True House Initiative
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The Opportunity
At Fryeburg Academy, every student is known, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. The renovation and expansion of the True House builds on that promise—enhancing support for Essential Skills students while addressing urgent space needs across campus.
Located between the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center and the Harvey Dow Gibson Gymnasium, the True House occupies a central and highly visible place in campus life. Acquired in the early 2000s from former Head of School Harry True and his wife, Sandra, the building has served several purposes over the years. In the mid-2000s, it became home to the Academy’s Essential Skills Program, where it has since supported some of Fryeburg Academy’s most inspiring and determined learners.
The Importance of the Essential Skills Program
The Essential Skills Program is a vital expression of Fryeburg Academy’s educational mission. The program serves students with diverse learning needs, including:
- Autism, ADHD, and Down syndrome
- Intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Speech and language impairments
- Physical and health impairments
Every student in the program has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and participates meaningfully in the Academy life. Students attend at least one regular education class each day and engage in core academic subjects, including science, social studies, math, and reading.
Instruction also emphasizes functional and life skills—cooking, hygiene, communication, and social development—helping students build independence and confidence. Interdisciplinary collaboration is central to the program’s success, with integrated support from:
- Speech and Language specialists
- Occupational and Physical Therapy providers
- Social Work professionals
Essential Skills students are a real part of Academy life, participating in programs such as Special Olympics Maine and Unified Sports. These experiences foster friendships, a sense of belonging, resilience, and pride. Providing appropriate, well-designed space for these students is essential. Classrooms, therapy spaces, a kitchen, and restrooms must be accessible, flexible, safe, and supportive of dignity and independence.
Key Challenges
Project Details
Naming Opportunities
Make a Positive Impact.
If you believe in our mission and want to have a positive impact, please consider donating today. Your donation will play a crucial role in helping us achieve our goals and create a brighter future for the Academy and our students. We sincerely appreciate your generosity and support!
“As a parent, the True House project means so much more than a building — it represents a commitment to every student being seen, supported, and valued. Programs like Essential Skills give students with diverse learning needs the chance to grow academically, develop independence, and truly feel part of the Fryeburg Academy community. Knowing that the Academy is investing in spaces designed for learning, therapy, and life skills gives families like ours confidence that our children will have the support they need to thrive."