May 2026

Hello Deering Families,

And just like that, we are just over a month away from the end of the 2025-26 school year. There is a palpable energy in the halls right now that reminds us why Deering is such a special place to learn and grow. Let’s keep that momentum going, finish the year strong, and celebrate everything that makes being a member of the Ramily so incredible!

Reflecting on our Success

• Academic Excellence & Scholarships: On April 16th, Deering celebrated the induction of 19 new National Honor Society members and honored 21 Junior Book Award recipients. These students were recognized with commemorative books from prestigious universities, including Harvard, Yale, Bowdoin, and Dartmouth, with several students also receiving significant scholarship funding to these historic institutions. 
• Science Olympiad State Champions: After a historic first-place finish at the Maine State Tournament, 15 talented students and their advisor, science teacher Cyle Davenport, are heading to the National Tournament in Los Angeles this May. The team is currently fundraising to support travel and equipment costs for this incredible opportunity to compete on the national stage. 
• Seal of Biliteracy Honors: We are proud to celebrate the 32 seniors who earned the Seal of Biliteracy this year, an achievement that recognizes their proficiency in multiple languages and their commitment to global communication. 
• Thank you for Prom Donations: We are incredibly grateful for the community’s generosity in making the Ramily Market a success and ensuring every student has the chance to shine this prom season. 
• Honoring Our Educators: Last week, we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week with daily treats and a staff lunch organized by the PTO. It was a wonderful opportunity for families and students to share their gratitude and recognize the commitment of our staff in their own unique ways. 
• A Night of Magic: On May 7th, the Deering Players presented a special, one night only staged reading of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The community gathered in the Auditorium for this enchanting performance, which featured "pay what you can" admission to ensure the event was accessible to everyone. It was a wonderful evening of student artistry and storytelling. 
• An Unforgettable Evening: On Saturday, May 9th, our juniors and seniors gathered at O’Maine Studio for the Masquerade Ball. It was a wonderful night of celebration for our students, who enjoyed the elegant atmosphere and the chance to come together as a community. We appreciate everyone who followed the eligibility guidelines to make this event a success. 

Upcoming Events

• Make It Happen Graduation Event: Celebrating Our Scholars. Please join us for the Make It Happen Graduation Event at Ocean’s Gateway from Wednesday, May 20th at 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. This is a special opportunity for our community to recognize the persistence and achievements of the students in this program as they prepare for their next steps.
• Spring Concert: Join the Music Department for an evening of performances on Wednesday, May 20th, at 6:30 PM in the Deering High School Auditorium to celebrate the hard work and talent of our student musicians. 
• Senior Awards Night: Join us for this annual tradition on Thursday, May 28th, at 6:00 PM as we honor our seniors with scholarships, medals, and certificates of achievement. All families, friends, and community members are invited to attend and celebrate our students' remarkable accomplishments. 
• Class of 2026 Last Senior Day: Friday, May 29th, marks the final day on campus for our graduating seniors. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with the Class of 2026 as they complete their high school journey and prepare for the commencement season ahead. 
• Celebrating the Class of 2026: Our commencement ceremony will be held on June 4th at 11:00 AM at the Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Each student will be issued assigned seated tickets for the event. Please visit our graduation website for more information and updates as we prepare to honor our graduates. 
• Closing Out the Year: June 17th and 18th  will follow a special finals schedule, with exams held each morning. Wednesday afternoon is reserved for teacher support, and Thursday, June 18th, will be our last day on campus. While students may depart after their exams, the afternoon on Thursday remains available for any last-minute work or finishing finals. 

Community Requests and Reminders

• Class of 2026 Graduation Website: Access all essential information, dates, and updates for the upcoming commencement season by visiting the Deering Class of 2026 website. 

• Support Students Through an Family Teacher Organization (FTO) Donation: If you are able, please consider donating to the DHS FTO to support student and classroom initiatives: Donate at the DHS FTO Link Here

• Turn in Library Books: All library books must be returned by May 21 for seniors to receive graduation regalia, and by June 5 for underclassmen. Students can check their status via Destiny Discover or contact Ms. Genre regarding any missing items.

Thank you for your continued partnership in making Deering a joyful place to learn!

Carlie Frederick, Assistant Principal