Watershed School has purchased the building located at One Free Street, just one block from their current location.
Built in 1994, One Free Street is over 7,500 square feet, more than double the size of Watershed’s current space. The additional space will mean more classrooms, a bigger gathering area, and enough room for additional facilities such as science, design and metalsmithing labs, a library, a student lounge, and a kitchen.
The move comes just as Watershed School is celebrating its 15th anniversary. “This is the perfect time for Watershed to invest in a permanent home,” said Will Galloway, Head of School. “Enrollment is growing and interest in Watershed School is higher than ever. More students are searching for an intellectually challenging program that also provides meaningful connections; to their work, their teachers, their community, and each other.
Watershed School opened its doors in Rockland in 2003, with a move to the current location in Camden in 2012. Watershed takes full advantage of its midcoast location, partnering with organizations such as the Camden Conference, the Camden Opera House, Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences, The Jackson Laboratory, The Steel House (an art, design and technology collective), Bay Chamber Concerts, and the town of Camden.
The building was acquired from the Bennett T. Scheuer Learning Center, LLC, which applied a generous donation to the purchase price. "I’m honored to be able to support Watershed’s program, on behalf of my brother,” said Mr. Lee Scheuer. "I have been so impressed with the alumni, board members, administration, faculty and current students. It has been a pleasure working with the school to make their new campus a reality."
The school has launched a New Schoolhouse capital initiative campaign to raise the remaining resources for the purchase of the building, as well as upcoming renovations. Donations are welcome and can be made online at www.watershed-school.org/newschoolhouse.
Those interested in learning more about Watershed School are invited to an Information Night on Monday, November 27, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm, at One Free Street in Camden. Parents and students will have the opportunity to sample classes, tour the new building, and participate in a special campfire Q&A session in the new building’s outdoor space. Soup, cider, and s’mores will be served.
Watershed School is an independent high school located in Camden, serving students who are looking for a challenging academic program in the context of a supportive and enthusiastic school culture. Watershed is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, is a Maine State Approved High School, and a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).
