KENNEBUNK — Each year in the spring, The New School’s students and teachers travel across the U.S. or to other countries for an intensive study of fascinating subjects. 

Intensives are one of the cornerstones of The New School. They provide an opportunity for young people to stretch their minds, learn outside their comfort zone, and engage in experiences that help them see they can make a difference in the world.

They also increase confidence, problem solving skills, and embody a holistic model; engaging mind, body and spirit.

Each intensive incorporates a volunteer and academic opportunity.  Students are integral to the research and planning of their trips. 

This year students are traveling to Georgia to support hurricane relief efforts and to Oaxaca, Mexico, to help recovery efforts from the earthquake’s destruction. This group will also be immersed in learning Spanish. 

The third intensive group is staying in Kennebunk to study engineering by building Rube Goldberg inventions, which use a chain reaction to accomplish a very simple task in a very complicated manner. 

To raise money for their intensives, students and teachers have given a series of community building gourmet dinners featuring a harvest theme, a murder mystery and trivia nights, complete with prizes. 

They’ve had an overwhelming response and a lot of fun at each event. 

Their last gourmet dinner will also be a trivia-themed, four-course meal taking place from 6 to 9 p.m.  Saturday, March 10. 

The menu features Fruit Kabobs, Mediterranean Platter, Carrot Ginger Soup and Challah Bread, Caesar Salad, Ham, Lentil Loaf, Macaroni and Cheese, Roasted Beets and Yukon Gold Potatoes, Asparagus Risotto and Cupcakes.

This dinner is open to the public and because of limited space, reservations are required. 

For more information, visit thenewschoolmaine.org or call 985-3745.