The Chlldren’s Museum & Theatre of Maine (CMTM) has been awarded a $224,143 grant to fund the expansion of programs that help Maine public schools integrate African American and Ethnic Studies as well as Wabanaki Studies into their curricula.  The grant came from the Museum for America (MFA) by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)  The announncement came late last week.  This is the first time in 23 years that CMTM has received this prestigious grant and it is the only institution in Maine to be awarded an MFA grant for Fiscal Year 2024.

CMTM, located at 250 Thompson’s Point Road,  will use the grant to develop and expand programs that align with Maine’s mandated African American and Ethnic Studies and Wabanaki Studies curricula.  Collaborating wih local organizations, artists, musicians performances, and storytellers, the Museum and Theatre will create onsite outreach programs that center community voices.  Additionally, professional development oppportuities will be provided for Maine educators to enhance their capacity to implement these new criteria.  The grant will also support the production of a new play adapted from a children’s book authorized by a member of one of the represented communities.

“The grant brings augumented and interactive resources to connect with the culturally diverse history and background of the land we currently call Maine,” said Julie Butcher Pezzino, Executive Director of MTM.  “By deepening Maine students Black, Brown and Wabanaki cultural learning experiences through programing and professional development, we aim to advance knowledge from early childood to 4th grade.  The layered approach of onsite and outreach programs, as well as professional develoment, ensures meaningful perspective-shifting experiences for students.”

CMTM will partner with Indigo Arts Alliance, I’m Your Neighbor, Maine Roads to Quality Professional Development Network and several other community partners to develop programs and opportunities for learning and performance that support Maine students and educators.

The CMTM will spend the next three years developing and implementing the project which is tied to its 2024-2027 strategic p;an to enhance diversity, equity and inclusive connections.

Last November, CMTM was the recipient from the city of Portland of the Economic Development Achievment award at Ocean Gateway, Portland.  Accepting the award was Executive Director Julie Butcher Pezzino.  For more background on this award, please visit post herein dated November 15, 2023.