RSU 68 awarded grant to tackle opioid crisis head-on

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Public School Districts’ Opioid Recovery Trust on Sept. 19 awarded RSU 68 a grant to fund programs addressing the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on students and their families. RSU is one of 39 school districts to receive a total of 51 grant awards.

The opioid epidemic has left public schools on the front lines, forcing districts to respond to three overlapping challenges: children born with Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome who need costly special education services; students coping with addicted or deceased family members; and students themselves struggling with addiction. The new funding will help districts provide the special education, mental health, and recovery supports needed to keep students in school and on track.

Created following national opioid litigation resolutions between school districts represented by Mehri & Skalet and co-counsel with McKinsey & Company, Endo International PLC, and Mallinckrodt PLC, PSDORT directs resources where they are most urgently needed. By investing in schools, the Trust ensures these grant awards not only respond to the crisis but also protect students’ futures.

“The opioid crisis devastated school systems in many communities. More children were born with Neonatal Withdrawal Syndrome, many were in families who succumbed to addiction, resulting in interruptions to their education and to districts diverting resources to them. Many became addicted themselves. The volume, quality, and creativity of the school district applications we received to help alleviate this crisis reflect a powerful commitment to these students,” said Special Trustee Dr. Andres Alonso. “The 51 projects we have selected represent a diverse portfolio of promising initiatives. We are confident these investments will generate valuable insights and tangible benefits for students and for other similarly affected school systems throughout the nation, who are in incredible need for solutions and resources.”

With the PSDORT grant, RSU 68 will establish a targeted support program that combines early intervention with family outreach. The funding will allow the district to hire a site coordinator for the Pre-K program, ensuring children most impacted by the opioid crisis receive consistent support and a strong start to their education. In addition, a dedicated social worker will work directly with families to connect them with critical community services, recovery resources, and ongoing supports. Together, these positions will strengthen the district’s ability to address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs while fostering stability and resilience for families. 

Stacy Shorey, superintendent of RSU 68, notes, “This grant gives us the resources to support both students and families — providing early intervention, guidance, and connection to services that will make a lasting difference in their lives. Our goal is to help every child feel safe, supported and ready to learn.”