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Staff Q & A

Staff Q & A
Posted on 10/31/2025

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 2025-26 school year?

I am the Lead Nutrition Services Assistant at Windham Middle School.

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

As my children got older but were still in school, I started as a substitute with Nutrition Services. I enjoyed the work, and when a position opened at Windham Middle, I went for it. It is the perfect job for parents with school-age children! I enjoy seeing and hearing the students' reactions - good or bad - to the lunches we serve; they can be very expressive! And I like learning about and trying new ideas to get students interested in school lunch and breakfast.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families? 

My team and I love seeing the students and interacting with them every day. We really appreciate any feedback, good or bad, are open to suggestions, and are here to answer any questions. And don't forget you can rate the lunches on Nutrislice!

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

I love being outdoors, especially with my husband, family, friends, and dogs - horseback riding, hiking, camping, kayaking, gardening, snowshoeing - anything outdoors!


Fothergill_Staff QA picture

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I teach 5/6 grade general music classes, 5th grade band and orchestra classes, direct the 5/6 grade Choir, and serve as Team Leader for the Unified Arts Team.

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

Prior to my current position, I taught general music for grades 1-6 and directed chorus and musicals.  Eventually, as our school population grew, I was teaching general music classes at two different schools plus directing chorus.  Soon, I was faced with the decision to either continue teaching general music classes or challenge myself to grow as a music educator.  I made my decision based on the fact that I value continuous learning and growth and strive to model that for my students.  This mindset has led me to my current position at WCS, where I teach upper elementary band and orchestra classes in addition to directing the 5/6 grade choir and teaching general music.  


I am continuously inspired by watching my students get excited about performing in front of their peers and large audiences.  This is something many of today's adults would have struggled with at their age.  However, I see today's students approach performance with confidence, enthusiasm, and far less hesitation than in years past.  Their effort, dedication, resilience, and ability to work through challenges as they prepare for their performances inspire me every day!


What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families? 

It is important for students to be involved in music because it not only strengthens cognitive skills, builds discipline, and inspires creativity, but also gives students a sense that they belong to something and that they are a valuable member of a group.  Music builds confidence through performance, teaches them to persevere, and provides them with a healthy outlet for expressing emotion.  In music classes, students learn to collaborate and know they are each an important part of the classroom community.  


I would like all students and families to know that they can always feel comfortable asking for extra help on an instrument, switching to a different instrument, or communicating openly about any new interests or concerns.  I am here to support your musical journey!


What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

I sang and played piano in a wedding band for many years, and I love singing opera arias.  

And a family fun fact-my uncle was a songwriter and married Dolly Parton's sister!


Malila Staff photo with WSD logo

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?

GBS Assistant Principal

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

The 2025-26 school year marks my return to the Windham School District, as I was an assistant principal at Windham High School from 2015 to 2020. During the five years I was away from Windham, I served in another district in a variety of administrative roles, and, unfortunately, the responsibilities of those positions kept me from working with students and staff on a daily basis. When I decided last spring to seek an assistant principal position, I noticed the job posting for an assistant principal at the Golden Brook School, which I initially did not consider, as my past experience had been in grades 5-12. However, I was eager to return to Windham, and after reaching out to district staff and administrators with whom I maintained contact with since leaving in 2020, I became intrigued by elementary school and this new challenge. Now, after 6 months at GBS, I realize that I not only love being an assistant principal, but I also really enjoy working with elementary school students and staff. It is my daily interactions with our students, staff, and families that inspire me each day.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families? 

In my short time at GBS, I have seen that the staff truly care about our students. While we strive to make school welcoming and fun, it can be challenging and difficult at times, but please know that we are here for you. If you are having trouble or need support, please let us know because we care about every student. 

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

When I am not at school, I love working on projects around the house, including landscaping and renovations. I also enjoy camping and hanging out with our two cats.


 

diane

 

What is your role for the 25-26 school year?

My current role in the district has been the same for the last 6 years, serving as Registrar for Grades K-12.  Prior to that, I began as an Assistant at Windham Middle School, then moved to the high school the year it first opened, working in the Guidance Office.   It was an exciting time to be a part of our high school's opening.  My current role serving Grades K-12 keeps me very busy because it includes managing all student enrollments, handling most of our district's state reporting to the DOE, and overseeing our high school grades for transcript purposes. 

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I’ve lived in Windham for about 26 years now and was drawn to our school district when my own girls were young, as I thought it would be a good fit for my family.  Originally, I began my working career in the private sector at a large Boston law firm.  What I learned early on was that there is a vast difference between the private sector and public education.  In public education, you serve the students and taxpayers first and foremost.  I like to think I do a good job at that, as I try to answer all parents’ questions as quickly and clearly as possible, understanding what it is like from a parent’s perspective.  

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families?

The advice I have for students is to know that EVERYONE, including myself, makes mistakes, but don’t let that define who you are because in the end, it truly will all work out. It always does.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 


One interesting “family tree fact” is that my grandfather once played baseball with Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig at a charity event in 1928.  My grandfather was quite the baseball player, I have been told.  For me, in addition to being a new “nana”, a role that brings me immense joy, I also like to grow a variety of vegetables in the summer, and I try my hand at making preserves.


 

latvis

 

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year? 

I am a Mathematics Teacher at Windham High School. I currently teach Geometry, Honors Geometry, and AP Calculus BC. I am also the Traveling Math Team Coach (and the team is having an AMAZING season this year so far!)

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

I have always loved mathematics since I was very young. Both my parents are former educators, so I have also always enjoyed learning. Initially, I went to college and earned a BS in Chemical Engineering, but after graduating and getting a job in the field, I decided I enjoyed the topics of mathematics and chemistry, but wasn't so fond of the harsh chemicals that were part of the job. I went back to college and earned a certificate in mathematics teaching at night and on the weekends. After I was hired to teach mathematics at Winnacunnet High School 30 years ago, I went on to earn my Master's in Mathematics Teaching at UNH. Teaching wasn't my initial goal for a career, as both my parents always wanted me to go on to bigger and 'brighter' things with my career, but my mother always told me she knew after my first few years as an undergraduate in engineering that I was going to eventually be a teacher (she just let me find my own path there). After 15 years of teaching and coaching the math team at Winnacunnet, I saw an opening in mathematics teaching at Windham High School, and 15 years ago, I made the move. I enjoy teaching at Windham High School; the students and staff are highly dedicated as well as super hardworking. Go Jaguars!

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families? 

I guess my path to being a teacher would be some advice that I would like to share. Initially, you might think you are interested in pursuing one direction for a career, but never stop learning and always keep growing. Eventually, you will find what you were meant to do in life. Sometimes the path might take some twists and turns, but keep moving, and eventually things will work out.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

As my students and colleagues know, I am a superfan of all things Disney! I might be finally making it out to Disneyland in California this upcoming summer. I always have the best times when I am at Disney World in Florida, and I look forward to traveling there again soon.

 

Johnson Staff Q and A staff photo with WMS logo

 

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I am the Mental Health Counselor at the Middle School

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

I was initially drawn to this position because I was excited about the opportunity to work closely with students on a daily basis. Before joining the middle school, I worked in a community mental health setting, where I saw students only once a week. I knew I wanted a role that allowed me to support them in a more in-depth and consistent way. Being part of their day-to-day experience allows me to build meaningful connections and help them develop the skills and strategies that promote success in the classroom and beyond.

What continues to inspire me is the privilege of working with middle school students during such a pivotal stage of their development. Each day brings something new, and it is incredibly rewarding to watch students grow—from incoming seventh graders to confident learners ready to transition to high school. The relationships I build with students and the progress I witness in their academic, social, and emotional growth truly motivate me in my work.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families? 

The best advice I can offer to middle school students and their families is to embrace the growth that naturally happens during these years. Middle school goes by quickly, and it brings significant social, emotional, and academic changes. Some days will feel challenging, while others will be incredibly rewarding as you see progress and success unfold. This is an important time to build foundational skills, discover personal strengths, and learn how to persevere when things become difficult. Allowing space for mistakes, growth, and resilience helps set students up for confidence and success in the years ahead.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

A fun fact about me is that I love camping, hiking, and exploring every chance I get! 

Conroy staff qA

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year? 

This is my first year as the WCS Secretary and I am loving it!

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I was initially drawn to the position as a way to push me out of my comfort zone. I was looking forward to taking on a new challenge and embracing a learning opportunity. The students and staff continue to inspire me each and every day! The best part of my day is interacting with the students. 

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families?

 I would like to take the opportunity to thank the students and their families for their kindness and patience. You make my job easy and I enjoy connecting with each of you on a daily basis. 

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

Music and Movement make me happy! I especially love dance, yoga and being out in nature.

cove

 

What is your current role for the 2025/2026 school year?

I am a first grade teacher


What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

My Nana was a 6th grade teacher, and growing up, I always wanted to be a teacher and work with kids. Making connections with my students and their families is what continues to inspire me.  I love watching them grow and know that I had a small part in helping them become the people that they are.


What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families?

The days are long, but the years are short.  Find joy every day and spend time with people who appreciate you and make you laugh.


What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself?

I have been a step-mom for 25 years and am a twin Grammy!


 

nieves

 

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?
I’m the district's School Resource Officer (SRO). My role is to help keep our schools safe while building positive relationships with students and staff. I also work with each building on safety training and serve as a resource for anything related to school security or student well-being.

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?
I was drawn to the SRO role because it gives me the chance to make a difference in a setting that goes beyond typical police work. Being able to connect with students, earn their trust, and support them through challenges is what really motivates me. Every day is different, and I enjoy being part of a team that helps create a safe, welcoming environment for everyone.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year?
Take each day as a new opportunity. Whether it’s learning something new, meeting someone different, or overcoming a challenge, it really does all add up. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, get involved, and make the most of the year. Please remember you’ve got a whole community here to support you.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself?
I have a five-year-old black lab named Rex, and I love taking him out to big fields to play catch with his frisbee. We call him Rex because sometimes he wreaks havoc like a T. rex!

 

Staff QA graphic_Hartmann

 

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?  

I am a high school math teacher, cross-country coach, and co-advisor to the math honor society and the math league. 

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

I had been teaching for 11 years before Windham High School opened.  I had recently moved to the community just as the high school was opening.  I was excited about the opportunity to help shape the culture, programs, and traditions of a brand new school.  What continues to inspire me are the students.  Their dedication, resilience, and strong work ethic impress me every day. Watching them push themselves to grow and succeed motivates me to bring my best to the classroom and to keep finding ways to support their learning and development.  

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year?

I would love for students and families to embrace the journey ahead with a positive attitude.  Remember, success is not about the grades - it's about effort, perseverance, and being willing to take risks and learn from challenges.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself?  

Fun fact - I have taught in 3 different states and I've run 9 marathons!


gerstein

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year? 

I am the Secretary at Windham Middle School. 

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I was looking to start working full-time after being a SAHM/working part-time, and this fit perfectly. My daughter was a student here when I started, so working the same schedule as her made it very easy to slide back into the workforce. I had run the book fair the year before, had great interactions with the staff and students, and thought it was a good place to work. What inspires me every day is the kids. I love that every day is different, you never know what is going to happen, and it is great to watch them test their wings while they are here. 

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

Middle School is a time of growth and change; embrace every minute of it! 

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

I have hiked a dormant volcano, visited an active volcano, and swam with manta rays! 

Chopelas image with WCS Logo

 

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I am a 6th-grade math teacher.

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

I have always known I wanted to become a teacher, though I was initially unsure which age group I wanted to work with. During one of my practicums, I was placed in a 6th-grade classroom, and I immediately connected with the students and the curriculum. I remained in that classroom for the rest of the year, and it became clear to me that 6th grade was the right fit for my teaching career.

My journey with math has been a personal one. As a student, I struggled with the subject and often found it challenging. However, during college, I had an exceptional math professor who helped me reframe my struggles as a strength. They encouraged me to use my experiences to better support students who may also find math difficult. Through that perspective, I not only developed a love for teaching math but also for doing math itself. I now strive to help students build a more positive and confident relationship with the subject.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

The advice I would offer to both students and families is this: you are capable of doing hard things. Challenges are a natural part of learning, and with persistence, a positive mindset, and by actively using the resources available to you, success is always within reach.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

A fun fact about me is that I am getting married next June!


 

Dinga

What will be your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I am a 4th grade teacher at GBS


What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

What initially drew me to my current position was my experience as a long-term substitute in 4th grade. I love the curriculum we teach as well as the team connection we have created! What continues to inspire me every day is seeing those light bulb moments in my students. I strive to make sure every student knows they can be successful in their own way. Not every student has the same path to success, but I want to help each of them get there in any way I can.


What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

As we start the new year, I want to remind students and families to believe in their own path. Every step forward counts, even if it looks different from others. Hold yourself accountable, work hard, don't be afraid to ask for help and be kind to yourself! 


What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

One fun fact about myself is I love to explore the outdoors! I am trying to travel to all 63 US National Parks! So far I have been to 11. Only 52 more to go! 


 

amir photo

 

What will be your role for the 2025-26 school year?

 

I’ll continue serving as the Systems Administrator for the Windham School District, overseeing the deployment, management, and support of Apple devices across our schools. 

 

My focus this year is on streamlining workflows and ensuring our technology runs smoothly so teachers and students can focus on learning, not troubleshooting.

 

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

 

I’ve always been fascinated by how Apple technology can simplify complex systems and empower people to do their best work. What continues to inspire me is seeing how the right tools can make a real difference, whether it’s helping a teacher integrate iPads into the classroom or supporting a student who’s just discovering what technology can help them create.

 

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

 

Embrace curiosity! Technology is constantly evolving, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn something new. Don’t be afraid to explore, ask questions, and make mistakes; it’s all part of growth.

 

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

 

Believe it or not, I’m also a pitmaster! I love cooking in general, but there’s something special about the art of slow-cooked meats and sharing those meals with friends and family. It takes time and patience, but I always say barbecue is a true labor of love.


Curry Headshot

What will your role be for the 2025–26 school year?

I will be teaching 8th-grade mathematics, coaching volleyball and golf, and serving as the Ski Club coordinator. In past years, I have also coached baseball and basketball, experiences that continue to shape my approach to coaching and mentoring students.

What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I have always loved helping others realize what they are capable of. Early in my career, I had the privilege of learning from some incredible mentors, especially Mrs. Doughty, who is now at the high school, who taught me how to guide students through challenges and instill in them the importance of perseverance. I am also fortunate to have the support of my principal, Mrs. Morrow, and assistant principal, Mr. Gratton, who continually encourage me to grow as an educator and leader. That combination of mentorship and support continues to inspire my work every day.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year?

Take risks, welcome constructive feedback, and never be afraid to ask for help. Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones and learn from the process.

What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself?

Sports are a big part of my life. I coached a baseball team that won three championships in a row and a volleyball team that has won back-to-back championships the past two years.

 

budette image with logo

 

What will be your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I serve as the Library Media Specialist and grade 5 STEAM Teacher at Center School.


What initially drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I have always enjoyed working with information, with students, and with hands-on science and engineering activities. When a library position opened up in Windham 19 years ago, I was excited to return to my hometown to work where education and literacy are well-supported. I am inspired by seeing readers get excited about good books, as well as seeing students become independent thinkers and users of information. I also enjoy seeing students’ creativity expressed through their STEAM projects.


What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

If you’re having trouble finding reading material that you enjoy, I suggest trying out a variety of formats, genres, and authors. Maybe you’ll prefer audiobooks or ebooks (found on our Sora platform or Nesmith Library’s Libby), nonfiction, graphic novels, or magazines. I encourage parents to help their children in the selection process, finding books that match their values and interests. Links to our library catalog, Sora, and research databases can be found at my Schoology page. We have a multitude of great reading choices!


What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

I played trumpet in the Center School band as a student, but now I prefer to play the guitar or piano.


 

Staff QA graphic_Pellerin

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year? 

I am the Digital Literacy Teacher at Golden Brook School.


What aspects of this new role are you most looking forward to? 

What I am most excited about is working with students of all ages and utilizing AI to enhance my teaching. 


What originally drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work? 

I have always had a passion for technology. I love problem-solving and troubleshooting as well as learning all the new and exciting things technology has to offer. This year, AI has become a significant initiative for the district, and I am excited to be part of the team helping students and staff navigate this new adventure. 


What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year? 

Have fun, try new things, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Life is all about making mistakes and learning from them.  


What is one interesting or fun fact about yourself? 

When I was in college, I studied abroad in Australia and was almost eaten by a tiger shark.


Phil Image

What is your role for the 2025-26 school year?

I recently joined the Windham School District as the newly appointed School Marshal. My primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and security of the school campus, in partnership with the School Resource Officers and the district. Mr. O'Loughlin is a retired Windham police officer and has previously served as a School Resource Officer for the district.

What aspects of this new role are you most looking forward to?

I look forward to working alongside staff, students, and families to promote a secure and caring school community.

What originally drew you to your current position, and what continues to inspire you in your work?

I enjoyed being the School Resource Officer so much that when I got the chance to return to the District as a School Marshal, I jumped at the opportunity. I really enjoyed collaborating with the Windham team to help 

build a safe and welcoming environment where students can focus on learning.

What message or advice would you like to share with students and their families as they begin the new year?

I'm excited to be back in the schools and collaborating with this wonderful community! I look forward to building and deepening connections with students, faculty, and families.