After accepting AE/MS’ volunteer recognition on behalf of the Friends of the Northern Rail Trail, Charles Martin (right), expressed the group’s appreciation for the school’s long-standing support of the Rail Trail by presenting Principal Jane Slayton with a copy of his book, New Hampshire Rail Trails.

As part of the Andover Elementary/Middle School graduation ceremonies on June 9, Principal Jane Slayton presented the AE/MS 2016 Volunteer Recognition award. It went to the Board of the Friends of the Northern Rail Trail for their work to construct and maintain the Northern Rail Trail. 

AE/MS students, staff members, and families make great use of the Rail Trail. Jane remarked, “AE/MS loves the Rail Trail. It is truly an extension of our classrooms. We consider ourselves very fortunate to border the Rail Trail. Events such as Bike to School Day, Walk to School Day, science explorations, nature scavenger hunts, 5K races, bug hunts, and more are easy to manage, safe, and enhanced because of our Rail Trail.”

Charles Martin accepted the award on behalf of the Friends group. He also voiced thanks to Jane and the school for their support of the Board’s efforts. In particular, letters of support from the school have been instrumental in obtaining the Federal and State grants used to complete construction of the entire 34 miles in Merrimack County.

To help express the group’s appreciation, he presented Ms. Slayton with a copy of his book, New Hampshire Rail Trails, for the school library. Dr. Martin has biked all the rail trails in New Hampshire and documented them in his book.

The Friends of the Northern Rail Trail in Merrimack County will be added to the Volunteer Plaque in the AE/MS lobby.