The Brunswick School Board voted 6-0 Tuesday to hire a former Lewiston schools teacher, administrator and current instruction support director as the principal of Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School.
Heather Blanchard, of Lisbon, graduated from New Hampshire’s Rivier College in 2002, and taught for 10 years, working in special education and as a first-grade teacher, before moving on to become assistant principal at Lewiston elementary schools. During that time, she completed two master’s degree courses from St. Joseph’s College and the University of Southern Maine, earning degrees in literacy and educational leadership.
“I like to be busy,” she joked.
Brunswick School Board Chairwoman Joy Prescott said Thursday the board was impressed with Blanchard’s experience in elementary education, and deep knowledge of instructional approaches, as well as her position on school culture.
“She will be a dynamic and strong leader, and a great addition to the team,” Prescott said.
As a parent of two school-aged daughters, and a former educator, Blanchard maintains the perspective of varying people actively involved in education.
“I am able to have the view of different stakeholders, which is beneficial to me, and will be for Harriet Beecher Stowe,” she said.
When asked about her interests, Blanchard said she has two vices — coffee and cross fit. “I also like to read and spend time with my family,” she said.
Superintendent Paul Perzanoski said Blanchard underwent a tough process to be selected for the position, including multiple interviews and conferences with parents and staff. He said her experience working in both special education and regular instruction is an important piece of experience for any administrator. Perzanoksi said they are in the process of negotiating the terms of her two-year contract.
Blanchard begins her tenure as principal on July 1, but will spend time at Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary before the official start date to introduce herself, Perzanoksi said.
Cathy Folan is serving as the interim principal, following the departure of former principal Jean Skorapa in August.
jlaaka@timesrecord.com
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