February 11, 2022
Dear SAU 90 Staff and Families,
Earlier this week during our regular scheduled school board meeting, we announced that Principal O’Connor of Hampton Academy Middle School had requested a leave of absence which had been approved. In his absence, I have been assisting at the middle school along with Principal Lannan from Centre School. Principal Saddler from Marston School joined Hampton Academy for their final trip to Pats Peak Ski Area. Special thanks to Assistant Principal, Mrs. Hughes, and the Academy staff for stepping up to the plate to ensure the smooth and orderly operations that need to occur for the benefit our students and their learning. This is just a great example of how a team comes together in support of their schools and community. Thank you all so very much.
Beginning, Monday, February 14, Mr. Kenneth Hawkins will be joining Hampton Academy as the interim principal. Mr. Hawkins is a certified administrator who has over 15 years of experience as a middle school principal. He began his educational career as a science teacher at the Portsmouth Middle School. We believe his background and experience will serve our district well. Mr. Hawkins lives in Kittery with his wife and three children. We are pleased to have his assistance during this time.
It has certainly been a pleasure to spend time at Hampton Academy this week. I marveled at all the wonderful learning that happens each day. Additionally, I was able to attend the Geography Bee on Thursday afternoon. Congratulations to all the students for their participation and hard work. Collin Zuba came in first place, followed by Paul Higgins in second place, and Sophie Mojonnier in third place. Special thanks to Mrs. Duffy for coordinating this annual tradition.
The positivity rates in Rockingham County, the Seacoast, and our state continues to decline. The positivity rate in Rockingham County is currently at 11% down from 16% last week and the Seacoast positivity rate is holding steady at 11% this week. Remember, once we reach below the 10% threshold, we would move to the yellow zone where masks would become recommended. We will continue to monitor these numbers closely. Additionally, Hampton currently has 58 active cases down from 85 active cases last week. As I write, there are 4 new cases at Centre School, 2 new cases at Marston School, and 2 new cases at Hampton Academy since last week. Clearly, our numbers are trending downward which is fantastic news for our community. Although case counts continue to be significantly high for the state, we are moving in the right direction. Remember to stay home, if you are sick and to get tested. You make the difference!
Finally, thank you for all the feedback regarding snow days and remote days. Given the varied perspectives, we are sending out a poll for you to weigh in on this decision. As it stands now, students' last day of school is Friday, June 17. Please complete this survey by next Thursday, February 17 at 8:00 PM. We will share the results in next week’s letter.
Wishing you a lovely Valentine’s Day ahead,
Warmly,
Dr. Lois B. Costa
Superintendent of SAU 90