AVON — Maine School of Masonry is pleased to announce that the Veterans Administration, through the Maine State Approving Agency, has approved the school’s masonry program for educational purposes under the GI Bill. This allows veterans to fund their course at the school through the GI Bill program.

“This is a huge achievement and a great step forward,” said Steve “Mitch” Mitchell, the founder and owner of the school. “Our countrymen and women returning from service are looking for new careers or ways to jump start a trade education. Having the GI Bill fund the course is a win for the student, a win for the school and a win for the country.”

The MSAA did an in-depth review of MSM’s curriculum, programs, course outline, grading, project work and financial stability. The MSAA then wrapped up the process with an on-site visit to the school. Throughout the process, the MSAA was very complementary of the Maine School of Masonry’s program, now in its seventh year.

“The Maine School of Masonry is an impressive education site,” stated Nancy Newton, Education Program Specialist in her approval letter. She continued, “And your enthusiasm and dedication to the promotion of this trade is both inspiring and contagious. You have demonstrated a well thought out model for your school – including opportunities to provide masonry services to the community.”

Those individuals who may qualify under the GI Bill should contact their local MSAA for advice as not all veterans have the same GI Bill benefits. In most cases, however, the GI Bill pays for the entire course, including, in some cases, housing. The MSAA local to this area is in Randolph and they can be reached at (207) 582-2100.

The Maine School of Masonry is accepting applications for the 2013-14 school year. Contact the school by phone at (207) 639-2392 or by email at masonryschool@tds.net or visit www.masonryschool.org for more information.