News release: RSU 21 announces hiring of new assistant superintendent, resignation of school board director

KENNEBUNK, Maine - RSU 21 is pleased to announce the hiring of Paul Rasmussen, Ed.D. as its next assistant superintendent. 

Rasmussen replaces Anita Bernhardt, who is retiring at the end of June. Bernhardt served three years as RSU 21’s assistant superintendent and over 40 years in education.

“This is certainly a bittersweet moment for us,” said RSU 21 Superintendent Terri Cooper, Ed.D. “While we will dearly miss Anita, we are thrilled to welcome Paul to the district. He brings a wealth of knowledge and years of experience to the position.”

Rasmussen comes to RSU 21 from Weston, Connecticut, where he was director of human resources for Weston Public Schools. He has also been an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego in San Diego, California, and Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. Rasmussen began his education career as a junior high math teacher in Kelso, Washington.

Rasmussen earned a bachelor of arts in physics and mathematics education from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington, a master of science in mathematics from Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut, and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Phoenix. 

Rasmussen will also serve as RSU 21’s Title IX officer, a role that Bernhardt previously held.

RSU 21 also announces the resignation of school board director Susan Holleran of Kennebunkport due to personal reasons. Holleran was elected to a three-year term in 2023.

“It’s been a tremendous honor to serve the community as school board director,” Holleran said in her resignation letter. “I appreciate the trust Kennebunkport voters placed in me when I was elected just over a year ago."

Media coverage:

York County Coast Star

Kennebunk Post