On Tuesday, December 9, our Elementary students set out on a meaningful service-learning trip to Footprints Food Pantry in Kittery, bringing with them nine boxes filled to the brim with donations from our school-wide food drive. Upon arrival, the boxes were weighed—an impressive 192 pounds of food collected by the Brixham community! In true Montessori fashion, students were curious about everything, including the giant scale, so each child stepped on it as well, totaling more than 500 pounds together.
The visit began with a tour led by McKenna, who created an engaging, age-appropriate experience designed specifically for our students. She asked questions, invited reflection, and welcomed the children’s thoughtful responses. Our students, in turn, amazed us with the questions they asked—ones that prompted even adults to pause, consider, and appreciate the depth of their learning about food scarcity and community systems.
A major highlight of the visit was learning about Footprints’ inspiring philosophy of food abundance. While some food pantries set limits on how much a person may take, Footprints believes deeply in trust, dignity, and meeting people where they are. Their Open Market model allows individuals to choose freely from the shelves, selecting what they need for themselves and their families.
Students also had the opportunity to explore several innovative services Footprints provides, including:
Refrigerated lockers for clients who don’t have access to safe food storage
Phinn’s Pet Pantry for beloved household pets
Weekly home deliveries for those unable to travel
Cooking and nutrition classes
Culinary job training programs
Community Suppers every Thursday evening
Breakfast Café offered Tuesday and Thursday mornings
Footprints serves approximately 500 people each month, and is open to anyone in need—no residency, income, or documentation requirements.
Elementary teacher Dorothy Matthews reflected on the day, saying the experience was “a really awesome opportunity and a great way for them to put all their learning into practice.” Admissions Director and Service Learning coordinator Heidi Salisbury-Finley added, “This is what Montessori education does so beautifully—students learn not only about their community, but with their community. They see firsthand that their work, empathy, and curiosity can make a meaningful impact.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Footprints Food Pantry for welcoming our students with such warmth and intention, and to our families for the generosity that made this donation possible. Your support helps our students develop compassion, responsibility, and a deep understanding of how even small contributions can strengthen the world around them.