FREEPORT — The Regional School Unit 5 Board of Directors has hired Sarah Simmonds of Falmouth as curriculum coordinator for schools in Freeport, Pownal and Durham.

Superintendent Shannon Welsh said Simmonds was selected from 14 applicants from across the nation.

“We are pleased to have Sarah join us,” Welsh said. “She has experience as a curriculum director in the Cape Elizabeth school district and most recently, at the Department of Education.” 

Simmonds attended the University of Maine and received her bachelor’s degree in education in 1989. She received her master’s degree in education from Harvard Graduate School of Education with a focus on educational policy and governance, school reform, program implementation and performance assessment. She is now a candidate for a doctorate program from Lesley University in Cambridge, Mass., in educational studies for professional development, educational leadership, adult learning and development and educational policy.

Simmonds most recently was a consultant on standards-based systems of education for the state Education Department. Previously, she was the facilitator of professional development and curriculum in the Cape Elizabeth School Department for nearly seven years.  

Welsh said Simmonds will focus on working on professional development grants and supporting teacher professional development. She will help teachers coordinate with those who have used Everyday Math to incorporate the program into their curriculum.

“Within the district, there are some teachers that have used Everyday Math, and some who have not,” Welsh said. “Sarah will be able to help make necessary connections between the teachers.”

Simmonds is also expected to be able to help students and teachers better prepare for the New England Common Assessment Program tests in October for reading and mathematics, and the Maine Educational Assessment test in March for science.

“There will be teams of teachers from kindergarten through 12th grade working together to improve their skills,” Welsh said. “They will work to align with the Maine Learning Results.”

Welsh said Simmonds has grant writing experience, and is a welcome addition to the district.

“She has experience with high-performing school systems, and will be able to support our efforts for the future,” Welsh said. “She will also assist in looking for efficiencies, shared resources and shared training to provide for the strongest academic program in the most economical manner.”

Amy Anderson can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or aanderson@theforecaster.net.

Copy the Story Link