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China Middle School

About Us China Middle School has 250-300 students in grades five through eight. It is located in central Maine ten miles east of the state capital, Augusta. Our community is centered around the many recreational and environmental aspects of the lake. The west basin of China Lake is the drinking water source for many surrounding communities. China Middle School fifth grade teachers are partnering with the Kennebec Water District to educate students and parents about water quality issues. Water quality is a major concern in our community because of the "China Lake Syndrome."

Our Lake The lake received lots of publicity and attention because of the rapid decline of lake water quality in the 1970's caused by algal blooms. Environmental issues surrounding water permeate the fifth grade curriculum. Students learn about wetlands, watersheds, the water cycle, and oceans. Since 1998, the fifth grade students have participated in China Lake Day as a year long culminating activity. This day is set aside to tour the water treatment plant and do water quality testing from boats on China Lake. Other partners for China Lake Day include the China Lake Association, the China Region Lake Alliance, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, many community volunteers, and starting this year MLCI.