The Landing School: End of an era

The Landing School opened its doors in 1978 in Arundel, Maine as a nonprofit, post-secondary institution dedicated to the craft of boatbuilding and design. However, after nearly five decades, academic programs for 2026-27 will cease due to declining enrollment and financial challenges.

The Landing School had explored the possibility of an acquisition that could continue The Landing School’s operations and mission, but the Board of Trustees determined this option was not viable. This update comes from President John Caron, Ed.D.:

We understand that this has been a difficult and confusing sequence of events for our students, faculty, staff, and community. In exploring an acquisition, the Board of Trustees felt a responsibility to pursue every reasonable effort to find a path forward. Our priority now is supporting our enrolled students, faculty, and staff through next steps.

The Landing School will provide a full refund of deposits and consider reimbursement for certain expenses on a case-by-case basis. Incoming students will be contacted by admissions for further guidance.

The Landing School will also work with incoming students to identify other education opportunities where appropriate and provide documentation that may assist with the transfer of their education plans. The student orientation that was scheduled for September 8 will not take place.

We are so proud of the work The Landing School has accomplished in the almost fifty years since first accepting and teaching students in the art of boatbuilding and we hope those accomplishments can continue to be celebrated.

We are grateful to all who have stood by The Landing School throughout this difficult period. We know how much this school has meant to so many people, and we remain committed to managing this process with care and responsibility.