Meet Alicia Thomas, Dean of Students at BCS
Meet Alicia Thomas, Dean of Students at Belgrade Central School!
What was your greatest memory from last school year?
I don’t have one favorite memory from last year; I have 21 of them. The 21 students that I had in fourth grade last year hold a special place in my heart. They were hard-working, creative, thoughtful, problem-solvers, and hilariously funny. It was a privilege to be their teacher.
What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming school year?
There are so many things to look forward to! Right now, I am most looking forward to the first day of school and the arrival of students in the hallways of BCS. There is nothing better than the first day of school when students flood the hallways! I cannot think of a day filled with more excitement, anticipation, and bravery than the first day of school. Children will bravely walk into new classrooms (and sometimes new schools), and excited teachers, educational technicians, support staff, and administrators will happily welcome them. There are so many beautiful acts of kindness and support seen and felt in elementary schools on the first day of school. It’s the kick-off to another year of learning and truly something to be celebrated!
What’s your favorite thing to do over the summer?
Like many Mainers, we love to spend time at camp. We went often when I was little, and it holds a lot of special memories. There is nothing better than swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, campfires (s’mores included), hammock time, and family time!
If you weren’t involved in the profession of education, what would we find you doing?
Without a doubt, if I wasn’t in education, I would want to be an architect. I have always loved interesting buildings, barns, and structures. When we travel, I’m definitely the tourist gawking at all of the interesting buildings and reading about their history. Currently, my interest in architecture is explored with my children and Legos.
What is your favorite book to share with students and why?
“Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is an incredible book to share with upper elementary students about compassion, perseverance, honesty, and friendship. The main character, Ally, is brilliant, artistic, and kind. Secretly, she struggles with reading and goes to great lengths to keep it a secret – even from her teachers! It provides a springboard for countless valuable classroom conversations about empathy, kindness, differences, and acceptance.
