Windham School District

We’re incredibly proud of our amazing staff across the district, many of whom work behind the scenes without the recognition they deserve. This year, we’re changing that! Each week, we’ll be shining a spotlight on one of our dedicated team members. Learn more about our staff and their vital roles in supporting our schools.

What is your role for the 2024-25 school year, and how long have you worked with the district? 

I am the Director of Fine Arts for the Windham School District K-12.  I have held this position since 2018.  

What inspired you to pursue the position and join our school/district/community?

I had interviewed in Windham before being offered this position. I remember that I noticed a strong sense of community. Even as I awaited my interview at the SAU, I thought, "This is the positive atmosphere I want to be a part of." It was not my time, and I was not offered the position.

However, when the position became available again, I had the opportunity to interview again. I wanted to be a part of this community, so I was so happy to be presented with a job offer!!! I have come to discover that I was right about the Windham community. I am glad I pursued this district a second time. 

What is one thing you’re most excited about contributing to our community?

I am most excited about maintaining a strong arts program for the Windham School District students. There are talented students in music, theater, dance, and visual arts, as well as cooking, baking, and TV production. There truly is something for everyone. I am proud of the Fine Arts team. The staff has a strong passion for helping to keep these programs growing. 

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work? 

I love to be outside. During the warmer months, I enjoy working in my yard. I also love being in my kitchen and cooking for a crowd. My family still holds the tradition of Sunday dinner, and I love it when I can cook for the 20+ family members who attend. 

Can you share a favorite book, movie, or podcast that has impacted you? 

I am not an avid reader; however, I love to read cookbooks because of my passion for cooking. 

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I plan to visit Lebanon someday. I am Lebanese and Italian. Thanks to our music trips, I have had the opportunity to see Italy. Now, I would like to see and explore Lebanon. 

What is your role for the 2024-25 school year?  

I am the School to Career Coordinator at Windham High School. I set up internships, oversee community service hours, and help with the school store.

What inspired you to pursue the position and join our school/district/community?

I have been in the district for about ten years helping students and have found it very rewarding. There are great students in this town.

My Mom has always been my driving force regarding careers and jobs. I watched her work a job she didn’t like for many years and heard her complain about how much she didn’t enjoy it, which made me realize how much it can impact your happiness and outlook.

I strongly believe people need to like what they do for a career. Most of the hours each day are spent at a job, and if you don’t enjoy what you do, you can experience a lot of negativity and not much happiness. In my opinion, life is too short to be unhappy every day.

What is one thing you’re most excited about contributing to our community? 

Community Service! I love the idea of giving back to the community. It is part of what makes Windham so great! Community service can be an excellent habit, and the sooner our students try it - and feel how nice it is to give some of their time to help someone else, the easier it will be for them to make it a good habit, too. I think some view the graduation requirement as just another box to check. I see it as a way to expose them to new experiences and maybe see some parts of life we are not regularly exposed to in our day-to-day schedules.

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work? 

I love to do projects around my house, kayak with my husband, and work in my garden. I also enjoy spending time with my family (kids and husband) on day trips or longer trips where we are forced to disconnect from our lives. 

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? 

In my childhood, my family traveled every year. My parents and sister love and need to keep going places to this day. I did not get the “travel bug” the rest of my family has.  I am happy at home, and we don’t get to travel often, but if my family is with me and we disconnect from life, the experience is always memorable. The forced break from our routine is always thoroughly enjoyed!

What is your role for the 2024-25 school year?  

Art Educator 

What inspired you to pursue the position and join our school/district/community? 

I have always loved art, and I wanted to bring my knowledge and experience to the WSD community. Windham was my first district teaching right out of college, and I never left!

What is one thing you’re most excited about contributing to our community? 

I love that I have had the parents of some of the students I have now! It is really special that I have that connection with the town.

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?  

I mainly love to watch my husband's band as they play around NH. I spend time in the yard/garden, knitting, listening to music, and scuba diving.

Can you share a favorite book, movie, or podcast that has impacted you? 

“Spark Joy” by Marie Kondō is a great book for those who hoard or need to declutter our lives.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Italy… My family is Italian, and I have always wanted to go to Tuscany and Florence to see the Florence College of Art! 

My husband was stationed in Italy, and we have decided to go (back) and explore the Country!

What will be your role for the 2024-25 school year?

Technology Specialist

What inspired you to pursue the position and join our school/district/community?

I enjoy educating and helping others. Now in this role I do this while combining the use of technology. Using technology to streamline processes and communication is something that inspired me to pursue this position. I look forward to working on all the exciting projects to come to our district.

What is one thing you’re most excited to contribute to our community?

I am excited to offer a friendly and familiar face when it comes to supporting our schools' technology programs to students, staff and parents. When we work together the sky's the limit.

Can you share a favorite book, movie, or podcast that has had a lasting impact on you?

"As an Adult", the Mel Robbins podcast has always been a favorite of mine. Easy listening, relatable and uplifting. 

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?

I like to spend time with my family, garden and coach Palestra's competitive gymnastics team.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I have always wanted to explore more of Canada and all its beauty. I love exploring new places and going hiking. Lake Louise is at the top of that list!