On May 17, ninety fifth graders, twenty eighth graders, and twenty adult chaperones (teachers and parent volunteers) participated in the “Amazing Race of Gorham.”

This event is an annual event designed to foster community connections and real-world learning experiences for students in Gorham, Maine. This educational scavenger hunt brings together 5th-grade students from Village Elementary School and 8th-grade students from Gorham Middle School, as the older students mentor the younger ones as they navigate the Gorham Village area, visiting local businesses and engaging with community members.

The “Amazing Race of Gorham” is more than just a fun scavenger hunt. It is a strategic initiative to build community ties and provide students with valuable, authentic learning experiences. By interacting with local businesses and hearing their genuine stories, students gain insights into various careers and develop essential skills that will benefit them in their future endeavors.

There are four educational goals for the students as they participate:

• Business Awareness: Students learned about the various types of businesses that exist in the heart of Gorham.
• Employability Skills: Students were able to practice core employability skills such as appropriate greetings, eye contact, and clear communication.
• Career Insights: Students were able to learn key skills employers look for and explore different career paths.
• Community Engagement: The opportunity for positive connections with adult community members outside their immediate family and school environment.

The Gorham Schools and Aspire Gorham are grateful to the fourteen businesses who participated this year: Pogo Realty, Edward Jones Financial, Chalmers Insurance, Ferguson Enterprises. Harvey Performance, Otto Pizza, Norway Savings Bank, Great Falls Construction, Baxter Memorial Library, Town of Gorham, Inn at Village Square, Gorham Sand & Gravel, Sullivan House Bakery and Howell Labs.