Who We Are

Spruce Mountain Adult & Community Education (SMAE) is proud to serve the Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls communities. Since the formation of RSU 73 in 2011, we’ve been dedicated to creating opportunities for adult learners to finish high school credentials, prepare for college, gain workforce training, and explore personal enrichment.

We believe there’s something for everyone—and our programs are designed to meet learners where they are and guide them to where they want to go.

Our Philosophy

At SMAE, learning is more than academics—it’s about growth, empowerment, and community.

  • We provide student-centered instruction that respects the needs and goals of adult learners.
  • We create pathways that connect education to real-world opportunities.
  • We build partnerships with local employers, colleges, and organizations to strengthen our community.

Our guiding motto is simple: Educate. Empower. Enrich.

Our History

Spruce Mountain Adult & Community Education was born in 2011, when the Jay and MSAD 36 school districts came together to form RSU 73. From the very beginning, our mission was clear: provide adults with the opportunity to complete their education, build new skills, and open doors to brighter futures.

In the years that followed, we grew quickly. By 2018, enrollment had increased by more than 170%, and we celebrated our largest graduating class to date. This growth reflected not only the determination of our learners but also the strong community partnerships that supported them along the way.

As the needs of our region shifted, so did our programs. We expanded beyond high school credentials into workforce training in healthcare, trades, and culinary arts—helping students move directly from the classroom into meaningful careers. More recently, we’ve welcomed a growing number of younger learners, ages 16–20, who come to us seeking flexible pathways to complete their diplomas and prepare for college or employment.

Today, SMAE continues to evolve with one purpose in mind: to meet learners where they are and walk beside them on the journey forward.

Meet Our Staff

Behind every class, assessment, and certificate is a dedicated team that makes learning possible. At SMAE, our instructors and staff bring professional expertise, patience, and encouragement to every learner’s journey.

From teachers with years of classroom experience, to workforce trainers connected directly with local industries, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We believe education is about more than lessons—it’s about relationships, guidance, and building confidence.

Our Impact at a Glance

At Spruce Mountain Adult & Community Education, every number tells a story of persistence, growth, and success. From students earning high school credentials to adults completing workforce training and launching new careers, our impact reaches across ages and backgrounds.

  • 173% enrollment growth between 2015–2018
  • Dozens of graduates earning high school diplomas and HiSET each year
  • Workforce certifications in healthcare, trades, and culinary arts that connect learners directly to jobs
  • Learners of all ages — from teens completing high school to adults in their 40s and 50s achieving career goals.

These numbers are just the beginning. Visit our Data & Outcomes page to explore graphs, trends, and success metrics that show how adult education is making a difference in Jay, Livermore, and Livermore Falls.