Project to boost school programs

AUGUSTA — The state Education Department is sponsoring an experimental project in two school districts aimed at involving communities at large in public education.

Slated to begin next month, the Reaffirmation Project involves a team of two Harvard University graduate students and state and local task forces, including parents and representatives of religious institutions.

Organizers said Thursday the program seeks to boost participation in local school programs by families and churches.

Commissioner Leo Martin will supervise the task forces, with the program conducted in School Administrative District 22 — Hampden, Newburgh and Winterport — and SAD 71 — Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.

Martin was formerly superintendent of District 71.