Author: vimes

Meet Alicia Thomas, Dean of Students at Belgrade Central School
August 19, 2025
Meet Alicia Thomas, Dean of Students at Belgrade Central School!

Greatest Memory from a Previous School Year
When reflecting on her favorite memory from a year in education, Ms. Thomas shared that she doesn’t have just one—she has 21. Each of the 21 fourth-grade students she taught two years ago holds a special place in her heart. Thomas described them as hard-working, creative, thoughtful problem-solvers, and hilariously funny. She considers it a true privilege to have been their teacher.

Looking Forward to the Upcoming School Year
As the new year begins, Thomas is especially looking forward to the first day of school. She says there is nothing quite like the moment when students flood the hallways of Belgrade Central School—bringing with them excitement, anticipation, and bravery. Whether entering a new classroom or a new school, students are warmly welcomed by teachers, educational technicians, support staff, and administrators. Ms. Thomas treasures the many acts of kindness and support that are seen and felt on that first day, describing it as the joyful kickoff to another year of learning—a day worth celebrating.

Summer Favorites
During the summer, Ms. Thomas enjoys spending time at camp with her family, a tradition that holds many special memories from her own childhood. She loves swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, and relaxing in a hammock by the water. Campfires—complete with s’mores—are a favorite as well, making camp a place filled with both fun and family time.

If Not in Education…
If she weren’t in the field of education, Thomas shared that she would likely be an architect. She has always been fascinated by unique buildings, barns, and structures, and when traveling, she is often the one admiring architecture and reading about its history. At home, she explores this interest alongside her children through creative Lego building.

Favorite Book to Share with Students
One of Ms. Thomas’s favorite books to share with students is Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt. She loves this story for its themes of compassion, perseverance, honesty, and friendship. The main character, Ally, is brilliant, artistic, and kind but secretly struggles with reading and goes to great lengths to keep it hidden—even from her teachers. Thomas explains that the story opens the door to meaningful classroom conversations about empathy, kindness, differences, and acceptance, making it a powerful and memorable read for upper elementary students. #WeAreRSU18
Meet Dillon Clark, Principal of Belgrade Central School
August 19, 2025
Meet Dillon Clark, Principal of Belgrade Central School!

Personal Motivation
When asked about his background, Mr. Clark shared that he began his career as a 4th grade teacher and varsity soccer coach. After a couple of years, he transitioned to teaching middle school social studies, where he also served as athletic director. While Clark loved his time in the classroom, his desire to create a school environment where staff felt heard and supported—and to build a culture where people genuinely wanted to come to work—led him into administration. He spent six years as the assistant principal at Messalonskee Middle School and is now in his third year as Principal at Belgrade Central School. Clark proudly notes that his nine years in RSU 18 have been the best of his career.

What He Enjoys Most About Education
For Mr. Clark, the most rewarding part of working in education is the people—students and staff alike. He treasures the relationships built within the school community and values their lasting impact. While he enjoys summer, Clark admits that he misses the students and staff tremendously, and it is these connections that make him excited to come to work each day.

Leadership Style and Vision
When describing his leadership style, Clark emphasizes the importance of listening, being present, and ensuring that staff have the tools they need to provide students with the best education and experiences possible. He believes no leader should think they know everything, so he strives to learn from those around him and to ask thoughtful questions of the experts in his building. Clark values continuous learning, rigorous instruction, and—above all—remembers that education is about children. For him, having fun and building strong relationships are not just important; they are the lasting memories students carry with them long after leaving the classroom.

A Fun Fact
Students and families may be surprised to learn that Mr. Clark plays the guitar. While he admits he’s not an expert, he hopes to bring it out a few times during the school year to share some fun musical moments with the Belgrade Central community.

Message for the School Year
As a new school year begins, Mr. Clark offers this reminder to students and families: “Anyone who has never made a mistake, has never tried something new.” – Albert Einstein. #WeAreRSU18
Salmon Release Project
June 11, 2025
Belgrade Central School students took part in a hands-on science experience by raising Atlantic Salmon as part of a conservation initiative. This winter, the school received 200 salmon eggs at the eyed stage. Over time, they developed into alevin and eventually fry, ready for release. On May 14, third, fourth, and fifth graders traveled with Mr. Hatt and Ms. Hanauer-Milne to Bond Brook in Augusta for the release. Under the guidance of Fish Friends mentor and Seven Lakes Alliance board member Pete Kallin, students practiced scientific observation and data recording before releasing 192 surviving salmon into the wild. The students were thrilled to play a part in protecting an endangered species, and they look forward to the salmon’s hopeful return in years to come. #WeAreRSU18
Drumming Cultural Experience
June 3, 2025
Mr. Michael Wingfield joined Belgrade Central School to share aspects of his culture with the students through music. Each 4th and 5th grade student participated in multiple sessions of African drumming, culminating in a final assembly where they showcased their new skills in a performance for the entire school. During the assembly, Mr. Wingfield encouraged broad participation, getting many students involved in the drumming experience. #WeAreRSU18
Puppet Making + Lava Lamps
May 21, 2025
In art class, third-grade students at Belgrade Central put their creativity and performance skills to the test under the guidance of Mrs. Wrenn. Each student built a puppet from start to finish, then used their creations to perform original puppet shows. The hard work and dedication paid off, resulting in impressive final projects. Kudos to Mrs. Wrenn and BCS’s talented third-grade artists!

Mrs. Brewer’s class created lava lamps as part of a science lesson on density and chemical reactions. The hands-on activity was not only educational but also nostalgic and fun, reminding many of the iconic lava lamps from the 1990s. It served as a memorable way to reinforce science concepts. #WeAreRSU18
Student Council Fun Night
May 19, 2025
The BCS Student Council, with the support of Mrs. Browning and Mrs. Randall, hosted a fun-filled evening for third through fifth graders. Students danced, played basketball, built with Legos, made bracelets, received temporary tattoos, and enjoyed yard games. A DJ kept the energy high throughout the night, while pizza and treats kept everyone fueled. The event ended with a joyful conga line that danced its way out the door—a perfect conclusion to a memorable night of fun and friendship. #WeAreRSU18
Gardening at BCS
May 16, 2025
From the plants growing in the Student Support space to the raised beds tended by second grade, gardening is thriving at Belgrade Central. Many students are developing a green thumb, thanks in large part to Mr. Hatt’s leadership. His latest student-led project aims to grow grape vines that could be shared with families at the end of the school year—a truly ambitious and meaningful initiative! #WeAreRSU18
Engaging Science
May 13, 2025
Mrs. Campbell’s fifth-grade class at Belgrade Central participated in a lively science experiment, sparking curiosity and excitement as students explored scientific concepts through hands-on learning. #WeAreRSU18 #BCSdragons
Enjoying Some Sunshine
May 9, 2025
At Belgrade Central, sunny days bring a special treat: outdoor seating at the back entrance. Students and staff enjoy the opportunity to eat, learn, and relax in the fresh air and sunshine, making the most of beautiful weather. #WeAreRSU18
March Madness Concludes
May 6, 2025
The 2025 nonfiction picture book winner at Belgrade Central School has been announced: The Wolf Effect! The week began with a school-wide assembly led by the second grade, who opened the event with the Pledge of Allegiance. The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of the winning title. Thanks to the incredible coordination by Mrs. Daniels—who organized all the books and schedules and printed a giant image of the winner—students erupted in cheers (and even a few howls) as the title was revealed. Mrs. Thomas contacted the author, who sent a special video message to BCS, thanking students for their votes and sharing news about her upcoming projects. It was a fantastic event that celebrated reading and school spirit. #WeAreRSU18

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