Teachers, conservation group win annual RSU 21 School Board awards

KENNEBUNK, Maine - The RSU 21 School Board of Directors announced the recipients of its 2023-2024 awards at its meeting on Jan. 6. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to education and community service within the district.

The Civil Rights Award was presented to Jon Woodcock, a physical education teacher at Mildred L. Day School, for establishing the district's first chapter of Best Buddies, a national organization that creates opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

“Jon is perhaps the strongest advocate we have in our school for inclusion and accessibility for our students with disabilities,” said Mildred L. Day Principal Gail Keith, who nominated Woodcock for the award. "Students with disabilities have been matched with students who do not have disabilities and regular events have been established to provide the partners the opportunity to socialize together and build lasting friendships." 

The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust earned the Payson Hunter Award for its sustained commitment to environmental education. Kennebunkport Consolidated School Principal Karen Bubar nominated the group for this award.

"Their partnership has provided transformative learning experiences for students at Kennebunkport Consolidated School, fostering a deep connection to nature and environmental stewardship," said Bubar.

The Special Achievement Award was presented to Kennebunk Elementary School Administrative Assistant Mary Boswell for exceptional dedication to school safety. 

"She fiercely guards the doors to our school, allowing no one entry without proper authorization, no matter the pressure or pushback," said Richard Terwilliger-Smith, RSU 21 Operations Director, adding that "she takes the safety of our youngest students, including 138 four-year-olds from three towns, personally and works tirelessly to ensure their well-being."

The Sportsmanship Award was granted to Patrick McCarthy, a physical education teacher at Sea Road School. 

"Pat continuously teaches, promotes, and reinforces sportsmanship in all of his classes," said Kenneth Spinney, Assistant Principal at Sea Road School, noting that he "makes learning gross motor skills, teamwork, strength, agility, and ball skills more meaningful and fun."

These awards reflect RSU 21's commitment to recognizing excellence in education, safety, environmental stewardship, and inclusive programming across its school district.