Oyster River Cooperative School District Names Middle School Recital Hall in Honor of Retiring Superintendent Dr. James C. Morse, Sr.

DURHAM – The Oyster River Cooperative School Board proudly announces that the Oyster River Middle School concert hall has been named the Morse Recital Hall for Dr. James C. Morse, Sr., in recognition of his 12 years of dedicated service to the District.

Dr. Morse is retiring at the end of the current school year following 48 years in education. He started his career as a K-12 art teacher in Unity, Maine, subsequently working as a Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent in multiple Maine school districts. Dr. Morse was selected as Oyster River’s Superintendent in 2012.

School Board member Brian Cisneros announced the dedication of Morse Recital Hall at a ceremony there on May 16.

“Superintendent Morse has been the guiding force behind our educational endeavors, fostering an environment of growth and inclusivity,” Cisneros said. “He will forever be remembered for his steadfast support of the arts and excellence in education and leadership.”

Dr. Morse is credited with leading numerous educational initiatives during his time in Oyster River, supporting students, faculty, and staff so they find personal or professional growth. Dr. Morse also was an integral part of the District’s eight-year effort to build a new Middle School, which was approved by voters and opened in February 2022. The school may be the largest energy net-positive school in the region, and perhaps the country.

The 900-seat, state-of-the-art recital hall is a centerpiece of the school, and hosts numerous performing arts events each year.

“It has been an honor to serve alongside such dedicated educators and staff,” Dr. Morse said. “This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to every individual who has contributed to our students’ success.”