Andrew M. Rodin
Headmaster
arodin@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:
Stanford University, MA, Education Administration and
Policy Analysis, 2000
Columbia University, BA, Political Science, 1992

Background:
Andy grew up in Chevy Chase, MD, just outside of Washington, D.C., and attended local public school all the way through high school. Intending to follow in the footsteps of his father, his aunts and uncles, and his grandfathers, Andy began applications to law school and accepted a job as a paralegal at the law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, and Flom, where he supported attorneys on cases involving antidumping regulations and countervailing measures on hot-rolled steel bars from Sweden, Japan, Thailand, and other foreign countries.

After six of the longest weeks of his life, Andy officially retired from the world of law and took a job as an intern teaching 6^th grade at St. Albans School, located on the grounds of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. It was there that he fell in love with education. The constant interaction with the students, their parents, and the other faculty members provided him with a nearly ideal setting. And law school will have to wait until his next lifetime.

Experience:
Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA, 2006-present
    Headmaster
St. Anne’s-Belfield School, Charlottesville, VA, 2004-2006
    Head of Upper School, grades 9-12
St. Albans School, Washington, D.C., 1993-2004
    Teacher, Coach, Dormitory Parent, Dean of Students,
    Director of Admissions and Financial Aid

Philosophy of Education:
Below is an excerpt from Andy’s more extensive piece on his educational philosophy, which lists 10 statements about his values and who he is as an educator:

1. I am without question a visible presence at school—someone who constantly gravitates to both students and adults and gains energy from interactions with them.

2. I am an approachable, inclusive leader who can maintain a good sense of humor while making difficult decisions.

3. I believe completely in the values of hard work, service, and integrity.

4. I know with great certainty that teachers are the heart and soul of a school, and that their connections with students last forever.

5. I am convinced that the very best schools view their relationship with parents as a partnership with the common goal of preparing children for life well beyond high school and college.

6. I maintain that a child’s experience in school is above all else a social/emotional one, and without a firm emotional connection, their intellectual development will not reach its potential.

7. I think that one of the greatest gifts we can give our students is to place them in a safe school environment and surround them with people from as many different backgrounds and perspectives as possible.

8. As much as I value the purely academic side of schools, I am most passionate about building community, marketing the school, developing short- and long-range plans, and cultivating the support for such plans.

9. I want to be involved in all areas of school, but I am a firm believer in hiring the right people, trusting them to make thoughtful decisions, and supporting them no matter what the outcome might be.

10. As the father of twin 9-year-old boys and an 3-year-old girl, I have become an extremely capable time manager who appreciates the importance of striking a healthy balance between work and family time.

Interests and Activities:
An avid athlete in high school and college, Andy still seeks every opportunity to remain physically active and competitive.  He completed the Bethany Beach (Delaware) Triathlon in 1999; runs the Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA 10K Turkey Trot each year with his sons; and continues to jog, bike, and play pick-up basketball and soccer on a regular basis.  In addition, Andy is a die-hard fan of all teams Red: the Red Sox in baseball and his beloved Redskins in football.  New challenges this year have taken a slightly different turn and include competing in the Cape Cod BBQ championship, where he hopes to wow the judges with his specialties: babyback ribs and a pulled pork that, as one friend from down South likes to say, "will make you bring back things you didn't even steal!"  (Translation: Delicious!)

When he's not enjoying the outdoors, Andy tries to find a quiet place where he can dive into a good book.  Among his favorite authors are John Irving (A Prayer for Owen Meany), Larry McMurtry (Lonesome Dove), and Cormac McCarthy (All the Pretty Horses).  In his spare time, he has penned three feature-length screenplays and is in the process of completing his first novel.

Lauren Corliss

Director of Alumni Affairs

lcorliss@friendsacademy1810.org

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from St. Michael’s College, Colchester, Vermont

Fifth-Year Teaching Certification in English, Lyndon State College, Lyndonville, Vermont

Background

Lauren Corliss grew up in the White Mountains of northern New Hampshire where she skied, snowshoed, hiked, and cycled.  Unwilling to be far from the great outdoors, Corliss attended college in the Burlington area of Vermont.  Following graduation she moved to Washington, D.C., where she lived and worked for several years.  After making her way back to New Hampshire, she returned to school to become certified to teach middle and high school English.  Corliss married her husband, Mark, and, a short time later, their son Caleb was born. 

While living at the boarding school where her husband was teaching, Corliss took her first teaching job in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.  She commuted over the border and taught seventh and eighth grade English and social studies for three years before becoming a health educator and moving on to work for a non-profit community health center.   

Eight years later, a change of scenery topped the Corliss’ agenda and they began looking at day and boarding schools.  Lauren taught for a year at the Hollis-Brookline Middle School while her husband and son were full-fledged members of a boarding school environment.  However, the fit wasn’t satisfactory, so a year later they were on the move again.  This move landed the Corliss family on the South Coast.  Lauren is pleased to be a member of  Friends Academy; her husband teaches at Tabor Academy and her son is a student there.  They live in Marion on the Tabor campus where they are dorm parents to nine young women.

Cheryl Deane

Director of Admissions

cdeane@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         M.A., Educational Administration, Michigan State University

·         B.A., Foreign Languages, Assumption College

Background:

·         Director of Admissions, Friends Academy since 2004

·         Director of Admissions, Seoul International School, S. Korea, 1998-2003

·         English as a Second Language and Foreign Language teacher, 22 years overseas

·         U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, Morocco, 1981-1984

On a Personal Note:

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been passionate about two things: education and travel. As youngsters, my friends and I all had grandparents who spoke mysterious languages other than English at home – especially when we were listening - and I was determined to crack their code. It became my mission to pack my educational trunk with languages so that I could travel and meet the world head on, and all the wonderful people we share it with. Over the years, I’ve been inspired by outstanding educators, though not all of them formally schooled as we know it. Each person I meet has something fascinating to teach me, whether I can speak their language or not. Among them, I’ve had lessons with Berber shepherds in Morocco, Rastafarian tour guides in Trinidad, mask makers in Indonesia, changgu drummers in South Korea, and master chefs in the south of France. With friends, colleagues, and family around the globe, I don’t know where I’ll end up next, but I do know that wherever I go, I'm sure to meet my next great teacher!

Marcia A. Douglas

Secretary to Headmaster

mdouglas@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

University of Hartford, BS in Education, 1975

Professional Background:

Office Manager/Executive Assistant, Acusphere, Inc., Watertown, MA  1996-2003

Office Manager/Assistant to General Partner, Aegis Venture Funds, Boston, MA  1988-1995

Office Manager, Pugh-Roberts Associates, Cambridge, MA  1987-1988

Office Manager, Piezo Electric Products, Cambridge, MA  1984-1987

Marketing Admin Assistant, Hayden-Wegman Consulting Engineers, Boston, MA  1981-1984

Assistant to Clerk of Courts, Juvenile Court, New Bedford, MA  1977-1980

Substitute Teacher, 1975-1977

On a Personal Note:

Marcia and her husband, Lance, reside in Lakeville, MA, with their son, Max, an eight grader at Friends Academy.  The Douglas family enjoys boating, travel, sports, and playing with their yellow lab, Cooper. 

Melinda Foley-Marsello

Head of Lower Division

mfoley-marsello@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

M.Ed. in reading – Rhode Island College

B.A. in psychology and secondary education – Kirkland College

Background:

The 2007-2008 school year is my third year at Friends Academy.  Before coming to Friends Academy, I was very fortunate to wear many hats during my 18 years at Moses Brown School in Providence.  At Moses Brown, I taught 5^th grade, Kindergarten, and finally 1^st grade, which is when I decided to pursue my masters degree in reading.  My last five years at Moses Brown, I served as the language arts coordinator, developing curriculum and working with students and teachers in preschool through grade five.  I also served as the diversity coordinator for the lower school. 

I feel my many roles at Moses Brown helped prepare me for the wonderful challenge of being a division head.  Working with teachers, parents, and students gives me an incredible opportunity to view the educational environment of Friends from a broad perspective.

Philosophy:

It is an incredible gift to be able to be a part of a child’s earliest educational experience.  The early years are when a love of learning and excelling are established.   I also believe that the elementary years are important not only academically, but socially as well.  It is our job to instill a strong sense of community and caring for each other in our students.  They should feel that Friends Academy is their home away from home.

Interests:

·         sailing – the longer the distance the better.

·         biking – the more exotic the location the better.

·         gardening

·         cross country skiing

·         spending time with my 6 boys (1 husband, 3 sons, and 2 dogs!)

·         perfecting my Red Sox fan skills

·         participating in Westport Monthly Meeting of Friends (Quakers)

Katherine Furtado
Comptroller
kfurtado@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth.  Graduated Cum Laude in June of 1999 with a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics.

Professional Background:
Boston Financial Data Services, Team Leader/Senior Specialist from September 1999 – December 2007.  Responsibilities included researching and resolving accounting discrepancies, reconciliation of bank accounts, audit preparation and review, and many other accounting tasks.

Statement:
Since joining Friends Academy in late 2007, I have felt welcomed and at home.  Friends Academy is a great school, and the children and faculty make each day even better than the last.  I look forward to spending the rest of my career with Friends Academy.

Activities:
I enjoy exercising and outdoor activities (especially the beach).  But most of all I love spending time with my husband, Chris, and my two boys, Ethan and Jack.   

Personal Note:
I love being a mom to my two sons, Ethan and Jack.  They fill my days with joy and love.  Along with my sons, I have several nephews: Zachary, Dylan, Steven, Anthony, and one niece, Jocelyn.

Katherine Roberts-Gaudet

Director, The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy

kgaudet@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Education, Minor in English: University of Maine, Orono
• Master of Special Education: Providence College, RI
• Continuing Education Courses: Harvard Graduate School of Education
• Training to become online Coach for Harvard Graduate School of Education

Experience

• Director of the The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy for children with language-based learning differences
• Friends Academy – Upper School: 6^th grade teacher Life Science, American History, & Health
• Online Coach for Harvard Graduate School Education
• Friends Academy – Upper School 6^th grade teacher American History & Health, Teacher in Support Department
• Friends Academy – Lower School: 4th grade teacher, tutor for children with learning differences
• Private practice:  as consultant, advocate, and tutor for students with learning differences
• The Montessori School, East Providence, RI - Preschool teacher
• Ecole St. Joseph, Ecole Ste. Therese, Toulouse, France -English teacher, preschool- 6^th grade
• St. Aloysius Home for Boys - Teacher
• The Children’s Center Developmental Day Care and Kindergarten, University of Maine, Orono, ME - Teacher

Training:

• Orton-Gillingham Reading Program
• Lindamood Phonemic Sequencing (LiPs)
• Visualizing and Verbalizing for Reading Comprehension
• Stevenson Reading Program
• Semple Math
• Schools Attuned

Philosophy:

Each child comes to us with a unique portfolio of strengths and weaknesses.  It is my belief that there should be no “one size fits all” education and that as teachers, we should meet children where they are on their learning continuum and recognize and utilize their strengths in order to most effectively address their challenges. Curriculum should embrace a variety of methods to shape instruction and meet the students’ needs appropriately.

Pet Peeve:

Why do we label children learning disabled? I would love to see the term learning disability morph to learning diversity. Each human is unique. To reach their potential, all students need to understand what is unique about their learning profile and be taught strategies to best respond to it and develop it. The Greek philosopher Socrates said it best 2500 years ago: “Know thyself.”

§         Academic Secretary, Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA

§         Clerk for Postal Connection, Fall River, MA

§         Owner / Operator Pak Mail, North Dartmouth, MA

Personal Goals:

I started at Friends in August of 1998 as Receptionist / Secretary.  I can truly say that I have loved every minute that I have been here.  The children absolutely make your day a pleasure.  In the office we work toward making everything run smoothly, and I think that we accomplish this.  I work primarily for Bill Perrine, Upper Division Head, and Melinda Foley-Marsello, Lower Division Head, and will continue to support both divisions as we strive to always make Friends Academy the best that it can be.

On a Personal Note:

My husband, Bob, and I have been married for 38 years and have two daughters: Karen, who is 33, and Lisa, who is 31. As our daughters were growing up in Dartmouth, I was a stay-at-home mom who was very involved in scouting and pretty much everything that they were involved in. 

Interests:

I love to paint, scrapbook, make jewelry, work in the garden, and shop.  Most of all, I love being with my girls and my husband.   

Gilly Medeiros

Plant Supervisor

gmedeiros@friendsacademy1810.org

Professional Background:

Gilly began working for a mason contractor and enjoyed learning the construction and masonry trades.  He also worked for a local bus company and U.P.S. 

Friends Academy

Gilly began working at Friends Academy in the early ‘80’s.  Friends Academy needed a bus driver to pick children up for the Summer Program and also needed a part-time maintenance person – he has been here ever since and enjoys the fact that he is doing something different every day.  Just this year, Gilly has taken over as Plant Supervisor and is in charge of a crew of six.  Gilly loves the staff and faculty at Friends and feels they are truly his second family.  Gilly has made many life-time friends here, students included, and hopes to make many more. 

On a Personal Note:

Gilly grew up in Dartmouth, MA, and graduated from Dartmouth High School.  He’s been married to his high-school sweetheart for 32 years and has 2 grown children who are both college graduates and have successful jobs.  Gilly’s family is his number one priority.  He also enjoys playing sports, fishing, and riding his motorcycle, which he’s been doing most of his life.  Gilly also loves to watch all the New England Sports teams and loves to travel.  His most recent trip was a cruise to Bermuda, and he would love to go on a few more cruises to just about anywhere, as he really enjoyed the experience. 

 Dave Mendonca

Maintenance Crew

dmendonca@friendsacademy1810.org

Professional Background:

Dave was Head Custodian at the Luther School in Swansea, MA for many years. 

Friends Academy

Dave is new to Friends Academy and began working in the summer of 2007.  He loves Friends Academy because it gives you the feeling of home. 

On a Personal Note:

Dave grew up in Swansea and graduated from Joseph Case High School.  In his free time he loves spending time with his young son and family and also enjoys trap shooting, running, football, NASCAR racing, and the beach. 

Christine Moore

Network Administrator

cmoore@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         University of Massachusetts, BS, Management Information Systems

·         University of Massachusetts, BS, Marketing

Background:

Christine’s most recent work experience, prior to coming to Friends Academy, was as a Hardware Software Support Specialist at the University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth. Her responsibilities included providing technical support to public access computer labs and electronic classrooms, as well as operating distance learning equipment.

Christine spent six years in the Massachusetts Army National Guard as an Administrative Specialist mainly stationed at Camp Edwards on Cape Cod.  She also participated in a one year deployment at Camp Arifjan Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Interests:

Christine has many interests, but the one that she enjoys above all others is photography. She is an active member of the Boston Photography Center, which is a non profit organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of photography in the state of Massachusetts.

Christine’s other interests include geocaching, travel, camping, hiking, skiing, cooking and gardening.

Charles Pelissier
Director of External Programs

cpelissier@friendsacademy1810.org

Education: 

Mr. P. attended the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature and his teaching certificate in 1995.  He believes in lifelong learning and has continued his education with workshops and seminars both in and out of the field of teaching.

Professional Background:  Before becoming a teacher Mr. P worked in the medical supply field for nine years.  During this time he attended college and realized that his earlier desire to become a teacher was in fact, a very good idea.

Hobbies and interests:  Mr. P enjoys almost all things outdoors.  Rock climbing and cycling are two of his favorites, although he doesn’t get out on the bike as much as he would like.  Hiking and year round tent camping are interests also.   Woodworking, construction, and reading round out his hobbies.  When you can’t find him outside, you may find him building something, fixing something, or reading.

Mr. P has spent most of his life involved with the Boy Scouts of America first as a scout himself, and then as an adult leader for his local scout troop.  This has had an enormous affect on his life and has contributed significantly to what he has brought to Friends Academy.  We see evidence of his hobbies and his work with scouting both in and out of the classroom.  As the director of the summer programs, the ropes course coordinator, and his recent work with the after-school enrichment programs, many of his strengths come into play.  He considers himself lucky to work where that is possible.

Bill Perrine

Head of Upper Division, 8^th Grade Algebra Teacher, Coach

wperrine@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

• Hamilton College, B.A., 1987
• University of San Francisco, M.A.T., Mathematics, 1997

Background:

• Upper Division Head at Friends Academy since 2002. Also teach 8^th grade algebra, direct secondary school placement, and coach basketball.
• Middle School Dean, Math Teacher, and Coach at the Bancroft School in Worcester, MA (2000-2002)
• Math Teacher, P.E. Teacher, and coach at The Town School for Boys in San Francisco, CA (1989-2000)
• Program Director for a summer camp in Portola Valley, CA (1990-2000)

Educational Interests:

• Creating a vibrant learning environment for both students and adults
• Establishing a rigorous, yet balanced, middle school curriculum
• Creating more professional development opportunities here at school through faculty-led workshops and peer partnerships
• Celebrating the myriad gifts of our middle school students and using their passion and energy to generate a rich learning environment
• Providing a safe yet challenging setting for middle school students to make the transition from childhood to young adulthood
• Hiring teachers who know and love their subjects, understand middle-school kids, and appreciate the unpredictability and energy of a middle school.

Activities and Other Interests:

• Guitar player in a local rock band
• Coaching baseball, basketball, and soccer
• Sports: tennis, basketball, golf, soccer, running 

Jodi Pink
Director of Development
jpink@friendsacademy1810.org

 
Education:
B.A. in Sociology, Hamilton College
M.A. in Higher Education Administration, Teachers College at Columbia University
 
Past Experience:
Director of College Counseling at The Hewitt School, New York, NY
Director of Middle & Upper School Admissions at The Hewitt School, New York, NY
Senior Assistant Director of Admissions at New York University, New York, NY
 
On a personal note:
After eleven years spent living in New York City, I recently relocated to Bristol, RI in June 2008 with my husband and young son.  Almost two years and one child later, I am thrilled to be living in the area and am actively trying to become acquainted with all the SouthCoast has to offer.  I enjoy hiking and snowshoeing and can often be found out and about town walking with my kids. I also love to cook and spend a lot of my free time whipping up my share of delicious dinners and disasters.  I am always interested in learning new recipes, so please feel free to share your favorites.    

Dana Raymond

Grounds Maintenance Crew

draymond@friendsacademy1810.org

Professional Background:

Dana has worked at American Iron Works, American Auto Auction, Cranberry Bogs, Al’s Plumbing & heat and many others over the years. 

Friends Academy

Dana loves working at Friends Academy and feels it is the best job he’s ever had because you become a part of the Friends Academy family.  The students and parents make Friends Academy such a great place to work and learn.  Dana loves working outside and taking care of the 65 acre campus.

On a Personal Note:

Dana loves riding his motorcycle, camping, boating, sailing, walking in the woods of Maine, fishing in Canada, Mexico, California and Florida.  He also enjoys kayaking, hunting and spending time with family and friends. 

Maura Reimer

School Nurse, Health Teacher

mreimer@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

§         Cardinal Spellman High School-Brockton MA

§         LaBoure College-Boston MA

§         Certified Clinical Transplant Coordinator

§         Certified Children’s Yoga Teacher 2007

Goal:

In addition to providing a safe and healthy environment, Maura hopes to bring a wellness focus to the students, staff, and families of Friends Academy.

On a Personal Note:

Maura grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, where she attended Cardinal Spellman High School.  After nursing school, she drove across the country to San Francisco where she spent 15 years enjoying the outdoors and the diverse communities of Northern California. At the University of California, San Francisco and University of California, Los Angeles she was a member of the Transplant Team. Part of her role was to travel around the country with the surgical team to procure organs for transplantation: an incredible and fulfilling experience.

Maura and her husband, Richard, with their three children, moved to Massachusetts a few years ago to be closer to family. Since then, they have been enjoying all the seasons, biking, skiing, and spending time on Cape Cod.

If she is not in her office, then you may find her on a nice long run, zipping around town on her scooter, or on the beach collecting sea glass with her family.

Peter Ruscitto

Business Manager

pruscitto@friendsacademy1810.org  

Education:

·         Thayer Academy, Braintree, MA                                            (K-8)

·         The New Hampton School, New Hampton, NH                   (1967)

·         BA History, Denison University Granville, Ohio                      (1971)

·         UCONN, Storrs, CT, course work in U.S. History                 (1975)

Background:

Experience:

·         1999-Present Friends Academy, Dartmouth, MA, Business Manager

·         1999-2001 Friends Academy, Upper Division English Teacher

·         1990-1999  Commercial and Residential Real Estate Business

·         1982-1990 Charles River School, Dover, MA

Business Manager

·         1976-1982 Charles River School

Upper Division Teacher, Athletic Director

Assistant to the Headmaster for non-academic administration

·         1971-1976 The Rectory School, Pomfret, CT,

History Teacher

Dorm Master

Assistant Athletic Director

Coach

·         Summer 1969–1979 Y.M.C.A. Camp Burgess, Sandwich, MA,

·         Aquatics Director, Assistant Camp Director, Camp Director

Volunteer Activities:

·         1992-1995 Board of Trustees, Charles River School, Dover, MA

·         1994-1995 V.P. Board of Trustees, Charles River School

·         1991-1996 Hockey Coach, KP-Walpole Youth Hockey Association

On a Personal Note:

Peter and his wife, Sarah, have lived in Norfolk, Massachusetts, for more than 20 years. While their three children attended independent day schools, family time was filled with school activities, youth sports programs, and many years following Independent School League teams representing five different sports. With grown children, they have more time to enjoy working in their gardens and spending vacation time on Cape Cod, bike riding the network of trails and walking the beaches.

Dawn Terry
Receptionist & Webmaster
dterry@friendsacademy1810.org

Professional Background:

§         Receptionist/Webmaster, Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts

§         Administrative Assistant, Benefit Management Inc., Providence & North Attleboro, Massachusetts

§         Administrative Assistant in the Training Department, AlliedSignal Automotive Aftermarket, marketers of Fram, Bendix & Autolite Products, Rumford, Rhode Island

Goals:

Dawn feels very fortunate to have found a home at Friends Academy and finds great joy in the day-to-day happenings of this wonderful school.   Her goal for Friends is to continue to support the students, parents, faculty, and staff in a positive way as we work together in making the experience at Friends a significant one.   

On a Personal Note:

Dawn grew up in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, and graduated from Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. She is happy raising her family in her husband’s hometown of North Dighton.  Dawn is a busy mom of two girls, Hayley (16) and Hannah (11).  Hayley will be entereing her junior year at Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School and Hannah is entering the 6th grade at Friends Academy.

The Terry family loves to play and watch sports.  Hayley plays high school soccer, softball and competitive travel softball with the Thunder Elite and Mass Fire N' Ice.  Hannah plays soccer with the Tidal Waves Soccer Club and loves to dance.  They have enjoyed traveling to Arizona, Florida, and Maine for baseball tournaments as Dawn's husband, Glenn, enjoys playing baseball with the Men's Senior Baseball League.

When Dawn isn’t attending her family’s games and taking photographs, she is an avid dancer and still takes class every week at Le’Studio Danse and performs each year in the studio’s show.  She has also performed with Soul City Band out of Boston, Mass. 

Bill Perrine

Head of Upper Division, 8^th Grade Algebra Teacher, Coach

wperrine@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

• Hamilton College, B.A., 1987
• University of San Francisco, M.A.T., Mathematics, 1997

Background:

• Upper Division Head at Friends Academy since 2002. Also teach 8^th grade algebra, direct secondary school placement, and coach basketball.
• Middle School Dean, Math Teacher, and Coach at the Bancroft School in Worcester, MA (2000-2002)
• Math Teacher, P.E. Teacher, and coach at The Town School for Boys in San Francisco, CA (1989-2000)
• Program Director for a summer camp in Portola Valley, CA (1990-2000)

Educational Interests:

• Creating a vibrant learning environment for both students and adults
• Establishing a rigorous, yet balanced, middle school curriculum
• Creating more professional development opportunities here at school through faculty-led workshops and peer partnerships
• Celebrating the myriad gifts of our middle school students and using their passion and energy to generate a rich learning environment
• Providing a safe yet challenging setting for middle school students to make the transition from childhood to young adulthood
• Hiring teachers who know and love their subjects, understand middle-school kids, and appreciate the unpredictability and energy of a middle school.

Activities and Other Interests:

• Guitar player in a local rock band
• Coaching baseball, basketball, and soccer
• Sports: tennis, basketball, golf, soccer, running 

Richard X. Beyer
Latin teacher
rbeyer@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

B.A. in history and English, Yale University

Background:

I was born and raised in Baltimore, and spent four years teaching in Pittsburgh and now enjoying my 3rd year at Friends.  My wife is a third year medical resident at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. 

Interests:

Parenting our two sons; reading (and listening to) books;  exercising when possible; whistling incessantly.

Paula Daigle

Spanish Teacher

pdaigle@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

• BridgewaterState College, BA Spanish

Professional Background:

• Spanish teacher, New BedfordHigh School
• Spanish teacher, RandolphSr.High School Jr./
• 1^st year Spanish teacher, SUNY Stonybrook
• Independent English teacher/ tutor, Caparroso, NavarraSpain,
• Swimming Instructor, YMCA, YWCA, Town of Caparroso
• Book buyer, Baker Books

Personal Background:

I was born in MadridSpain,New BedfordMA. I keep close connections with family and friends in Spain and travel there every summer. Caparroso is my favorite place to be and where I consider home. My permanent home is in Fairhaven, where I live with my daughter,Isabel. I volunteer every Saturday at the YMCA teaching parent with child swimming lessons. I love to read and am quite a handy-woman. I always have a home renovation project going on., ,

Wendy Goldsmith

Upper Division Art Teacher

wgoldsmith@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:  

• Masters Degree of Art Teaching, University of Massachusetts, Amherst -1982              
• Bachelors Degree of Fine Arts, Printmaking, University of Massachusetts, Amherst -1978
• Art History, Northeastern University -1973-1976
• Cultural Studies, Jerusalem Institute, Jerusalem, Israel -1972-1973
• Massachusetts Department of Education Certification since 1982

Teaching Experience:

• Art Teacher, Friends Academy, grades 5-8, North Dartmouth, MA-1987 to present
• Art Teacher, Fall River Public Schools, grades K-6
• Teaching Assistant, University of Massachusetts, Amherst-1981-1982

On a personal note:

Being a teacher makes you a life-long learner. I have taken many ceramic courses at UMass-Dartmouth. For the past four summers I have gone to the Castle Hill Center for the Arts in Truro, Massachusetts, to study with nationally known ceramics artists. The pottery I make is either wheel-thrown or handbuilt. I strive to integrate function and beauty into my work. My hope is that my pieces will enrich people’s celebration and bring a smile with everyday use.

View Wendy’s work here:

Aqua Teapot

Aqua Bowl

Green Teapot

Green Bowl

Bowl

Ann Haggerty
Athletic Director
ahaggerty@friendsacademy1810.org

Education

• Kingswood-Oxford School, West Hartford, CT
• William Smith College, Geneva, NY, B.A. Art History
• Central Connecticut State University, Teaching Certification in PE/Health

Background

I have taught and coached people of all ages over the course of the past 17 years. Following college, when my youthful competitive zeal still dominated, I coached women’s college soccer teams at Hamilton College and Carnegie Mellon University. When I felt my interests broadening, I turned to the classroom setting, where I taught English – and coached various sports – at Watkinson School in Hartford, CT. And, finally, when I became aware of a strong desire to combine the practice of teaching with the content areas of movement studies and sport skills, I began a physical education teaching career.  In recent years I have taught PE and Health to elementary and middle school students in Connecticut. Now, as I join the Friends Academy community, I feel grateful to have the opportunity to share my classroom and athletics experiences with all the eager and energetic students here at my new home.

Philosophy

All children have the right to experience an enduring sense of well-being, and all children should be taught that achieving this is an ongoing process.  Within a safe, engaging, and challenging physical education program, students gain opportunities to explore and grow in the emotional, physical, and cognitive domains… and sometimes they just get crazy and have fun.

David Lobato

6th, 7th & 8th Grade Math
dlobato@friendsacademy1810.org

Education

·         Rhode Island College – Mathematics, Mass Communications

·         University of Phoenix – Secondary Education

Background

·         St. Dunstan’s Day School, Providence, RI – Middle & Upper School Mathematics, Middle School Science

·         Sunrise Academy, Scituate, RI – Middle School Mathematics, Science, Social Studies

·         Member, Rhode Island Mathematics Teachers’ Association

Interests, Activities

·         Youth baseball coach

·         Games coordinator for a local AWANA program

Good Websites

·         National Library of Virtual Manipulatives –(nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/vlibrary.html)

·         Coolmath.com – (www.coolmath.com)

·         Figure This – Math Challenges for Families – (www.figurethis.org )

Personal

·         Married – Wendy Lobato

·         2 Children – Sarah (10/97) and Daniel (12/98)

·         1 Dog – Cinnamon (Golden Retriever / Poodle mix)

Morgan Lord

8th Grade Social Studies

mlord@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

· University of New Hampshire, B.A. History

· Boston University, M.Ed Curriculum and Teaching

Experience:

· Taught Social Studies and American History to both domestic and international students at Fay School from 2005-2009. In conjunction with teaching, acted as a live-in dorm parent, coach, advisor, and summer school teacher/administrator.

· Assistant Director of a fundraising and campaign office during the 2004 Presidential Election

Philosophy:

I am committed to making my classroom an exciting and engaging place to learn. Through my previous teaching experience and recent graduate studies, I have developed a greater understanding of how students learn and have explored strategies to help me teach to a diverse group of learners. I strive to teach every lesson in a variety of ways, valuing the efficacy of differentiated instruction. Ttechnology is becoming an integral part of my classroom, as is skill building. Moreover, my previous teaching experience taught me how important it is to encourage ethical thought, believing that our responsibilities as educators reach well beyond the classroom.

Personal:

I love to be on the water (preferably in a canoe) and have spent many summers on the coast of Maine and on the St. Lawrence River in upstate New York. In my career I had the good fortune to travel to Chile, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and Appalachia, individually and with students, and often for service learning experiences. I enjoy following American politics and imagine someday volunteering on a campaign again. I am a huge fan of the TV show The West Wing and wish it were still on the air!

Jacqueline A. Maillet
Music Teacher

jmaillet@friendsacademy1810.org

Jacqueline A. Maillet is a 2005 UMass Dartmouth graduate.  She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelors Degree in music.  Her principal instrument is the piano.  She currently has 18 private students.  She encourages all her students to prepare for, and participate in, an annual piano recital.  Her classroom experience includes teaching grades 5 through 8 in a general music class and also directing the school choir at the Nativity Preparatory School for Boys in New Bedford, Massachusetts.  She also created and implemented a summer music program at the St. Vincent de Paul Home for Boys in Westport, Massachusetts.

Ms. Maillet is an accomplished church musician, working for multiple denominations.  She embraces every opportunity to play music with others, and enjoys accompanying under the direction of local music directors.

Leslie Meehan

6th & 7th Grade Sally Borden Math and Science Teacher

Field Hockey, Girls’ Basketball and Girls’ Lacrosse Coach

ljubinville@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

Fitchburg State College, BS Biology

University of Phoenix

Working toward M.A.T. Science and Special Education

Experience:    

The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy, 2008-Present

Camp Nashoba - Waterfront Director, Summers 1997-Present

Fall River Public School - Alt. High School, 2007-2008

South Shore Charter Public School, 2005-2007

Frederick Douglas Charter School, 2004-2005

Eagle Hill School, 2001-2004

Assabet Valley Voc. Tech, 2000-2001

Philosophy: 

Teaching in a variety of educational settings has given me the ability to believe that all students have the ability to learn if they are given the proper tools and guided in a positive, open, and structured environment.  Each student learns differently and each students’ style needs to be recognized and acknowledged in order for each of them to grow to their full potential.

Personal:

When I am not teaching and coaching, I like to spend time with my son, Luke.  We enjoy spending time outside swimming, playing soccer, and watching Star Wars and Harry Potter movies.   On the odd chance that I have alone time, I love losing myself in a good book,  long runs and bike rides, traveling to warm places, cooking and playing the piano.

Mary Pierce  

Science Teacher

mpierce@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         Kent School, 1971

·         Carleton College, BA Chemistry, 1975

·         Mississippi State University, MS Geosciences, 2004

Background:

·         Friends Academy, 2000 – present

·         Tabor Academy, 1979 – 1984, 1996 – 1998

·         Polaroid, New Bedford, MA, 1979 – 1980

·         Procter and Gamble Fox River Pulp Mill, Green Bay, WI, 1975 – 1978

·         US Sailing Judge, 1980: Senior Judge, 1986

Judged Laser and Laser Radial Olympic Trials, 2007

Starting Line Judge for Sailboards, 1996 Olympics

·         Member National Association of Science Teachers, 2000 - present

Interests and Activities:

I enjoy sailing, gardening, cooking, singing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. 

On a Personal Note:

I lived aboard a 52-foot ketch with my husband and 4 children from 1994 – 1995 and 1998 – 1999.  We traveled from Marion, Massachusetts to the Bahamas and back via the Intracoastal Waterway the first year and traveled the Northern Loop ( Massachusetts to the Hudson River, Erie Canal, Great Lakes, inland canals and rivers to Mobile, Alabama) to the Virgin Islands and back the second year.

Steve Robitaille
The Sally Borden School 6^th & 8^th grade Language Arts and Social Studies
srobitaille@friendsacademy1810.org

 
Education:

Rhode Island College, Providence, RI

BS Elementary Education/Special Education: Learning Disabilities (1981)

College of New Rochelle, New Rochelle, NY

MS School Supervision and Administration (1989)

Professional Employment:

Teacher/Guidance & Director of Placement, Hamilton School at Wheeler, Providence, RI. The Wheeler School is a pre-K through twelve, college preparatory program. The Hamilton School at Wheeler is a school within a school for students with language-based learning differences in grades one through eight.  (1998-2010)

Director of Dunne Institute Summer Program, Providence, RI. The Dunne Institute (formerly the Hamilton Institute) Summer Program was created to offer remedial support in math, language arts, and Orton-Gillingham during the summer.  (2000-2004)

Teacher, Brunswick School, Greenwich, CT. (Head teacher: third and fifth grades) Brunswick is an independent college preparatory day school for boys pre-K through twelfth grade.  (1987-1998)

Teacher, Eagle Hill School, Greenwich, CT.  Eagle Hill is an independent school for children with learning differences, aged 6-16, which maintains a day program and a residential facility. (1981-1987)

Personal Note:

I live in Buzzards Bay with my wife, JoAnna, yellow lab named Maggie, and 19 year-old-cat named Crouton. We love travel, the beach, kayaking, and spending time with family and friends. I am truly happy to be a part of the Friends Academy community and the very special Sally Borden School. 

Stephen Walach

English Teacher

swalach@friendsacademy1810.org

I clearly remember a spring day during my sophomore year of college.  I was pre-med but not exactly excelling in organic chemistry, one of those non-negotiable med school pre-requisites. Beyond that I was being pulled toward the big questions that have concerned human beings since the dawn of consciousness.  Another year of memorizing complex chemical formulas and puzzling over the double bonds of the carbon atom just left me cold. 

It was then that I decided to follow the better – and more apt – angels of my nature. I registered for courses from numerous disciplines – literature, religious studies, anthropology, philosophy, sociology, psychology and biology.  I had found classes and professors that suited my thirst for knowledge of a different sort.  Eventually the university granted me a major in Human Studies, a concentration that was independently coordinated and designed not by an academic department but by the individual student. 

I easily recall that change of direction, that shift in perspective, because I think it was then that I became a committed learner – a person less concerned with employing my education to achieve social status or financial reward, and more responsive to the pull of the heart, wherever it might lead.

As a junior I joined a group of students who were peacefully, and effectively, lobbying for curriculum reform – an attitude and goal that contrasted with the demeanor of an otherwise turbulent generation generally known as “the sixties.”  Time magazine took note of the difference and praised the changes we effected at Brown University – reforms that are still in place nearly forty years later.  Learning, thinking, writing and educating have been at the core of my adult life ever since. 

In many ways my approach has been a traditional one.  I received a masters degree in English education, taught in both public and independent schools, and attended a wide range of teacher-related workshops and seminars.  As a learner I feel a duty to pass along what I’ve learned, a calling I take very seriously.  I am most grateful there exists a way for me to make a living simply by sharing the ephemeral fruits of my otherwise impractical passions. 

I generally regard myself more of a student than teacher, much more aspirant than master, and as a result much of my learning has come in non-traditional venues.  I’ve spent weeks in the backcountry and several years in an ashram. I’ve been a ropes course facilitator, a wilderness EMT, and a conscientious objector.  I’ve trained with the Santa Monica Track Club and back in ancient history I was both Rhode Island and New England schoolboy champion in the 440 yard run.  Events on the world stage have vexed me, and coaxed from my laptop numerous letters-to-the-editor, several articles and the beginnings of a historical novel.

My teachers are many: Socrates and Shakespeare; Dostoevsky and Prem Rawat; Rumi, Kabir and Dylan; the Torah and the gospels; the mountains, forests, coral reefs and my little garden; numerous teachers and coaches, my family, much-loved companions, and the children I’m supposed to be teaching, to name but a few. 

However, the greatest teacher and best classroom is life itself, and if I aspire to anything it is this mad epigram by Emily Dickinson: “I find life itself so surprising I hardly have time for anything else.”       

Peter Zine

6^th Grade Science and Social Studies

pzine@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts - History, Bridgewater State College, 2000
• Massachusetts Teacher’s Licensure, Bridgewater State College, 2001
• Master of Science - Ecological Teaching and Learning, Lesley University, 2004

Professional Background:

• This is my third year teaching sixth grade at Friends Academy.
• I worked for The Trustees of Reservations as a Property Steward from 2005-2006.
• I taught 6^th Grade at the Quashnet School in Mashpee from 2001-2004.
• In 2001 I taught a Medieval History Course for the College Academy Summer Program.

Personal Interests and Involvement:
Over the years, I’ve enjoyed many and varied wilderness adventures – from hiking in the Berkshires to cliff diving in Fiji. I’ve also had the privilege of admiring vistas from the mountains of Maine to the bays of Alaska. But the predominant setting of my story has always been Southeastern Massachusetts, Wareham more specifically.  With the exception of my wonderful family and friends nothing has shaped my life more than this place.  Since the early days of my youth I’ve been exploring the woods and waterways of the Buzzards Bay watershed – sometimes with a family member or friend by my side, and almost always with a dog.  When not surrounded by trees or water, my days were typically spent in classrooms – as a boy in Wareham’s Public Schools, and eventually at Lesley University where I earned a Master’s degree in Ecological Teaching and Learning. 

These days, most of my travels and adventures involve my wife, Heather; our three year old daughter, Hannah; and our dog, Maggie.  I continue to enjoy school, though now as a teacher, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share my passion for history and natural science with others.  Having taught in both public and independent schools, I’m cognizant of how wonderfully unique Friends Academy is, and I’m honored to be a part of this community.

Melinda Foley-Marsello

Head of Lower Division

mfoley-marsello@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

M.Ed. in reading – Rhode Island College

B.A. in psychology and secondary education – Kirkland College

Background:

The 2007-2008 school year is my third year at Friends Academy.  Before coming to Friends Academy, I was very fortunate to wear many hats during my 18 years at Moses Brown School in Providence.  At Moses Brown, I taught 5^th grade, Kindergarten, and finally 1^st grade, which is when I decided to pursue my masters degree in reading.  My last five years at Moses Brown, I served as the language arts coordinator, developing curriculum and working with students and teachers in preschool through grade five.  I also served as the diversity coordinator for the lower school. 

I feel my many roles at Moses Brown helped prepare me for the wonderful challenge of being a division head.  Working with teachers, parents, and students gives me an incredible opportunity to view the educational environment of Friends from a broad perspective.

Philosophy:

It is an incredible gift to be able to be a part of a child’s earliest educational experience.  The early years are when a love of learning and excelling are established.   I also believe that the elementary years are important not only academically, but socially as well.  It is our job to instill a strong sense of community and caring for each other in our students.  They should feel that Friends Academy is their home away from home.

Interests:

·         sailing – the longer the distance the better.

·         biking – the more exotic the location the better.

·         gardening

·         cross country skiing

·         spending time with my 6 boys (1 husband, 3 sons, and 2 dogs!)

·         perfecting my Red Sox fan skills

·         participating in Westport Monthly Meeting of Friends (Quakers)

  Gayle Balestracci

Third Grade Teacher

gbalestracci@friendsacademy1810.org

Education

·         Bridgewater State College

B.S. in Special Education and Elementary Education

Background:

Title I Reading and Math Teacher at Acushnet Elementary School, 1976

Support Teacher and afternoon Kindergarten Teacher at Friends Academy, 1981

Grade Three Classroom Teacher at Friends Academy, 1983 - present

Jim Bean

Lower Division Music & Drama

jbean@friendsacademy1810.org

Jim Bean is a veteran teacher with twenty-four years of experience, seventeen of which have been at Friends Academy. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Lowell, and also studied Theater and Literature at Western Maryland College. He is certified by the American Orff-Schulwerk Association, and also teaches guitar, banjo, and mandolin privately.

Jim has also been performing traditional American and British Isles music at festivals and coffee-houses for over thirty years and performs choral music with a number of local ensembles, including Sine Nomine, a 24 member acapella chorus based in Fall River.

When not performing, you will find him sailing with his family on Buzzard’s Bay.

Dana K. Bullard

Preschool Teacher

dbullard@friendsacademy1810.org

       Education:      

·   B.A. Humanities and Social Sciences (1999)

                   Summa Cum Laude                             

           University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, MA

                                    Concentration in Early Childhood Education

·         A.A., Early Childhood Education (1974)

                                                Pine Manor College, Chestnut Hill, MA

       Experience:

· Preschool Teacher (2000- present) Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA

· Preschool Assistant (1998- 2000) Friends Academy

· Long-term substitute, Preschool (Feb.- June 1999) Friends Academy

· Long-term substitute, Kindergarten (Nov.- Dec. 1997) Friends Academy

· Director of After School Program (1996- 1998) Friends Academy                                                        

· Special Education Aide (1989-1992)

                                    North Grafton Elementary School, North Grafton, MA

· Preschool teacher (1983- 1985)

                                    Grafton Center Playschool, Grafton, MA

· “I Can Read Program” volunteer.  (1983-1985)        

                                    North Grafton Elementary School, North Grafton, MA

        Related        

        Experience:

· Ski Instructor  (1988-1991)

                                    Magic Mountain, Londonderry, VT 

· Director of Camp Nonquitt, (summer 1992)

                                    Nonquitt, South Dartmouth, MA. Directed summer recreational program.           

· Camp Counselor for the Quebec Labrador Foundation (summer 1972)

                                    Developed a day camp for underprivileged children in Labrador.                                                                                                                                       

                                    http://www.qlf.org/  

       Interests &

       Activities :         

·       Skiing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, gardening, cooking, reading and spending

time with my family and friends! Photo of my 4 kids… Pete, Anna, Ben and

Lindsay.

·         Board Member & Volunteer for  Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust: http://www.dnrt.org/

·         Actively committed to living more simply, efficiently and with less impact on 

                              the environment.

Tanner W. Church

5^th Grade Teacher

tchurch@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

Graduate of Providence Country Day School

Quinnipiac University 1999-2002

B.A. Communication (Television and Radio Production)

Minor in Fine Arts and Political Science

Background:

Substitute Teacher, Friends Academy, 2008

Athletic Coach, Friends Academy, 2008

Substitute teacher  Providence Country Day 2004

Program Director, Camp Takodah in New Hampshire, 1999-2006

Cabin Leader and Counselor, Camp Takodah (boys ages 10-17), 1996-1999

Trained in Responsive Classroom (www.responsiveclassroom.org)

Interests:

Activities:     I am a firm believer in outdoor education.  I have been actively involved with NOLS (http://www.nols.edu) and Outward Bound (http://www.outwardbound.org).  I try to implement their philosophies when I can, “to inspire character development and self-discovery in people of all ages and walks of life through challenge and adventure, and to impel them to achieve more than they ever thought possible, to show compassion for others and to actively engage in creating a better world.”        

Sports:        I enjoy lacrosse, golf, football, baseball, basketball, and swimming.

Susan Cogliano

Art Teacher of Lower Division

scogliano@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

§         UMass Dartmouth, Bachelor of Fine Arts

§         Degree in Art Education, 1990

§         Concentration in Visual Design

§         Graduate courses in Artists’ Books, Curriculum Design, and Calligraphy, UMass

§         Continuing Education classes in teaching children with special needs

Background:

Prior to joining the faculty of Friends Academy, I taught in Mattapoisett for ten years.  I began working in the Special Needs Department first, then as an Art Teacher at the Old Hammondtown and Center Schools.  While there, I had the privilege of coordinating the Peer Mediation Program and taught conflict resolution skills to students in the district.

I came to Friends in 2004 and was struck by the sense of community, the collaboration, and by the effort put forth by all teachers to integrate art and music into all subjects.  It reinforced a concept which I have always held to be true – that art encompasses all aspects of life.

My greatest accomplishment has been in raising and teaching my own children, Lily (3) and Liam (5) who attends preschool here at Friends.  It is through them that I draw inspiration for my own work.

Educational Philosophy:

My goal as a teacher is to inspire my students to experience self-expression, self-confidence, creativity, and an appreciation for the Arts – ultimately, to enrich their lives.

Interests & Hobbies:

§         designing innovative lessons for integration

§         art inspired by nature

§         signs, lettering, & calligraphy

§         mixed media collage

§         skiing, hiking, cooking, gardening, and day tripping with my kids

Brigid Conlon

Second Grade Teacher

bconlon@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

Hobart and William Smith Colleges, B.A.

Background: 

After spending part of last year in a long-term substitute teaching position, I realized Friends Academy was a good fit for me. I’m excited about my first full year in the second grade classroom. This year will be my third year as an upper division girls’ lacrosse coach. During the summer, I’m a teacher at Summer Friends.

Educational Philosophy: 

I believe it is important to know each of my students, not just on the academic level, but on the individual level. If I have made a connection with a student, they are more likely to blossom academically. I also believe it is important that each child understand that they are an essential part of our community, inside and outside the classroom.

Kelly Dias
4th Grade Teacher
kdias@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

Rhode Island College, MA, Special Education, 2008

University of Vermont, BS, Elementary Education, 2005

Certifications:

Elementary Education- Rhode Island

Special Education- Rhode Island

Background:

Kelly grew up in Brattleboro, VT, and attended local public school all the way through high school.  She has always enjoyed working with children and she coached a competitive gymnastics team for five years in addition to competing herself for nine years.  She enjoyed playing high school sports as well, including field hockey and lacrosse, of which she was captain her senior year. 

Many of Kelly’s family members are teachers, including both of her parents, so it wasn’t a surprise when she chose to study Elementary Education at the University of Vermont.  After moving to Rhode Island and taking an interest in Special Education following employment at the Providence Center School, Kelly completed a Master’s Degree in Special Education in December 2008.

Throughout her four years at the Providence Center School, Kelly took on three different roles:  Technology Integration Specialist, First Grade Teacher, and Sixth and Seventh Grade Teacher.  All of these were great experiences for her, and have prepared her to take the next step in her career at The Sally Borden School!

Experience:

Friends Academy, North Dartmouth 2010 to present
Athletic Coach at Friends Academy 2009 to present
Sally Borden School at Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA, 2009-2010

Upper Division Social Studies and Language Arts Teacher

The Providence Center School, Providence, RI 2005-2009

Technology Integration/Classroom Teacher

Debbi Dyson

Spanish Teacher for 1^st and 2^nd grade

ddyson@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

American University, BA, School of International Service, Major: International Development, Minor: Spanish

Experience:

International Institute of Rhode Island, English as a Second Language teacher for Political Refugees new to the U.S.

Helping Hands and Hooves, Director, Therapeutic Horseback Riding for adults with disabilities.

Mattapoisett Friends of the Library, Spanish Language classes for elementary aged students.

Habitat for Humanity, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Guatemala. Director of the training center for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Personal:

My husband Erik and I live in Mattapoisett with our 3 children; Franck is 18, Jackie is 12 and Abby is 9. We also have a dog named Sammy who is 11. 

I love to travel, kayak, bike ride and explore new places and cultures.

Nancy Fletcher
First Grade Teacher
nfletcher@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         B.S. in Elementary Education – University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Background:

The 2010-2011 School year is my 30th year at Friends Academy!  I began my career in Falmouth, teaching third grade for two years.  Then I moved to Mattapoisett and taught second grade for two more years.  For the next seven years, I did private tutoring in my home as I raised my family.  In 1981, I came to Friends Academy with two sons in tow, taught second grade for 15 years, and for the last 14 years taught first grade. 

Reflections:

Throughout my years at Friends Academy, I have enjoyed the camaraderie of many talented, dedicated colleagues, the support of parents who value education, and most of all, the trust, enthusiasm, and diversity of the small group of 6-year-olds in my charge.  I am grateful to Friends Academy for its commitment to providing and valuing teacher education through workshops and seminars to stay abreast of new developments in education. 

Interests:

·         Gardening – I even like to weed!

·         Tennis – my husband is a teaching pro

·         Golfing – my son is a golf professional

·         Basket-making – especially Nantucket

·         Puzzles – The Globe Daily Crossword and 1,000-piece jigsaws

·         Reading – recreational and educational

Alyson Gangi

Kindergarten Teacher

agangi@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         Westfield State College, 2000

BA in Early Childhood education     

Dual major in Psychology

Experience:

·         Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA 2005-Present - Kindergarten Teacher

·         The Gordon School, East Providence, RI  2001-2004 - Director of After School Programs            

2001-2002 - Nursery Teacher  

·         Bay Club, Mattapoisett, MA Summer 2005 - Director of summer camp

·         Oliver Day School, East Providence, RI 2000-2003 - Co-Director (infant-preschool)

Educational Philosophy:

To have a deep respect for the potential of all children.  To create a rich environment which is engaging, welcoming, and supportive to children, parents, and the community. 

I believe that children learn as a result of their own doing, through actions, relationships, inquiries, opportunities, and repetition.  

  Lena A. Graham

Assistant Teacher for the Library

lgraham@friendsacademy1810.org

·         A graduate of Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, attaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education, Lena was a thirty-eight-year veteran teacher of first grade in New Bedford Massachusetts before joining the staff at Friends Academy in 2003.

·         Further studies include courses at the University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth, courses at Rhode Island College and at Assumption College in Worcester, as well as numerous multi-faceted educational workshops, provided by the School Department of New Bedford.

·         Serving as Scholarship Chairperson of Delta Sigma Theta Inc. for a number of years, Lena organized and facilitated all processes resulting in scholarships for area minority high school students entering a four-year college.

Lena feels herself inspired and fortunate to have attended a symposium in Providence, Rhode Island, which explained the great value and importance of consciousness-based education.

Janice Griffin

Library Media Specialist

jgriffin@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:      

·         B.S. Management, Bryant University

·         M.A. Sociology, University of Connecticut

·         MLIS, University of Rhode Island

Certification: School Library Media – State of RI

Background:

Tiverton Library Services, Tiverton, RI

Assistant Director/Youth Services Librarian

·         Oversaw youth services department, principally in the areas of collection development, programming, and collaboration with local school department

·         Assisted in the operation and administration of the library

·         Updated and maintained the library website

·         Provided Reference and Reader’s Advisory assistance

·         Successful grant writing and fundraising

·         Participated in national and state conferences and meetings

·         Active participant in the Friends of Tiverton Libraries organization

·         Served as Acting Director for a 3-month period

Cooperating Libraries Automated Network (CLAN)

Webmaster, CLAN web site

·         Redesigned and updated the CLAN web site

Office of Library and Information Services, Providence, RI          

Webmaster, Summer Reading Program web site

·         Created, updated, and maintained a web site for the annual summer reading program sponsored, in part, by the Office of Library and Information Services

Professional organizations:     

·         Rhode Island Educational Media Association

·         Massachusetts School Library Association

·         Rhode Island Teen Book Award Committee

·         American Library Association

Jodi Lawless

4th Grade Sally Borden School Teacher

jlawless@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

The American University, Washington, DC, M.A. Special Education – learning differences

The American University, Washington, DC, B.A. Psychology, minor in Special Education

Providence College, Providence, RI, Special Education Administration coursework

Background:

·    The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy (4^th Grade Teacher)

·    the Wolf School, East Providence, RI (K-2^nd Grade Teacher)

·  The Lab School of Washington, Washington DC (Summer Program Coordinator)

·  The Lab School of Washington, Washington DC (3^rd-4^th Grade Teacher)

Certifications:

·    Rhode Island Certification - Elementary Education

·    Rhode Island Certification - Special Education

·  Rhode Island Certification - Special Education Administration

Personal Information:

Jodi lives in Warren, RI with her husband Eamon and their Brittany Spaniel named Eddie. She likes trying new recipes, walking and exploring the East Bay Bike Path, tennis, and is an avid Red Sox fan. She enjoys learning new strategies from her colleagues and is happy to embark upon a new educational career at The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy.

 Lee MacGregor

3^rd Grade Sally Borden School Teacher

lmacgregor@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

Lesley College/Shady Hill Teacher Training Course, Cambridge, MA

Masters of Education

Massachusetts Certification

Colby College, Waterville, ME

BA in French and Education

Universite de Caen, Normandy, France

French Studies

Background:

·    The Sally Borden School at Friends Academy (Third Grade Teacher)

·    Learning Specialist, Providence, RI & Dartmouth, MA (Private Practice)

·    Friends Academy (Learning Support Teacher)

·    Lincoln School, Providence, RI (Pre-Kindergarten Teacher)

·    The Fayerweather Street School, Cambridge, MA (Kindergarten Teacher)

·    The Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA (Apprentice Teacher)

·    Tabor Academy, Marion, MA (Summer French Teacher & Soccer Coach)

Professional Training:

·    Orton-Gillingham

·    Project Read - Reading Comprehension

·    Project Read - Written Expression

·    Teaching for Understanding (Harvard University)

·    Reggio Emilia Training and Internship Program

Philosophy:

I feel privileged to be a part of my students’ lives and to spend my days learning with them. I believe strongly that in order to be meaningful, learning must be active, relevant, and multi-sensory. It is my goal to honor each student’s individual learning style, and to make strong connections between home and school life.

On a Personal Note:

I am passionate about my family! I live in South Dartmouth with my husband Stuart, our children, Emmett and Avery (1st Grade and Preschool students at Friends Academy), and our dog Chloe. After six wonderful years of part-time private practice and being home with my kids, I am excited to be back in the classroom in a community that I love.

Angela R. Martin

Kindergarten Teacher

amartin@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         Bachelor of Arts Degree from Bridgewater State College

·         Continuing Education Classes in Elementary School, University of Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Certification:

·         Massachusetts Educator’s License-Elementary Education

Professional Development:

·         Responsive Classroom

·         BER’s Strengthening your students’ Writing Skills Seminar

Background:

·         Worked in the public relations field before teaching - Moore and Isherwood, Inc.

·         Substitute taught in preschool- 8th grade for three years prior to becoming a classroom teacher – Mattapoisett, Dartmouth, New Bedford, and Acushnet, MA

·         Fifth Grade Language Arts Teacher – Friends Academy

·         Second Grade Teacher – Friends Academy

·         Kindergarten Teacher – Friends Academy

Interests and Activities:

Volunteer Activities:

Sunday School Teacher and Usher at Christian Fellowship Center in New Bedford, MA

Activities:

Vocalist for weddings, christenings/dedications, church functions, nursing home entertainment, and other events.

Interests:

Photography, singing, cooking, reading, playing games, spending fun time with my family, and anything that leads to laughter.

Helen Temple Mitchell

Lower Division Science Teacher

tmitchell@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:

·         Southeastern Massachusetts University, BS Textile Science concentration: Dyeing and Finishing

·         University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth, Continuing Education classes in Secondary Education: Science concentration

·         Massachusetts Teachers Educator License: Science grades 5-8

Science-related Experiences:

·         Supervisor of Pigment Production -  Fall River Textile Plant

·         Textile Chemical Company Regional Sales Representative

·         Mad Scientist

·         Long-term Substitute Science Teacher -  Old Rochester Regional Junior High School 8^th grade

·         Facilitator/Instructor YMCA  ‘Science for Preschoolers’

·         Instructor of Crime Scene Investigation before-school program - Sippican Elementary School, grades 3-6

·         Electrician’s assistant

Other Experiences:    

·         Facilitator/Instructor Tri-Town Playgroup

·         OCCS Certified Preschool Teacher

·         Long-term Substitute for Speech and Language Department -  Sippican Elementary School, grades Pre-K-6

Educational Vision:

Create an environment that allows students to wonder, seek information and gain knowledge so that they may become life-long learners.   I get the most enjoyment teaching when I see the children having fun while they are learning. 

 Activities, Interests and Plans:

·         Assistant Field Hockey Coach, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 2006, 2007

·         Boston Field Hockey Umpires Association member and active participant 1996-2006

·         Allendale Country Club Member 2001-present

·         Summer Friends Camp Instructor

On a Personal Note:

I enjoy geo-caching, camping and golfing with my family.  I love to sew and try new recipes in my spare time.

Stephen J. Mogilnicki

Third Grade Teacher

smogilnicki@friendsacademy1810.org

Education:   

Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA

Masters in Counseling

Bachelor of Arts, 1983, Amherst, MA

Professional Experience:

·         1995-Present, Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA - Teacher, Grade Three

·         1983-1995, Friends Academy, North Dartmouth, MA - Teacher, Grade One               

·         2004-Present, Mass. Maritime Academy, Bourne, MA - Instructor, SCUBA

·         1998-2002, University of Massachusetts, North Dartmouth, MA - Instructor, SCUBA

·         1996-2002, New Bedford High School, New Bedford, MA - Bright Nights Program

·         1994-1995, Project Adventure, New Bedford, MA                            

Personal Interests and Experiences: