Six new RSU 21 school board members, who all ran unopposed in the June 10 election, were formally sworn into their roles on Monday.

With changes set to take place in the district, including the search for a new superintendent, the new members said they hope to be a part of making RSU 21 the best it can be for its students.

KENNEBUNK

In Kennebunk, newcomers Brian McGrath and Arianna Efstathiou were elected, replacing Claudia Sayre and Gayle Spofford, who both chose not to seek reelection.

McGrath, who has a daughter at Middle School of the Kennebunks, said he first became involved in the school board several years ago, when there were some changes with the Kennebunk Elementary School band.

“I believe education is about more than just academics,” McGrath said.

During his time on the board, McGrath hopes to “do everything possible” to help the new superintendent be successful for the district, saying that when it comes to the education of RSU 21 children, the community is “in it together.”

“There is a lot to be proud of in our district,” McGrath said. “The students are endlessly inspiring and the work that our teachers and school staff do is nothing short of amazing.”

Efstathiou, who has two children in the district and was born and raised in Ogunquit, said she ran for the school board position because she enjoys volunteering and believes everyone has something to contribute.

As a lawyer, Efstathiou said her skills are transferable to the school board position.

“I can provide an even-keeled perspective and a sincere and effective approach to collaboration among people with different opinions on topics that are important to all of us,” she said.

KENNEBUNKPORT

In Kennebunkport, incumbent Rachel Kennedy-Smith sought reelection to a three-year seat on the board. She ran uncontested.

Kennedy-Smith is a mother to three young daughters, two of whom are currently in the district, and one whom she said is “very excited” to enter pre-kindergarten in the near future.

Kennedy-Smith said she sought reelection because she loves to be a good standing member of her community, and she feels the best way to do that is to “jump right in.”

“Wherever I’ve been in life, I’ve always looked for moments to serve,” she said.

During her three-year term, Kennedy-Smith, who serves on the board’s Finance Committee, said she wants to challenge assumptions on what things cost and what the district needs.

“I’d like to see us move forward financially in a more prudent way,” Kennedy-Smith said.

Kennebunkport resident and former school board member Bob Domine also ran unopposed.

Domine, whose two children graduated from Kennebunk High School, said their success is in large part due to the opportunities they had in the RSU 21 school system.

As a board member, Domine hopes to have a “calm, quiet, functional board that is practically boring.”

Domine also said he hopes the board can be respectful, purveyors of excellence focused on creating innovation within the district.

“We need to create innovators in staff, in administration, in kids so we go outside of the box and make it more than it used to be,” Domine said.

ARUNDEL

In Arundel, incumbents Britney Gerth and Mandy Cummings also ran unopposed.

Gerth, who is currently the board’s vice chair, will serve her first three-year term. Previously, she was elected for interim terms.

“I’m very excited about this,” Gerth said.

Gerth is a Southern Maine native and a parent to two young children. She said she ran for reelection because she wants to provide a “world-class experience” for RSU 21 students.

“They’re worth it,” she said.

During her time on the board, Gerth hopes to continue to have uncomfortable conversations that are “worth it,” work efficiently and always reserve space to listen, and treat others as they want to be treated.

Joining Gerth on the board is Mandy Cummings, who was appointed to the board in January in replacement of former board member, Kirstin Shapiro, who resigned at the end of 2024.

Cummings has been working in municipal government for over a decade, and currently serves as the finance director and assistant town manager in Ogunquit.

Cummings said she ran for school board because she wants to take her experience working in municipal government, give back to her community, and learn a little bit more.

“Serving on the school board is just about a public purpose,” Cummings said. “That, coupled with the idea that these kids are going to make this world better, is why I’m passionate about serving on this board.”