Department of Public Works is expected to be operating in new offices at 212 Canco Road by the end of the week. City Hall spokeswoman Jessica Grondin said the move from 55 Portland St. began Monday. Grondin said staff will not have direct access to office phones during the move, but the public can […]

PORTLAND — A proposed revision to the redevelopment of the former Portland Co. property at 58 Fore St. could also lead to redrawing its historic district boundaries. A change in boundaries to the historic district encompassing about half the site would require City Council approval. On Wednesday, the city’s Historic Preservation Board will hold its first […]

PORTLAND — The holiday season gets brighter with three lighting events early next month. On Sunday, Dec. 2, the fourth annual StarLights tree lighting will take place at Mercy Hospital’s Fore River campus. Spokesman Andy Soucier said lights will adorn a dozen trees, with bulbs available for purchase for $10 at https://bit.ly/2P4cUuv to remember loved ones. Proceeds will go […]

PORTLAND — Annual City Council district meetings begin next week, each hosted by a councilor. The meetings are public and offer a chance for residents to discuss neighborhood issues and concerns. The meeting schedule is District 1, hosted by Councilor Belinda Ray, Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m., East End Community School, 195 North St.; District 2, […]

PORTLAND — The Winter Farmers’ Market returns to the gym of the former Maine Girls’ Academy on Saturday, Dec. 1. Mary Ellen Chadd of the Portland Farmers’ Market Association said the market, at 631 Stevens Ave., will be open Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through April 20. It will offer products from more than 20 farmers. […]

PORTLAND — A $5,000 grant will help Maine Behavioral Healthcare’s Trauma Intervention Program spread holiday cheer this season. The Secret Santa grant announced Nov. 19 by the city means TIP members and city police can work together to help families in financial distress. TIP volunteers have been working with police since 2005, TIP Program Manager Leslie Skillin […]

PORTLAND — The Portland Fire Museum, 157 Spring St., will host visits from Santa Claus from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Dec. 1, 8 and 15. Capt. John Brennan said visitors can also view two holiday scenes set up inside museum horse stalls, featuring more than 20 ceramic firehouses, and animated figures that sing and dance. Parents are […]

PORTLAND — Roberto Rodriguez will become the new School Board chairman after a Dec. 3 inauguration ceremony at City Hall. One of the first things he and his board colleagues may have to deal with is concern from some parents who believe the School Department may not follow through on plans to renovate four elementary schools. […]

PORTLAND — Chronic absenteeism leads to a significant loss in learning time, which often puts students well behind their peers in terms of gaining knowledge and key academic skills. The issue can be exacerbated by cultural and language barriers, as well as logistical difficulties, including transportation, the care of younger children while getting older ones to […]