Posts by Brendon Holland
Accessibility in Advanced Placement
As is standard in schools across the country, students at MTRHS have always been assigned to Advanced Placement (AP) level courses based on teachers’ assessments of their abilities – but, what if this perceived aptitude and ability to succeed has taken an opportunity away from students that could’ve benefitted? MTRHS Director of Curriculum and Instruction…
Read MoreA Portrait of Dedication
Jana Standish, a cherished member of the Mary Lyon Foundation’s Board of Trustees, embodies the essence of dedication, compassion, and community spirit. With over three decades of service as an elementary school counselor in the Mohawk Trail Regional School District, Jana has been a beacon of support for countless students, families, staff, and community members,…
Read MoreA Lifetime of Advocacy and Support
Gordon and Marion Taylor have supported West County for longer than most of its residents have been alive, leading many initiatives and programs that benefit us all. Through a lifelong commitment to serving a community of friends and neighbors, they’ve made an impact that will continue for generations. Even before Gordon and Marion officially became…
Read MoreChampioning Education and Community
Ellen “Elle” Miller has called West County home for 40 years. When she purchased an old farmhouse at 22 years old, she set the stage for a life dedicated to service. As a former teacher and current trustee and secretary of the Mary Lyon Foundation, Elle’s story is one of sustained commitment born from a…
Read MoreA Safe and Innovative Learning Environment
When Amber Tulloch traded in her title of teacher for principal in 2021, it was supposed to be temporary, covering for the principal of Hawlemont Regional Elementary School’s (HRES) during her maternity leave. Principal Tulloch soon went from acting to interim, and ultimately to permanent principal when the job opened up later that year. Stepping…
Read MoreThe Need for Community
The early days of the COVID-19 pandemic were uncertain and challenging for all, and Cathryn LaMontagne’s experience was no exception. In the spring of 2020, Cathryn began her days by dropping off pumped milk to her newborn daughter at Baystate Hospital in Springfield before heading to Boston with her immunocompromised toddler for check-ups with his…
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