East End Community School (EECS) will celebrate its 20th birthday on Friday, June 12, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. EECS invites students, families, staff members and alumni to this milestone event, themed “Twenty Years of Learning & Community,” to honor the school’s two decades of educational excellence and community spirit on Munjoy Hill.

EECS opened in August 2006 on the site of the former Jack Elementary School, which closed in 2001 and was torn down due to severe mold problems. EECS was built to modern, energy-efficient standards and features large windows, natural lighting, and rooftop solar panels. In 2021, the International Center for Leadership in Education named EECS as a model school for its improvements in student learning. EECS, one of Portland’s most diverse public schools, continuously works to realize its vision of “empowering students of the world for the world.” 

The June celebration will feature an exciting series of exposition games showcasing students from EECS’ after-school partnership with the Hearts of Pine’s “Portland Soccer Project,” a free after-school program that helps kids develop skills in conflict resolution, self-regulation, leadership, and teamwork, all through the game of soccer. Adding to the festive atmosphere will be a visit from Hearts of Pine players who will be on site to meet with students. The Valentine Band also will perform throughout the afternoon, playing all of the songs and chants that echo through “Fort Fitzy,” which is an affectionate name for Fitzpatrick Stadium, home turf to the Hearts of Pine soccer team.

The EECS Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is planning a fun-filled experience for all attendees. Guests can enjoy a variety of treats, including ice cream and “20th Birthday” cupcakes. There will also be face painting, balloon animals, and other engaging activities.

"We're aiming to create a ‘Mini-Fitzy’ up here on Munjoy Hill to help our kids end the year on a high note, and to celebrate all of the teachers and staff members who have helped to make this building a fun, inviting community since 2006," said Bill Sumner, longtime EECS lead secretary.

The Portland Public Schools is Maine’s largest school district, with more than 6,200 students, and it’s also the most diverse. About one-third of the district’s students come from homes where languages other than English are spoken—a total of 61 languages. Approximately 49 percent of the district’s students are white and 51 percent are students of color. More than half of all PPS students are economically disadvantaged.