|  | | Hampstead Academy's teachers are degreed, experienced professionals who believe that learning is a natural and enjoyable part of life. They consistently strive to nurture both the intelligence and character of students in an atmosphere of caring, concern, and creativity. Expectations and standards are of the highest order and the entire school family is dedicated to education. At Hampstead Academy, you will ensure the essential expertise and experience in education so vital for your child's future. |
To send an email to a staff member, click on their name in the list below. |
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 | Madeleine BassoAssociate Teacher - Grade 2 I am thrilled to be starting my career as an educator here at Hampstead Academy. With a degree in both Elementary Education and Studio Art, I am passionate about incorporating creativity into my lessons. I love to bring new and exciting elements into the classroom, and this year you will see me including exciting art projects and inventive character education lessons in the second grade curriculum. I also plan to use refreshing yoga inspired activities to clear the mind and help regain focus.
I look forward to seeing my first ever class of students learn and grow under my direction this year.
I hope to make the classroom feel safe, inviting, and exciting so that students will feel encouraged to learn and do their best.
In my spare time, you can find me painting, reading, or running in local 5ks. |
 Brooke BoncherTeacher: Art Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art
Pursuing Masters degree in Art Education
Membership in NHAEA (New Hampshire Art Educators’ Association)
My background is perhaps unique in that I am a graduate of Hampstead Academy and a product of their art program, which I have grown to appreciate in my academic career. Working at Hampstead Academy affords me the chance to give back something meaningful in return for the opportunities the school has given me. As an aspiring artist myself, I realize how challenging it can be to start with a blank sheet of paper and end up with a finished piece that you can be proud of. I believe that everyone is capable of expressing him or herself artistically and I look forward to instilling in my students the confidence they need to develop as artists.
Designing jewelry is my passion. In addition to being an artist, I consider myself an athlete. I was an NCAA Division I All American as well as a two time Olympic Trial qualifier in swimming. Some other activities I enjoy are biking, tennis, running, traveling and spending time with my family and friends. |
 Cecelia CarrollTeacher: Grades 5-8 Math BS in Mathematics
Graduate studies in Mathematics Education and Computer Education
Certified Middle and Secondary Mathematics Education
Accepted to Phil Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers’ Academy 2011
Member of National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
In my class, the students are engaged in a variety of lessons that have them focus on the learning and organization of formal math skills, preparing for national math contests, seeing the beauty of math by creating spirals that correlate with the Fibonacci sequence, investing in the Stock Market Game or creating kaleidoscopes on the computer program - Cabri Geometry. I also enjoy my role as the Coordinator of the Upper School Fall Trips to residential outdoor education sites in New England and the 8th grade class trip.
My teaching experience has also been enriched by having taught in Australia, Africa, at UNH, local GED programs, and summer school in public city schools. |
 Jean CorbinTeacher: Grade 4 / Lower School Coordinator (Grades 3-5) BA, University of New England: French
Masters, University of Massachusetts: Elementary Education
Creating a challenging environment while fostering individuality is the goal I have established for my classroom. I strive to create a comfortable learning environment where my students can feel free to try something new and take risks.
Over the past 19 years, I have taught students in kindergarten through fifth grade. This year, I am very pleased to be teaching fourth grade. Some of the topics we will explore are poetry, current events, New Hampshire History, and American History. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in French from the University of New England and a Masters degree in Elementary Education from the University of Massachusetts.
In addition to being one of the fourth grade teachers, I am also the Lower School Coordinator for grades three through five. I work with a very dedicated team of teachers who continually strive to maintain a diverse and challenging curriculum while addressing the social and developmental needs of the students they teach.
In the summer months, I can be found swimming or reading at the beach. During the winter, I enjoy cross country skiing or sitting by the fire playing Scrabble with family and friends.
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 Kimberly CoteECC Director / Teacher: Kindergarten A.S., Early Childhood Education
B.A., Human Development
NH D.O.E.—N-3 HQT-certification
NH Child Development Bureau--Early Childhood Administrator-Level 2 and Early Childhood Master Professional
Member: NAEYC, CASA, NHPTV, Arbor Day Foundation
By modeling respect, tolerance, and care; these are a few of the primary ways in which I help children learn and grow. As a teacher, my philosophy when working with students is to guide their interests and curiosity to help them grow emotionally, socially, academically and cooperatively. I love encouraging children to help themselves and to help each other. In my classroom you might observe me working with a small group of children while the rest of the students work either independently or cooperatively through engaging, intentional, play-based learning experiences provided throughout small center areas of the classroom. I believe that there is something to learn in everything that we do. I feel that these early years of developing a feeling of emotional security, independence, and being a member of a caring classroom and school community will begin to build a solid foundation of a love of learning!
Finally, I personally thrive on and seek new experiences, but some hobbies that my family enjoys are; reading, camping, hiking, drag racing, bicycle and motorcycle riding, gardening, boating, ice skating, and skiing. We love to be outdoors! I look forward to a fabulous year of excitement and challenge, both personally and as an educator.
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 Suzanne CroninTeacher: Grade 2 Bachelor of Arts: Sociology
Master of Education: Elementary Education
HQT Certified
Upon entering my classroom you will observe the students actively engaged in a wide variety of activities. In this comfortable environment, students learn it is ok to take risks and learn how to deal with the outcomes. The students learn how to love reading and build a solid understanding of math concepts. One of the most important skills I teach is how to be a good friend. The students also learn how to think independently and how to listen. As a teacher, my goal is to instill a love of learning while helping my students develop skills of good citizenship.
In my free time, I love spending time with my husband and our two young boys. I also love technology. I enjoy finding new applications for different types of technology in my classroom. |
 Jennifer DawleyLibrarian BA in Education, Fitchburg State College
Highly Qualified Teacher in NH
NH Certification in Early Childhood Education
MA Certification in Early Childhood Education
Sitting amongst the stacks of books in the library was where you would find me as a child. Today, things aren’t much different. I love reading and exploring the many books in every library I visit. My love for literature and creative nature are upon entering the library. I try conveying my love for literature and the quest to discover the wealth of information the library has to share each day with my students. My goal is to foster a curious nature in children as they discover new information around every corner. As a teacher, I make every effort to guide students and nurture an independent spirit in the library. Connecting literature with the many areas of learning is important to me as well as reaching the students differing learning styles. I strive to encourage all students to discover what I have always loved, reading!
When I am not in the library you will find me spending time with my husband and our two children. I enjoy visiting Maine, riding our ATVs, snowmobiling, boating, quilting, gardening, and of course reading. |
 Kathryn DemersAssistant Teacher: ECC Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education
NH Master Teacher Level 1 Credential from the NH Child Development Bureau
Member of the NAEYC
I am very excited to be starting my seventh year here at Hampstead Academy! I have worked with preschool children for many years and love every minute of it! A child’s early education is a very significant time for them, and teaching young children is one of the best, most deeply satisfying experiences in my life.
In my free time I enjoy reading, hiking, camping, kayaking and yoga. I am kept busy at home with my husband and three daughters as well as a houseful of pets! I am looking forward to another fun filled year working as part of our fabulous early childhood team here at Hampstead Academy! |
 Christina DiMicelliTechnology Integration Specialist / Teacher: Technology Education Grades 5-8 Masters degree in Education, Lesley University: Technology in Education
Bachelors degree (BS), UNH: Communication Disorders (minor in Psychology)
APC (Advanced Professional Certificate), Lesley University: Online Teaching
Professional Certificate, UNH: Coaching Children and Teens
Professional Certificate, UNH: Coaching Children and Teens with ADHD
ECE Credits, Saddleback College (Mission Viejo, CA): Early Childhood Education Graduate Credits, Northeastern University: Audiology Graduate Education Certificate, Johns Hopkins University: Mind, Brain, and Teaching (neuroscience and education)
Member: ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) NHSTE (New Hampshire Society for Technology in Education) Learning and the Brain Society
My own philosophy on tech integration is based on the premise that technology should be woven into the curriculum and supports the teacher without overshadowing the content. I strive to keep the tech/computer classes relevant and timely for our students (digital citizenship, media literacy, etc.). This is my dream job that combines my love of technology and enthusiasm for education. Previously, I worked in large corporate environments (on both coasts) as a PC/IT Specialist and Network Technician. This will be my fifth year on the staff at Hampstead Academy although I have served on the Advisory Board and have children at the school as students/alumni.
I have found that I am a fantastic spectator for sporting events and enjoy cheering on my own children and students as well as capturing their enthusiasm in pictures (hopefully you enjoy several of those pictures here on the website!). |
 Molly DohertyTeacher: Grade 3 BA, UNH: English/Journalism with a Minor in Education
M.Ed., UNH: Elementary Education
There is nothing more rewarding to me than to watch my students learn and grow in the classroom. As an educator I strive to enhance my students' enthusiasm and provide a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment in which students can feel comfortable to take chances, meet challenges, explore, and realize their ability to succeed.
I am a former student of Hampstead Academy and am truly happy to be back as an educator. I have a love for music, sunshine, being outdoors, and reading good books. I enjoy spending time with my husband, my friends, and my family. |
 Kimberly EsakofNurse RN- New England Baptist Hospital School of Nursing
Licensed in NH and MA
BLS certification
Critical care certified
Hi, my name is Kim and I have been the school nurse for 11 years. I have worked in many different roles throughout my nursing career: Pediatrics, Neurosurgery, Intensive care and Psychiatry. Before beginning my role here as the school nurse, I ran the student health center at Brooks School for 2-plus years. It is there that I found myself happily engaged in the field of school nursing!
When I am not in my office, you can mostly find me in my car transporting one or all of my 3 boys to their various sporting events. I love travelling with my family to different places during our school vacations and love spending time taking walks with my bedlington terrier Charlie. |
 Suzi FalconeTeacher: Grades 4 - 8 Science BS: Biology/Entomology
Masters Work: Plant Physiology/Genetics
Certification: Biotechnology
State Certification: Master Teacher High School Science
HQT Certified for High School Science
I have taught science at Hampstead Academy for 20 years. My academic background includes degrees in the natural sciences and comprises entomology, plant physiology, taxonomy, aquatic insects, stream ecology and biotechnology/genetics. My love for science and nature plays an important role in how I spend my free time. This usually includes gardening, mountain biking, bird watching or hiking with my family. The strength of our science program lies with our student directed labs and team work. Attention to detail is a must for me and I feel very strongly that developing such skills lends to a solid foundation for success in secondary science programs. |
 Nicole FerolaTeacher: Art, Lower School Master of Education, New England College: Curriculum and Instruction
Bachelor of Arts, Chester College of New England: Graphic Design and Media Arts
HQT Certified
Prior to following my dream and passion to become an art teacher, I was employed as a graphic designer for several years. My prior life experiences and background as a working artist allows me to guide my students in understanding how art can be applied in the real world. I would like to share my breadth of knowledge, creativity, and passion with young minds so that they see how art can enhance their lives.
I enjoy spending free time with my family. We love the outdoors and being near the water. I also like to create my own art and do freelance design, watch movies and snap photos (so many that my friends call me the paparazzi!). |
 Christopher FieldAssociate Teacher: Grade 5 M. Ed. In Elementary Education, UNH
B.A. in English, Minor in Education, UNH
Certified in Elementary Education
I believe that students learn best when they feel physically and emotionally comfortable in their environment, and when what they are learning has meaning or relevance for their lives. The best way to discover what is meaningful or relevant in a particular child’s life is by getting to truly know that child, which I hope to accomplish through everyday classroom interactions and observations. I also view the classroom environment as a key to accomplishing this, and as a key to establishing a safe place to learn. As I enter my first year at Hampstead Academy, my hope is that each student within my care will experience academic, social and emotional growth.
When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with my wife and three daughters, reading, playing basketball (or just about any other sport), playing guitar (not well, but it’s fun!), and generally enjoying the proximity of beaches and mountains. |
 Candace GatzoulisTeacher: Drama M.A., Emerson College: Theatre Education, May 2011
B.A., University of NH: Communication Arts, 2005
The performing arts allow students to express ideas and emotions that they may not be able to express through language alone, while also learning about themselves and the world around them. From acting and movement exercises to technical design, playwriting and directing, the students will learn to express their own opinions and nurture their own ideas while building the skills they need to be successful in their future endeavors. I will strive to create an environment where students learn to respect, accept, and embrace the differences between us. In the words of Anne Frank, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before improving the world”. As a teacher, my ultimate goal is to show students that they have the power within themselves to not only be successful in their own lives, but to help make the world a better place one step, one voice at a time.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy being the Producer of Miss NH’s Outstanding Teen Program, Directing/Choreographing musicals, singing Broadway and jazz songs, writing music, reading, going to the gym, learning ASL, and spending time with my family.
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 Cheryl GiaquintaTeacher: Preschool / Pre-Kindergarten MA and BA, Regis College, Weston
NH Certified Teacher, Preschool-3rd grade
Highly Qualified ECE Teacher
NH Teacher credential from NH Child Development Bureau
Licensed Social Worker
As an educator of young children at Hampstead academy for 11 years, I feel it is important to instill a love for learning. Our school days are filled with songs, stories, art and new experiences. As you walk into my classroom you might see the children involved in various activities such as making a city out of blocks, painting a masterpiece, baking, or working cooperatively with other children. Play is very important. It is how young children learn both socially and academically. Oh and one more thing…. we love to get messy!
In my spare time I enjoy spending it with my family, especially at the lake, boating, swimming and socializing with friends. I also love to sit down with a good book and cup of tea. OK… a cookie or chocolate are good too! |
 Silvia GrosserTeacher: Spanish, Grades K-8 Spanish Teacher, 20 years
Legal and Medical Interpreter, 23 years
Queens College, NYC: Romance Language Major, Comparative Literature Minor
¡Hola! ¿Hablamos? ¿Cantamos? ¿Bailamos en Español? ¡Sí! ¡Sí! ¡Sí!
I am a native of Argentina and love to share my love for learning languages. Teaching Spanish at Hampstead Academy has enabled me to express a creative talent I was longing to share. The students sing and dance with me, and listen to my many real life experiences as a New Language learner.
As they grow older and attend the upper grades, I like to delve into linguistics with them, and imbue an appreciation of words and their roots. We explore grammar in depth in order to understand sentence and conversation structure in another language. In my personal life I like to deal with all types of roots in my gardens. I mix it up culturally with my cooking and baking. My husband and I have brought up two multilingual children with whom we traveled for many years to put those languages to use.
¡Bienvenidos al Español! |
 Courtney HoelenLunch/Recess Coordinator & Daycare Attendant I graduated from Hampstead Academy in 2004 as a member of the Sandbox Club. I wasn’t quite sure where I would end up right out of college, but Hampstead Academy opened its arms to me again. I’m thrilled to be back and ready to have a great school year.
I have been working with children for 8 years at Southern District YMCA Camp Lincoln in Kingston, NH. As the Program Director this past summer, I worked heavily with the camp staff and directly with the campers, many of which are students here. Working with children is something I’m passionate about and enjoy very much. I am also currently pursuing my B.A. in communication.
When I’m not at Hampstead Academy or Camp Lincoln, I enjoy playing tennis, acting and singing, swimming, rock-climbing, and paddle-boarding.
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 Susan HuettnerTeacher: Upper School Language Arts / Latin Masters Degree in Education: Curriculum and Instruction ( Arts specialization) Bachelor of Arts: Secondary Education (major English, minor History) The Language Arts curriculum focuses on teaching literary classics. Classical literature is timeless. Its literary connection with each generation on social and personal levels offers the reader the opportunity to discover that, although music and styles have changed, people have not. As Scout says in Harper Lee's novel To Kill A Mockingbird, "Jem there's one kind of folks, folks." As a result, readers return to the classics to rediscover themselves through their favorite characters. As a Language Arts teacher, I feel it is my responsibility to offer that opportunity to my students.
As you may have guessed, I enjoy reading when I am not correcting. |
 Rosemary IannazziAssociate Teacher: Lower School BS MS, Plastics Engineering
I am pleased to be starting my eighth year as an Assistant Teacher at Hampstead Academy. I have always enjoyed learning and wanted my children to develop this same love for learning. That’s why after receiving a BS and MS in Plastics Engineering and witnessing the wonderful education my daughter and son have received at Hampstead Academy, I decided to pursue a degree in Elementary Education myself and am currently taking classes. I look forward to each day working with the wonderful staff and students at Hampstead Academy. |
 George KutzelmanConcierge Bachelor’s Degree, Political Science
29 years Manufacturing AT&T, most recently as Supervisor - Master Scheduling Lightwave Products
A day at school might mean shoveling, planting flowers, weeding, moving supplies, cleaning, getting mail, and a variety of other pickups and deliveries. The best days are when I can interact with the students as a substitute teacher or field trip supervisor. Of course, I love to share my fishing stories with the children as I teach my “Let’s Go Fishing“ course. The school has given me the opportunity to share my varied interests in fishing, boating, the outdoors, WWII history, aircraft, gardening, old cars, Doowop, Jazz, and Blues music with these wonderful students. |
 Lyn KutzelmanFounder/Business Office Masters in Education, Lesley University BA, Lesley University
In 1978, I made the decision to leave my seven years of teaching in public school and start what is now known as Hampstead Academy. My experiences in the classroom reinforced my belief that children learn best when lessons are engaging, challenging, meaningful and in a real life context. I was determined to provide a quality "child-centered" Kindergarten that was stimulating and developmentally based. After the first two years teaching Kindergarten, parents encouraged me to offer first grade, then second and so on..... until 1986, it became evident that a new facility to accommodate our growing needs was needed. Today, the school has gone through six major building projects culminating in the opening of our new Early Childhood and Art Center in 2005.
Hampstead Academy educates over 200 students in preschool through grade eight. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to surround myself each day with young, eager minds and creative, enthusiastic teachers. It is my goal that our graduates acquire a solid educational foundation that will help them lead happy, productive lives in careers that best highlight their varied talents and interests.
On a more personal note, I grew up in New York City and lived in Brooklyn and Queens. I attended both public and private schools through high school. I have taught all grade levels from preschool through college but have particularly enjoyed spending my time with five year olds. I suppose that is because I believe in Santa, the tooth fairy, dragons and unicorns and that people are basically good. |
 Stacy KutzelmanUpper School Coordinator / Teacher: Upper School Math / Publications Bachelors Degree, Keene State College: Elementary Education
Masters Degree, Notre Dame: Curriculum and Instruction K-12
Over the past 20 years, I have had various responsibilities at Hampstead Academy including being a classroom teacher in grades 3 through 5, editor of school-wide publications, and upper school mathematics teacher. As Upper School Coordinator, I look forward to providing the 6th-8th grade students and parents with a successful middle school experience as they prepare for entry into high school. As an upper school math teacher, I teach with the philosophy that there are many paths to solve mathematical problems and there may be many solutions to any given example. Because of this, I welcome the creativity of the adolescent mind to explore and create new ways of solving problems through class discussion, hands-on examples, and an understanding that everyone's ideas are valued and respected.
I absolutely love traveling. I have been lucky enough to have had the opportunity to explore much of Europe, Canada, the U.S. and South America. The Na Pali coast is my favorite place on Earth. But mostly, in my free time, you will find me looking for roller coasters to ride. |
 Jodie LeenTeacher: Grade 5 Bachelor of Science: Elementary Education
Masters in Education: Advanced Reading
Certified in Elementary Education and as Reading Specialist
HQT Certified
As an educator, I strive to instill in my students both motivation and enthusiasm for meeting challenges they encounter in the classroom and in life. In meeting those challenges, each student can realize his or her abilities, whether those abilities are easily seen or are hidden. While the discovery of those abilities is important to my teaching philosophy, what is even more important is the journey of self-discovery those students experience. The continuing process they must go through to succeed is central to learning, and I work together with my students to create a positive and nurturing atmosphere. A learning environment that encourages children to grow, to take risks, and to trust those around them serves as a solid foundation where each child will be able to realize his or her full potential. This is what I strive to foster in my classroom.
When not in the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, and gardening
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 Daniel MackTeacher: Music, Grades K-8 M.A., Boston University: Music Education, May 2008
Berklee College of Music, Boston, Massachusetts
B.A. Percussion Performance 1994, cum laude
B.A. Music Business Management 1994, cum laude Music Education Certification - State of New Hampshire
Additional Education
San Francisco Conservatory, Summer 2004: Orff Jazz Classroom Instruction
San Francisco State University, Fall 2003: Woodwinds Teaching Methods
I believe music is an integral component of a complete curriculum. Through musical study, one acquires the skills and discipline that are the foundation of a successful academic career. Moreover, the study of music is rewarding in and of itself, in that through music, one experiences incredible fulfillment and lifelong joy.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy hiking, biking, reading, running, cooking, painting, reading, photography, dancing, storytelling, and playing music with my wife and two young daughters. |
 Pia NortonDirector: Admissions It is a pleasure introducing prospective families to Hampstead Academy and sharing their excitement as well as welcoming them to our community.
I have enjoyed my career as Director of Admission of multiple schools for over the past 20 plus years. Responsibilities have included all aspects of admissions and recruitment management; application evaluation; financial aid; recruiting national, international and ESL students; advertising and marketing.
An achievement that I cherish is my past experiences as a Junior Olympic and Junior National Alpine Competitor. I experienced first-hand the challenges of competitive sport and training and I have shared my perspective with young athletes over the years in several athletics as a coach/instructor in Alpine Ski Race, Gymnastics, Sailing, Soccer, and Softball.
I live in my hometown in Concord, MA, with my husband and two sons who also share my passion for education and athletics. |
 Kimberly PearsonAssistant Teacher: ECC Bachelor’s degree in Special Education EEC certified Montessori trained and certified
Each child is an individual who needs a caring and stimulating environment in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. Children should have the opportunity to explore things that are interesting and meaningful where they can be motivated and enjoy the love of learning. I am very excited to be working at Hampstead Academy where I can also grow and learn.
In my spare time, I enjoy watching sports with my family and a caring neighbor. I also love hiking, reading, and gardening. |
 Susan PitmanTeacher: Grade 4 Associate in Arts Degree
Bachelor of Arts Degree
Master of Education Degree
Providing all of my students with a caring, challenging, fun, and safe learning environment in which they can attain life long skills, knowledge, and strong character is of the utmost importance to me. I am whole-heartedly devoted to inspiring my students to reach their fullest potential both academically and socially. My classroom values are based on respect and positive choices. I find children at this age are inquisitive, spontaneous, and engaging.
I am an avid Red Sox fan, enjoy spending time with my niece and nephew, and relaxing at the lake. |
 Sam RichardsHead of School
BA: University of New Hampshire
MEd: National-Louis University
Most recently, Sam was the Middle School Head at Cape Cod Academy. In addition to his duties as Middle School Head he was the Director of Technology and he taught an Algebra 1 Honors class to 7th and 8th grade students. He also chaired the Professional Development Committee and the Technology Advisory Committee. Sam worked with faculty, administrators, parents and trustees to complete the NEASCS Self Study and Accreditation in 2007-08 and a Strategic Plan in 2008-09.
Before arriving at Cape Cod Academy Sam was the Director of Technology at Lake Forest Country Day School from the time the position was created in July of 1999 until June of 2004. As the Director of Technology at LFCDS, Sam was responsible for creating the Technology Plan and for supervising all facets of technology at the school. He worked with colleagues as well as the Technology Curriculum Coordinator, the IT Manager and the Technology Committee to plan for the technology needs of students, faculty and staff at LFCDS. Sam worked at LFCDS for a total of eighteen years, and in addition to being Director of Technology, he spent time as the Upper School Head (Grades 5-9) and as a math & history teacher, coach, advisor and fifth grade homeroom teacher.
Sam’s career also includes time as a teacher, coach and administrator at the Hotchkiss School, Moses Brown School and the Rectory School. He brings a broad range of experience from his career as an independent school educator.
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 Bonnie RobertsUpper School Director of Student Affairs / Personal Development / Enrichment / Teacher: Lower School BA, Notre Dame College: Interdisciplinary Studies and Special Education
Certifications K-8 Elementary Education K-8 Special Education
HQT Elementary and Special Education
CPR Instructor
I believe children learn best by doing. The science classes that I teach are a perfect opportunity for students to explore a wide variety of science concepts using hand-on activites. Newsreel and Enrichment classes are another opportunity for me to engage students in interactive activites.
Playing golf allows me to exercise and enjoy the outdoors at the same time. |
  Kirsten SorokoTeacher: Language Arts - Grades 6-8 Masters in Education with a focus on Curriculum Design and Instruction
Bachelor of Science
Certified in NH and MA to teach elementary/middle school
I have been teaching Language Arts and Social Studies with Hampstead Academy for 5 years. I have passed my Praxis II test which means I am a "Highly Qualified Teacher". Many of my professional development trainings are on Differentiated Instruction. Differentiated Instruction is something I feel very strongly about in my teaching. Using this philosophy allows me to understand each individual student and their strengths and weaknesses. Curriculum and Instruction are a passion for me, and my students reap the benefits of it.
Another passion of mine is running. I am one of the Cross-Country coaches here at HA. I love coaching and have a wonderful time working with the students outside the classroom. Teaching and coaching are very similiar; There are always new challenges to motivate kids, facilitate their potential, and make them feel successful. |
 Christopher SousaTeacher: Social Studies Grades 6-8 BS, Business Management, College of St. Joseph
Masters, Education, Plymouth State University
NH Certifications: Social Studies 5-12, Math 5-8, & Administration K-12
I have been working in education for over twenty years, and while many things have changed over that time, my belief that students must feel appreciated and cared about before they will appreciate and care about learning, has not. I have taught a variety of ages, from middle school to college, including ten years spent as a middle school and high school administrator in Vermont and New Hampshire. I am very happy to be in the middle school classroom as I love their energy and enthusiasm.
Middle school has been my passion for most of my career, and I have served on a variety of state and regional boards. I continue to be involved in a variety of middle school organizations, including presenting at conferences, and being the president of New Hampshire's Association for Middle Level Education.
My interests and hobbies have changed much over the years, and while golf, guitar, skiing, biking, and camping still remain close to my heart, most of my free time is spent playing with my 5 year old son, Tiernan, and my seven year old daughter, Olivia. My family is rounded out by my wife Colleen and my dog Cabot. Spending time with them is a blessing, and has helped me to focus on what is truly important in my life.
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 Drew SteadmanPhysical Education / Coach Bachelor of Science, Keene State College: Physical Education
Master of Education, Lesley University: Education
NH Certification: Physical Education
As an educator I strive to promote a positive learning experience for my students. A lifelong learner myself, I believe it is important to spark learner enthusiasm and provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
In my free time I love to read, exercise, and watch any of the New England professional sports teams.
You can spot me around the gymnasium coaching cross country running, basketball, and baseball. I am also involved with many of the extracurricular activities such as the intramural programs, swim club, and ski club. Go Huskies!
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 Frances StewartTeacher: Grade 1 / Lower School Coordinator (Grades 1 & 2) BA, History
Masters, Elementary Education
Certified LiPs instructor (Lindamood Phonics Instruction)
Although I have had rewarding experiences teaching grades Kindergarten through 5, my passion lies in starting our youngest primary students on the road to literature and instilling in them a love of learning. As I enter my 18th year at Hampstead Academy, I will be teaching first grade. A visit to my classroom might reveal children searching for the giant who mysteriously left his footprints on the floor, or better yet, trying to measure that footprint using various concrete materials to get an idea of his size. I am constantly exploring new avenues to excite and motivate my young students, while providing them with a safe, nurturing environment.
In addition to my duties as classroom teacher, I serve as the Lower School Coordinator for Grades 1 & 2, working with a talented team of teachers to realize the school's Mission and to provide a program that best meets the needs of our students.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and taking long walks on the beach. |
 Jane SticklesReception / Administrative Assistant My name is Jane Stickles and I am the Administrative Assistant here at Hampstead Academy. I am the "go to" person at HA. Not only am I the first person you speak to on the phone, as well as greet you at the main entrance of the school, I am always willing to help answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout your child's school day. In addition, I am also the Hot Lunch Program coordinator. During the past nine years, it has been my pleasure to work with the l families whose children have attended Hampstead Academy.
During my spare time, I love spending time with my family, especially taking long walks with my golden retriever, Dunkin Stickles. |
 Kathleen TurcoTeacher: Physical Education / Intramural and Upper School Sports Programming Coordinator BS, State University of New York @ Brockport
Masters, State University of New York @ Albany
Certifications / Affiliations:
Project Adventure Ropes Course Certification
Adventure Based Counseling Certification
First Aid / CPR
Coaching
AAHPERD
NASPE
Grab your sneakers and let's go! I have had the privilege of teaching at Hampstead Academy for 16 years. I have taught and / or coached from nursery through the collegiate level for over 20+ years. I love to hike, ski, play tennis, bike and still run competitively in distances ranging from the 5k through the marathon. I turn my students on to new and exciting activity choices and enjoy watching their skills, talents, confidence and character evolve. Daily activity and healthy food choices is the key in each student's quest for a lifetime of fitness and good health. Our program includes extensive and unique unit and intramural offerings, Parents in PE Days, and sports team opportunities for students in grades 6-8. |
 Jessie WegnerTeacher: Chinese Masters degree in Education, University of Iowa
NH teaching certificate for Mandarin Chinese Certified Montessori teacher
I have been an educator for over twenty three years. My teaching experience spans from teaching kindergarteners to high school students. I am teaching Mandarin Chinese at Hampstead Academy for grades five through eight. The distance between the world’s cultures in the twenty first century is seemingly closer. China is no longer foreign and exotic for our students. I am delighted with my role as a language teacher who educates our young students becoming the world citizens. In my free time, I enjoy traveling to foreign places and cooking gourmet food. My favorite thing to do while I travel to a foreign country is to sample their food and visit their food markets. I believe that is where I find the true culture takes place.
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|  | Hampstead Academy delivers its mission beautifully. We like the focus on educating the whole child in a supportive environment, giving equal emphasis to all subjects in the curricula and to all the arts.
I am extremely pleased with many things, among them being the sense of community, the dedication to each student's well-being, the teachers' openness and accessibility, the level of integration within the curriculum.
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