Assistant Principal Jennifer Vitiello and Principal Annie Young show off one of the many beautiful outdoor place spaces at the Brunswick School Department’s preK to grade 2 school, Kate Furbish Elementary.
🎉📚💙 Two leaders, one amazing team @ HBS! 🐾💙 Mrs. Blanchard + Mrs. Kenny 🌟✨
Mercedes Grandin
RTI Literacy Teacher
HBS
Mercedes is from Dover, MA and attended The Rivers School. She attended Bates, and Harvard and post graduate school at USM. Mercedes's family includes her husband Erik, daughter, Faye (5) and Bunsen, a 2 year old Cobberdog.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I am a very proud Brunswick resident, mother of a Brunswick student, and Brunswick School Department employee! This has been a dream of mine to teach in my own community, and it's an honor to be able to contribute in this way to help our schools and our students shine! We are so lucky to have such excellent public schools with amazing staff who care deeply about our students and their learning, plus a vibrant and welcoming downtown community, the best library in the state (Curtis Memorial) and so much more! Thanks BSD for this opportunity to give back!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
Birding, dog walks, nature hikes, skiing, ice skating, beach combing with my daughter, rock hounding, reading a good book in the sun, exploring the coast of Maine.
Favorite line from a movie?
"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud." -Maya Angelou
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
What is something you learned in the last week?
How hummingbirds sleep in a unique state called torpor.
RTI Literacy Teacher
HBS
Mercedes is from Dover, MA and attended The Rivers School. She attended Bates, and Harvard and post graduate school at USM. Mercedes's family includes her husband Erik, daughter, Faye (5) and Bunsen, a 2 year old Cobberdog.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I am a very proud Brunswick resident, mother of a Brunswick student, and Brunswick School Department employee! This has been a dream of mine to teach in my own community, and it's an honor to be able to contribute in this way to help our schools and our students shine! We are so lucky to have such excellent public schools with amazing staff who care deeply about our students and their learning, plus a vibrant and welcoming downtown community, the best library in the state (Curtis Memorial) and so much more! Thanks BSD for this opportunity to give back!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
Birding, dog walks, nature hikes, skiing, ice skating, beach combing with my daughter, rock hounding, reading a good book in the sun, exploring the coast of Maine.
Favorite line from a movie?
"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style. Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud." -Maya Angelou
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
What is something you learned in the last week?
How hummingbirds sleep in a unique state called torpor.
✨ Meet your Brunswick High School Admin Team! ✨
Pictured is our Principal Mr. Henninger, Athletic Director Ms. Phillips, Dean of Students Ms. Urgese, and Assistant Principal Mr. Goldstone. They are ready to kick off another amazing school year. Welcome back, Dragons! 🐾📚 #BackToSchool #BHSpride #Teamwork #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
Pictured is our Principal Mr. Henninger, Athletic Director Ms. Phillips, Dean of Students Ms. Urgese, and Assistant Principal Mr. Goldstone. They are ready to kick off another amazing school year. Welcome back, Dragons! 🐾📚 #BackToSchool #BHSpride #Teamwork #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
🤝 At Brunswick Junior HS, the first few weeks of school are all about building connections and setting the tone for a great year ahead! 💡
Our 8th-grade Community Outreach students are exploring the power of collaboration, teamwork, and supporting one another through a picture sorting activity. 🌟
Here’s to teamwork, growth, and a strong community—together we achieve more! 💪📚
#teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #BrunswickJuniorHS #StrongerTogether #BackToSchool
Our 8th-grade Community Outreach students are exploring the power of collaboration, teamwork, and supporting one another through a picture sorting activity. 🌟
Here’s to teamwork, growth, and a strong community—together we achieve more! 💪📚
#teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #BrunswickJuniorHS #StrongerTogether #BackToSchool
Kate Furbish Elementary students were welcomed back on Wednesday, September 3rd by Principal Annie Young and none other than Kate Furbish herself!
Annie Gregory
FLS Educational Technician III
KFS
Annie grew up in West Warwick, RI and went to West Warwick High School. Annie got her degree in Therapeutic Recreation from USM. Annie's family includes her husband Shawn, son David (8), four awesome step children - Molly, Abigail, Bryce and Spencer, one high anxiety plott hound named Frank, and one snacky English Cream Retriever named Bailey.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
Cultivating and empowering Brunswick's most precious natural resource - kids!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I love spending quality time with family at home. You can often find me swimming at the y, walking my pups, feeding the birds, dining out in Brunswick, visiting the library and getting lost in a tricky jigsaw puzzle.
Favorite line from a movie?
“I suffer from short term remembory loss.” -Baby Dory, Finding Dory
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Oprah Winfrey - what an insightful soul!
What is something you learned in the last week?
I recently learned that when you want to laminate many items in one sheet you can put a dab of stick glue to the back of the image and stick it to the inside sheet - that way it doesn’t shift when you feed it into the machine! #themoreyouknow
FLS Educational Technician III
KFS
Annie grew up in West Warwick, RI and went to West Warwick High School. Annie got her degree in Therapeutic Recreation from USM. Annie's family includes her husband Shawn, son David (8), four awesome step children - Molly, Abigail, Bryce and Spencer, one high anxiety plott hound named Frank, and one snacky English Cream Retriever named Bailey.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
Cultivating and empowering Brunswick's most precious natural resource - kids!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I love spending quality time with family at home. You can often find me swimming at the y, walking my pups, feeding the birds, dining out in Brunswick, visiting the library and getting lost in a tricky jigsaw puzzle.
Favorite line from a movie?
“I suffer from short term remembory loss.” -Baby Dory, Finding Dory
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Oprah Winfrey - what an insightful soul!
What is something you learned in the last week?
I recently learned that when you want to laminate many items in one sheet you can put a dab of stick glue to the back of the image and stick it to the inside sheet - that way it doesn’t shift when you feed it into the machine! #themoreyouknow
💕 A Little Note, A Big Heart 💕
While visiting one of the schools this morning, I found a note on the floor - a heartfelt message from a parent to their child that instantly brought back memories of the little notes I used to tuck into my own children's lunchboxes.
There's something profoundly simple yet beautiful about these small acts of love. In a world that moves so fast, taking the time to write a few encouraging words for your child to discover during their school day is pure magic. ✨
These moments remind us that sometimes the smallest gestures create the biggest impact. 💖
#ParentLove #SchoolNotes #LunchBoxLove #KateFurbishSchool #SmallActsBigLove #ParentingWin #CommunityLove #HeartWarming #teambrunswickeme #maineschoolsuperintendent
While visiting one of the schools this morning, I found a note on the floor - a heartfelt message from a parent to their child that instantly brought back memories of the little notes I used to tuck into my own children's lunchboxes.
There's something profoundly simple yet beautiful about these small acts of love. In a world that moves so fast, taking the time to write a few encouraging words for your child to discover during their school day is pure magic. ✨
These moments remind us that sometimes the smallest gestures create the biggest impact. 💖
#ParentLove #SchoolNotes #LunchBoxLove #KateFurbishSchool #SmallActsBigLove #ParentingWin #CommunityLove #HeartWarming #teambrunswickeme #maineschoolsuperintendent
Every September is a new school year for our teachers and students but for some, its extra special! Mr. Hutchinson’s last first day of school got fancy with his very own epic t-shirt! After years of dedication, he’s heading into retirement with the same energy as this dragon by his side. 🐲🍎 #Retirement #LastFirstDay #ThankYouMrHutchinson #happyforyou #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
🎉 Welcome back, Brunswick students! Our 7th-grade Team Jewell kicked off the year with a day full of fun and connection—highlighted by the exciting “Come to the Mountain” activity in the brand-new Coffin Courtyard! 🌄✨ #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme #BacktoSchool #FirstDay #brunswickmaine
🚦 New Traffic Pattern Alert! 🚦
Attention families, students, and staff: Our high school driveway now has FOUR (yes, 4!) new speed bumps. 🎉
Please drive carefully when entering and leaving campus so we can keep everyone safe. Let’s make the 2025–2026 school year our safest one yet! 🚗💨 #safety #speedbumps #teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent
Evelyn Atwood
Primary Classroom Teacher
KFS
Evelyn grew up in Brunswick and went to Brunswick High School and attended Susquehanna University.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I'm excited to give back to my hometown community!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I like to spend time with my dog, Mellie, or working on new crochet projects.
Favorite line from a movie?
"What about second breakfast?" Pippin, Fellowship of the Ring
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Marley Dias
What is something you learned in the last week?
A new pasta recipe!
Primary Classroom Teacher
KFS
Evelyn grew up in Brunswick and went to Brunswick High School and attended Susquehanna University.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I'm excited to give back to my hometown community!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I like to spend time with my dog, Mellie, or working on new crochet projects.
Favorite line from a movie?
"What about second breakfast?" Pippin, Fellowship of the Ring
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Marley Dias
What is something you learned in the last week?
A new pasta recipe!
🚍💪 Huge shoutout to our incredible Transportation Department!
They rolled up their sleeves and tackled a full slate of training and team-building activities to keep our students safe and our buses running smoothly. ✅
Highlights included:
✨ Hands-on bus evacuation drills (with a fog machine for a realistic experience!)
✨ Training on special education equipment
✨ A fun “Zombie Apocalypse” team challenge to strengthen teamwork and problem-solving
✨ Washing the entire bus fleet until it sparkled
✨ Fine-tuning routes for the upcoming school year
We are so grateful for this hardworking crew who keep our district moving safely every single day. Thank you, Transportation Team! 👏👏
#teambrunswickme #TransportationStrong #SafeRideToSchool #maineschoolsuperintendent #brunswickmaine
They rolled up their sleeves and tackled a full slate of training and team-building activities to keep our students safe and our buses running smoothly. ✅
Highlights included:
✨ Hands-on bus evacuation drills (with a fog machine for a realistic experience!)
✨ Training on special education equipment
✨ A fun “Zombie Apocalypse” team challenge to strengthen teamwork and problem-solving
✨ Washing the entire bus fleet until it sparkled
✨ Fine-tuning routes for the upcoming school year
We are so grateful for this hardworking crew who keep our district moving safely every single day. Thank you, Transportation Team! 👏👏
#teambrunswickme #TransportationStrong #SafeRideToSchool #maineschoolsuperintendent #brunswickmaine
✨👩🏫🚌 Welcome to Brunswick! 🚌👨🏫✨
We recently welcomed our newest teachers for district orientation. As part of our induction process they hopped on one of our clean propane buses for a tour of town, and got a warm BSD welcome from their new mentor colleagues! 💙💛
A huge thank you to #WildOats for donating a delicious lunch to help fuel the day—we’re grateful for your support of our educators. 🙌
#BSDproud #WelcomeNewTeachers #teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #maineschools #newteacher
We recently welcomed our newest teachers for district orientation. As part of our induction process they hopped on one of our clean propane buses for a tour of town, and got a warm BSD welcome from their new mentor colleagues! 💙💛
A huge thank you to #WildOats for donating a delicious lunch to help fuel the day—we’re grateful for your support of our educators. 🙌
#BSDproud #WelcomeNewTeachers #teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #maineschools #newteacher
Christina Childs
PreK Plus Educational Technician
KFS
Christina has two children, Caleb (11) and Audrey (8). They have two cats, Snowflake and Millie as well as a dog, Juniper. Christina grew up all over including New York, Florida and settled here in Maine. She went to school at SMCC after attending Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I love the culture and the community at BSD!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I enjoy going to concerts and taking trips with my husband and children.
Favorite line from a movie?
"ROUS's? I don't believe they exist" (too many to count but this is a good one)
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Tim Curry
What is something you learned in the last week?
Cows have best friends.
PreK Plus Educational Technician
KFS
Christina has two children, Caleb (11) and Audrey (8). They have two cats, Snowflake and Millie as well as a dog, Juniper. Christina grew up all over including New York, Florida and settled here in Maine. She went to school at SMCC after attending Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I love the culture and the community at BSD!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I enjoy going to concerts and taking trips with my husband and children.
Favorite line from a movie?
"ROUS's? I don't believe they exist" (too many to count but this is a good one)
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Tim Curry
What is something you learned in the last week?
Cows have best friends.
🍎📋 Parents & Students: Need to find your school's lunch menu?
It's easier than you think! Here's how:
✅ Go to your school's individual webpage
✅ Click on "Explore" from the main page
✅ Look for the "School Information" column
✅ Click on "Lunch Menus"
That's it! You'll have access to all the delicious meals planned for your student.
#teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #brunswickmaine #LunchMenus #ParentInfo #SchoolNews
It's easier than you think! Here's how:
✅ Go to your school's individual webpage
✅ Click on "Explore" from the main page
✅ Look for the "School Information" column
✅ Click on "Lunch Menus"
That's it! You'll have access to all the delicious meals planned for your student.
#teambrunswickme #maineschoolsuperintendent #brunswickmaine #LunchMenus #ParentInfo #SchoolNews
Welcoming Our Youngest Learners: Tips for a Smooth Start to PreK in Brunswick
The first day of school is a milestone for any child, but for our youngest students in the Brunswick School Department, it’s an especially big step. Whether it’s the first time riding a school bus, playing on a school playground, or spending a full day away from home, these new experiences can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming.
Helping Your Child Adjust to a Full-Day Program
PreK can be a big transition, especially for children who are used to shorter days. In the first few weeks, keep after-school routines simple and predictable. Offer extra time for rest, healthy snacks, and quiet activities so they can recharge. Talking about what to expect each day can also help them feel more secure.
Preparing for That First Bus Ride
If your child will be riding the bus, take a few minutes to explain what will happen—where they’ll wait, who will help them on and off, and where they’ll sit. Practice a “bus goodbye” at home so they know they’ll be safe and see you again after school.
Exploring the Playground for the First Time
Playgrounds are wonderful for building social skills and confidence. If possible, visit a school playground before the first day so your child can explore the space in a low-pressure setting. Encourage them to try one or two pieces of equipment so it feels familiar later.
Meeting Their Teacher
If you have an opportunity to meet your child’s teacher before school begins, take it. A short visit to the classroom can make the first day feel less intimidating. Looking at photos of the classroom or talking about their teacher by name can also build comfort.
Saying Goodbye at Drop-Off
Separations can be emotional for both parents and children. Keep goodbyes short, calm, and confident—lingering can make it harder for your child to settle in. You might create a quick goodbye ritual, like a hug and high-five, to help them transition.
Great Books to Read Together
Sharing stories about starting school can help children see that their feelings are normal and manageable. Here are a few favorites:
What to Do When You’re Not Sure What to Do by Davina Bell
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Scarecited on the First Day of School by Jessica Delaney
Stanley’s School by William Bee
With patience, reassurance, and a little preparation, the first day of PreK can be a joyful beginning to your child’s school journey. In Brunswick, we’re ready to welcome them with open arms and a bright smile.
The first day of school is a milestone for any child, but for our youngest students in the Brunswick School Department, it’s an especially big step. Whether it’s the first time riding a school bus, playing on a school playground, or spending a full day away from home, these new experiences can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming.
Helping Your Child Adjust to a Full-Day Program
PreK can be a big transition, especially for children who are used to shorter days. In the first few weeks, keep after-school routines simple and predictable. Offer extra time for rest, healthy snacks, and quiet activities so they can recharge. Talking about what to expect each day can also help them feel more secure.
Preparing for That First Bus Ride
If your child will be riding the bus, take a few minutes to explain what will happen—where they’ll wait, who will help them on and off, and where they’ll sit. Practice a “bus goodbye” at home so they know they’ll be safe and see you again after school.
Exploring the Playground for the First Time
Playgrounds are wonderful for building social skills and confidence. If possible, visit a school playground before the first day so your child can explore the space in a low-pressure setting. Encourage them to try one or two pieces of equipment so it feels familiar later.
Meeting Their Teacher
If you have an opportunity to meet your child’s teacher before school begins, take it. A short visit to the classroom can make the first day feel less intimidating. Looking at photos of the classroom or talking about their teacher by name can also build comfort.
Saying Goodbye at Drop-Off
Separations can be emotional for both parents and children. Keep goodbyes short, calm, and confident—lingering can make it harder for your child to settle in. You might create a quick goodbye ritual, like a hug and high-five, to help them transition.
Great Books to Read Together
Sharing stories about starting school can help children see that their feelings are normal and manageable. Here are a few favorites:
What to Do When You’re Not Sure What to Do by Davina Bell
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Scarecited on the First Day of School by Jessica Delaney
Stanley’s School by William Bee
With patience, reassurance, and a little preparation, the first day of PreK can be a joyful beginning to your child’s school journey. In Brunswick, we’re ready to welcome them with open arms and a bright smile.
A huge thank you to @bowdoincollege Fellow Grace and Allie @alligator_isnota_palindrome for bringing their talent and creativity to the @brunswick-area-teen-center! 🎨🌊 They’ve been painting a beautiful seascape on the Teen Center entryway, and it’s already looking amazing. Can’t wait to share the finished masterpiece with you all soon! #teambrunswickme #creativity #maineschoolsuperintendent #mainepublicschools #collaboration #seascape #teencenter
Rick Wilson, our BHS Community Outreach and Extended Learning Coordinator, shared his valuable work as the state's ELO Specialist at the MDOE Annual Summit at Thomas College today. It was a great opportunity to connect with educators from across Maine and discuss the future of extended learning.
#TeamBrunswickME #mainesuperintendent #MDOEAnnual Summit #ExtendedLearning
#TeamBrunswickME #mainesuperintendent #MDOEAnnual Summit #ExtendedLearning
The Gilder Lehrman Institute Selects SARAH CAMPBELL as the State of Maine's 2025 History Teacher of the Year!
The award-winning educator receives a $1,000 prize, a curated collection of classroom resources, and a chance at the national title. Since 2004, this distinguished award has recognized exceptional K–12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” says James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
The annual recognition program, presented by the Gilder Lehrman Institute—the nation’s leading nonprofit for K–12 American history education—celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories. It recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Presenting Sarah's award, is former student, Jacqueline Taylor who spoke about Ms. Campbell's impact on her and all of BHS.
The award-winning educator receives a $1,000 prize, a curated collection of classroom resources, and a chance at the national title. Since 2004, this distinguished award has recognized exceptional K–12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” says James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
The annual recognition program, presented by the Gilder Lehrman Institute—the nation’s leading nonprofit for K–12 American history education—celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories. It recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Presenting Sarah's award, is former student, Jacqueline Taylor who spoke about Ms. Campbell's impact on her and all of BHS.
