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.
🏆 Champions of the Central Office! 🏆
The Bag Toss–Trail Blazers Team, made up of Tricia Faulkingham, Director of Educational Technology, and Superintendent Phil Potenziano, took home the title in today's inaugural Central Office Cornhole Tournament! 🎯🌽
It was a hard-fought final match, but this dynamic duo stayed cool under pressure and tossed their way to victory! 💪🔥
#TeamBrunswickME #CornholeChamps #TrailBlazers #BSDFun #Maineschoolspirit #MaineSchoolSuperintendent #MaineSchools #Teamwork
The Bag Toss–Trail Blazers Team, made up of Tricia Faulkingham, Director of Educational Technology, and Superintendent Phil Potenziano, took home the title in today's inaugural Central Office Cornhole Tournament! 🎯🌽
It was a hard-fought final match, but this dynamic duo stayed cool under pressure and tossed their way to victory! 💪🔥
#TeamBrunswickME #CornholeChamps #TrailBlazers #BSDFun #Maineschoolspirit #MaineSchoolSuperintendent #MaineSchools #Teamwork
Happy summer & happy last day of school for Brunswick High School! ☀️🎉 No need to come in Wednesday, May 18th unless you’re making up finals! 📚✌️ #SchoolsOut #SummerVibes #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
Huge thanks to our amazing 2024–2025 Student Library Assistants! 📚💫 Your dedication, kindness, and community spirit have made a lasting impact on the BHS Library. We appreciate you! #BHSReads #LibraryLeaders #StudentSpotlight #teambrunswickme #mainesuperintendent
🐾✨ Stress-free vibes only at Brunswick High! Students cuddling with therapy dogs, enjoying fun games in the cafeteria, and taking time to recharge. Finals season just got a little softer. 💆♀️🎯🐶 #StressRelief #TherapyDogs #CampusWellness #FinalsWeekVibes #SelfCareMatters #brunswickhighschool #teambrunswickme #mainesuperintendent
🎓 Brunswick High School Finals got you stressed? We’ve got you covered! 💆♀️🐶
Come chill with us for some much-needed Stress Management fun!
📍 Cafeteria
✨ Snacks
✨ Playdough
✨ Coloring
✨ Games
✨ Elmer
✨ Puzzles
📍 Library
🕤 9:30 - 10:00 AM
🐾 Therapy Dogs
🍿 Popcorn
Take a break—you’ve earned it! 💛 #FinalsWeek #DeStress #TherapyDogs #StudentLife #MentalHealthMatters #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
When you’ve got 99 problems but they’re all on the final 😅📚
Caffeine: ✅ Sleep: ❌ Memory: loading… 🧠💻
Let’s survive finals so we can thrive this summer 🌞🍉
You've got this Brunswick High School! Finals start TOMORROW!
#FinalsMode #SendHelp #BrainOnStrike #AlmostFree #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
🎓 OCLC Senior Recognition 🎓
On June 3rd, the Off Campus Learning Center (OCLC) proudly celebrated its annual Senior Recognition, honoring this year’s 13 amazing graduates! 🌟
Congratulations to the Class of 2025 — your hard work, resilience, and dedication have paid off! 👏🎉 #OCLCGrads #SeniorRecognition #ClassOf2025 #ProudMoment #brunswickhighschool #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
No more homework, no more books… Class of 2025 has officially left the group chat. #congratulations #brunswickhighschool #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
A couple of snapshots from this morning’s Brunswick High School's Elementary School Walk Through at KFS! 🎓✨ Our students also visited HBS and BJHS—so much excitement as we celebrated our amazing Grade 12 students. The seniors had a blast walking down memory lane through their former schools.
Graduation is TONIGHT at 7PM at Watson Arena, Bowdoin College. Doors open at 6PM. Come celebrate the Class of 2025 with us! 🎉 #ClassOf2025 #SeniorWalk #GraduationDay #OnceADragonAlwaysADragon #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
It’s almost time! Tomorrow is graduation day for our amazing Brunswick High School Class of 2025!
Can’t make it in person? Catch the ceremony LIVE at 6:45 PM right here:
🔗 https://vimeo.com/event/5152980
Ceremony begins at 7:00 PM—don’t miss it! 👏 #BHSGrad2025 #BrunswickProud #GraduationDay #teambrunswickme #mainesuperintendent
Brunswick High School Grade 12 Art students Brianna Dodge and Mackenzie Beal (pictured) proudly showcase their stunning mosaic tile project! Shoutout to fellow artists Ella Duchette, Caitlin Seitz, Fin Leo, Trevor Campbell, and Kat Wells for their creative contributions as well. 🎨✨ #StudentArt #MosaicMagic #CreativeMinds #teambrunswickme #mainesuperintendent #brunswickhighschool
🌍 Grade 12 student at Brunswick High School, Rosa McCausland led a trash clean-up on the Androscoggin Bike Path for her final environmental science project — joined by Nieve Logan, Brendan Ledwick, Autumn Stanford, Maeve Donohue, Cece Smith & Ellie Gilman. In just one mile, they collected two bags of trash! 🗑️💪
Rosa hopes this inspires others to take care of our planet, one small action at a time. 🌿 Every little bit counts — we only have one Earth! 💚♻️ #OneEarth #TakeAction #EnvironmentalScience #TrailCleanUp #LeaveNoTrace #StudentLeaders #AndroscogginBikePath #brunswickhighschool #mainesuperintendent #teambrunswickme
Hawo Abdille, ESOL Coordinator for ML Students & Family Engagement at BSD, had a great time at the MATSOL Conference—the largest gathering of EL & ML educators in Massachusetts!
📣 Hawo co-presented with Helen Cohen from ReachMyTeach on “Inclusive Communication for Multilingual Family Engagement: What’s Working.” This sparked powerful conversations around breaking down communication barriers and building stronger school-home connections.
💬 They shared tools, tips, and strategies to break down communication barriers and strengthen school-home connections with multilingual families.
Let’s keep building inclusive learning communities! 💡🤝 #BSDStrong #mainesuperintendent
#MATSOL2025 #FamilyEngagement #MultilingualLearners #InclusiveEducation #ReachMyTeach
On May 30, 2025, Brunswick High School proudly welcomed the Class of 2029 for Step-Up Day! Incoming freshmen toured the campus, met future teachers, and took part in orientation activities to help them feel at home. Huge thanks to our amazing Dragon Ambassadors for guiding the way and sharing the spirit of BHS! 🐉 #StepUpDay #ClassOf2029 #DragonPride #BHSFamily #FutureDragons #teambrunswickme #mainesuperintendent
