First Impressions of New-to-HBR High School Educators
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| Dr. Erik Borne, Assistant Principal |
I can hardly believe that we are already two months into the 2021-2022 school year! Everyone has been so warm and welcoming, so it seems like this is just my second home and has been for a while. I have been an English teacher, instructional coach, and department chair in schools of up to 4000 students, but before coming to HBR, I served in a similar-sized school--observing firsthand the power of community in a smaller learning culture. In just a month, I sense the rich community of HBR as I interact daily with students and staff, observe how our students treat one another, and witness the sportsmanship students exhibit during competitions. Parents have been incredibly hospitable, and I have appreciated frequenting the local business establishments.
I am well aware that parents entrust us with their MVPs every day, so as a parent of four, I am committed to treating those MVPs as I hope my children are treated every day they walk into their schools: with respect, care, and sensitivity. I look forward to getting to know the students of Hinckley-Big Rock High School and supporting them in every way I can. I particularly enjoy greeting them outside in the morning and recognizing familiar faces in the hallways, grateful when we can strike up a conversation together.
Considering myself quite fortunate to be a Royal and part of this exemplary team of educators, I AM READY TO GO!
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| Miss Tessa Farwell, English Teacher |
When I first got the call to come and interview at Hinckley-Big Rock High School, I was skeptical. I had never heard of the school before, and had only seen road signs in passing for the town. I had no idea what to expect. After spending my first few weeks here getting to know the faculty and students, I can say I am so happy with my choice! The students are so bright and so wonderful! The thing that solidified and confirmed that I had made the right decision was the first time we had a full class discussion. All of my students (both Seniors and Sophomores) were so accepting of one another, but they weren’t afraid to discuss and disagree! It’s so refreshing to be somewhere where the students want to talk about what they are learning! I know it can be difficult to watch certain teachers leave, and then have them replaced by someone new and unknown. The students (and everyone here in HBR) have been extremely welcoming and accepting of me into their close-knit community. I can’t wait to see what the school year brings us!
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| Mrs. Elizabeth Lopez, Spanish Teacher |
I went from period to period on the first day thoroughly enjoying the friendly high school students. After working in an elementary school for the past eleven years, it was nice to not have to repeat myself three times--SLOWLY--and model how to do the little things, like open a website or how to stand in line. I was particularly impressed with the seniors. Their maturity and eagerness to work were unexpected yet delightful surprises. After completing my first three weeks at Hinckley-Big Rock High School, I feel like Little Orphan Annie looking around Daddy Warbucks’ mansion singing, "I think I'm gonna like it here!"
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| Miss Amber Moore, PE Teacher |
The first few weeks here at Hinckley-Big Rock High School have been amazing! With this being my first year teaching, I really appreciate how supportive and helpful the staff have been. I am super grateful to be working with such wonderful staff. I also really enjoy getting to know the students. I really like how hardworking and respectful they all are. I am super excited for this school year and to be a part of such a great school and community!
Mr. Nick Sullivan, Social Studies Teacher
Before the year began, I did not know very much about HBR or the surrounding community. I was intrigued by the position as I value teaching in a small school and History is my favorite subject to teach, but beyond that I did not know much about the school or culture. After just the first week of classes, I knew that I had made the right decision in coming to HBR. The staff immediately made me feel welcome, I never felt like an outsider who was out of place. The students have blown me away not just with their respect, but with their participation, engagement and interest in learning. On curriculum night, I found out why the students are such a respectful group: they have great parents in their corner. Every day the students make me laugh, push me to be better, and reaffirm to me that I made the right decision coming to HBR. The community has made a strong first impression on me, and I look forward to the rest of the year and what we can accomplish together. Go Royals!
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| Mrs. Mary Therriault, Special Education Teacher/Case Manager |
When I thought about the kind of school district I wanted to work for, I wanted a place that felt warm and welcoming, a place that I felt could become a second home. This means having the ability to build relationships. Building strong relationships with students and families is a two-way street. That means making time to connect with each student and also opening up and sharing about yourself. Being at Hinckley-Big Rock High School, I know I made the right choice. Everyone here has been wonderful and inclusive of me as a new staff member. The students have been supportive and helpful as well. At first, I thought it was because I was a teacher and they were being respectful. Then, I realized that they are supportive of and respectful to each other as well. My favorite part of the day is when I can connect with students and share stories about ourselves. I feel blessed to be a part of this district and proud to be a part of this high school community.