ADMINISTRATION
Heather King
Head of School
Heather King has a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in English and has completed Doctoral level courses in Educational Leadership. Heather is currently the Head of School at Maine Arts Academy, having a passion for the arts. Heather has held several teaching roles that span from elementary grades, high school through college level. Her recent positions include dean of students, high school teacher, team Leader of online faculty at Southern New Hampshire University, English and Liberal Arts adjunct faculty at Southern New Hampshire University and adjunct faculty of English at Allegany College of Maryland and Purdue University. Heather has been an education keynote guest speaker for the state prison system in Pennsylvania, presented at writing workshops throughout the Northeast, and is a published author of Peace of Trash. Heather lives in Central Maine with her husband and her three grown children. She enjoys hiking, reading, writing, attending arts events, and spending time with her family. hking@maineartsacademy.org
James Giusti
Principal
Jim, his wife Leah, and their two cats (Lucy and Macaroon) are recent arrivals to Maine, making the state their forever home after growing up near Boston. They are both avid proponents of the arts, particularly music. Jim played in the percussion ensemble from middle school through high school, including marching band and concert band. Meanwhile, Leah was an excellent singer participating in the high school Madrigal group among others. Jim was also a member of the drama club and played the lead role in Macbeth, which was thankfully performed well before cell phones were ubiquitous. Finally, when possible, Jim and Leah love to travel. Their favorite places are Ireland, Norway and Italy, where they got married. Jim holds a Bachelors degree in mathematics and is working towards his masters degree. jgiusti@maineartsacademy.org
Stacey Veilleux
Dean of Students
Department of English
Stacey Veilleux received her Bachelor of Arts in English and World Literature from New England College in Henniker, New Hampshire. It took a few years for her to discover her love of teaching but she eventually found it at MeAA. Stacey has been a part of the MeAA family since the school opened, her daughter being amongst the first group of students to attend in its inaugural year. Two years later, she became a member of the staff and has seen her role grow and change each year. She currently teaches Writing Lab and Transition Humanities in addition to being a part of the Special Ed team. Besides teaching, her interests include reading, writing, exploring nature, traveling, live music, and spending time with friends and family. Her favorite travel destination is going to see her daughter, Maya, who is attending university in London, England. sveilleux@maineartsacademy.org
FACULTY & STAFF
Teresa Albert
Department of Transportation
Teresa comes to us as a new bus driver this year and is very excited to join Maine Arts Academy. During the school year, you may even see her substituting at MeAA. In her downtime, Teresa can be found enjoying the great outdoors. She spends her summers at Duck Puddle Campground in Nobleboro. She enjoys kayaking, hiking, four-wheeling, and just relaxing by the fire, taking in all that nature and the great state of Maine have to offer. She looks forward to seeing where her new adventure at MeAA takes her. talbert@maineartsacademy.org
Casey Beaudoin
Department of Mathematics
Casey lives with her husband, Rich, and dog, Piggy, in Augusta. They have two adult children with whom they love to spend time. With a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and a Master’s in Education from the University of New England, Casey brings over 14 years of experience as an educator. She began her career as a Montessori teacher to enable her children to attend Damariscotta Montessori school through 8th grade. Additionally, she has spent nearly a decade as a bike mechanic at local bike shops, which helped her to assist with The Art of Biking Program at Maine Arts Academy this past summer and assisting with the mountain bike club and team. She is passionate about bicycling and outdoor education. Adding to her experience in outdoor education, Casey earned her registered Maine Guide certification to further her professional development and ability. Casey is extremely excited to help guide Maine Arts Academy student’s learning both, in and out of the classroom. cbeaudoin@maineartsacademy.org
Andrew Bellegarde
Department of Humanities
Mr. Bellegarde was born and raised in Maine. He is a historian and community advocate who lives in Winthrop with his wife and three daughters. He served in the Winthrop Fire Department and is a U.S. veteran, having completed ten years in the Army. His military experience helps him instill discipline, a sense of service, and a passion for civic engagement in both his teaching and community work. Beyond the classroom, Mr. Bellegarde enjoys forging, welding, and casting in his home forge. He is also a retro gaming enthusiast and streamer. Additionally, he lived in Italy for three years. abellegarde@maineartsacademy.org
Acadia Chartier
Academic Advising
Acadia Chartier is responsible for managing the guidance office. Her keen eye for detail comes in handy when handling transcripts and schedules. With four years at MeAA, she takes joy in seeing the school flourish and students reach their goals. During her free time, she loves going to concerts, capturing memories through photography, and exploring the outdoors on hikes. achartier@maineartsacademy.org
Kim Clark
Department of Student Services
Ms. Clark began her college education in Culinary Arts at Eastern Maine Community College before earning a Business degree from Husson University. She went on to work in the Waterville area as an Educational Technician in Culinary Arts and the Life Skills program for a combined total of 15 years. Continuing her education, she earned a Master’s degree in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Ms. Clark then taught Life Skills virtually for six years, but ultimately found she missed working with students in person. She now lives in Clinton with her two dogs, Jake and Ollie. She is the proud mother of two grown daughters, grandmother to four grandsons, and has four “grand pups.” In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family or relaxing with a good movie at home or at the theater. Ms. Clark is very excited to be joining Student Services at Maine Arts Academy. kclark@maineartsacademy.org
Bridget Convey
Department of Music
A musician who enjoys performing music of our time, pianist Bridget Convey has found much fulfillment in collaborating with living composers. She has been fortunate to work with composers such as Morton Subotnick, Mel Powell, James Tenney, Elliott Schwartz, and many others. As a soloist and ensemble musician, Bridget has been heard at venues such as Lincoln Center (NYC); Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (Los Angeles, CA); Ojai Music Festival (CA); Maybeck Performing Arts Studio (Berkeley, CA); Percussive Arts Society International Convention (Columbus, OH); among many others. She received her Diploma from Mannes College of Music, NYC (Pre-college Division); BFA from State University of New York at Purchase; and MFA from the California Institute of the Arts. Bridget can be heard on Navona, Cuneiform, Independent and Nataraja labels. She serves as adjunct piano faculty at Bates College and is excited for her new role at Maine Arts Academy. “…the piano shining like a star, without dictating a thing…Convey realized the part perfectly.” –Christopher Hyde, Maine Classical Beat “…words of praise are insufficient to acknowledge what Ms. Convey did on this program.” – Dr. Morton Gold, Journal Tribune bconvey@maineartsacademy.org
Kevin Cullen has had three three careers since his graduation from college in 1984 from the University of Nevada, Reno. After graduation, Kevin served as an engineer on a nuclear submarine in the US Navy. After his time in the Navy, Kevin worked as a PGA golf professional, mainly in California. During his many years as a golf professional Kevin won 39 professional tournaments. Recently Kevin was honored with Life Membership Status in the PGA. When Kevin moved with his family to Maine in 2002 he worked as a golf pro in the summer and began teaching full time during the school year. After a cancer diagnosis in 2004, Kevin stopped working as a golf professional and was exclusively a teacher and coach. In his 21 years as a teacher he has taught, Literature, US and World History, Geography, Civics, Psychology and Economics. In 2011 Kevin was named as the Maine US History and Civics teacher of the year by the Presidential Academy of History and Civics. In 2012 Kevin received his Masters Degree in education from Concordia University. For the last 10 years Kevin has worked full time as a principal and a full-time teacher. He is incredibly excited to begin working at the Maine Arts Academy, where he can bring his unique style of teaching and student engagement to this amazing school. kcullen@maineartsacademy.org
Kevin Cullen
Department of Social Studies
Kami DeDoes
Front Desk Staff
Kami Dedoes is the friendly face who greets everyone with a warm smile the moment they walk through our doors. She handles attendance calls with care, keeps our front office running smoothly, and goes above and beyond to support students, families, and staff every single day. kdedoes@maineartsacademy.org
Nicole graduated from the University of Maine at Augusta with a Bachelor's in Liberal Arts with a double minor in secondary education and psychology. She have taught grades 7 through 12 across all types of science but is biased toward life science, particularly anatomy. When she doesn't have her teacher hat on, she is a mom to 3 very active boys and in her spare time she enjoys reading and crocheting. nelliott@maineartsacademy.org
Nicole Elliott
Department of Science
Sonja Fraser has a blended career history in Art and Education and a lifetime as a professional artist. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and went on to manage the art studio for Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Mike Peters. From there, she owned and operated a trophy shop that made the Orange Bowl Trophy and other well-known sculptural awards. She has owned and operated her custom jewelry business (with a soft spot for silver clay and beadwork) for over 25 years. After various art teaching and higher education positions, Mrs. Fraser began the Visual Arts Department at MeAA as Director of Visual Arts. After a recent four-year stay in Arizona as an educator for a large animal rescue, she is returning to Maine and MeAA as the Fine Art Curator. She will facilitate studio courses and curate art shows for fine artists. In her free time, Mrs. Fraser enjoys gallery openings and community events, the outdoors of Maine, family time, creating art, and teaching the Animal Welfare program for Emerald City Pet Rescue. sfraser@maineartsacademy.org
W. Gantt
Department of Social Studies
Gantt is one of our outstanding high school Humanities teachers and a proud Maine Arts Academy alumnus. During his time as a student at MEAA, he was an active member of the Chess Club and developed a strong passion for critical thinking and creativity. Now, he’s come full circle—sharing that same enthusiasm with his students and inspiring the next generation of learners. wgantt@maineartsacademy.org
Sonja Fraser
Department of Visual Arts
Rodney Garland
Department of Maintenance
Rodney is one of our incredible maintenance team members who truly does it all. From cleaning, building, and fixing to lending a hand wherever he’s needed, Rodney brings a positive spirit and genuine care to everything he does. Whether he’s checking in on a student or polishing the floors while dancing to his favorite upbeat music, Rodney’s energy and dedication help make MEAA a brighter, happier place for everyone. rgarland@maineartsacademy.org
Clarissa Hemphill
Department of Student Services
Clarissa graduated from the University of Maine at Presque Isle with a Bachelor's of Arts in English in 2022 and from the University of Southern Maine with a Master's of Science in Special Education in 2025. She also has 3 years of experience in the field of children's behavioral health. Clarissa knew she wanted to work in a helping profession since she was a child. She started volunteering at her local arts center as she was old enough to, as well as her local soup kitchen. It was when she was a junior in high school where she made the connection between the passion of helping others and the field of education. In her free time, Clarissa enjoys writing, making jewelry, playing video games, cosplaying and travelling. Her favorite places are Los Angeles, Boston and Japan. chemphill@maineartsacademy.org
Cory King
Operations Director
Cory King comes to Maine Arts Academy with over 20 years of experience in education. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University and also holds a Master Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Cory was a school administrator for 10 years and before that was a teacher at the State Prison in Pennsylvania. His experience lends itself to the operations director position because Mr. King grew up as a jack of all trades. He has building skills, mechanical skills and is trained in building Safety as an ALICE instructor. His expertise in education along with his hands-on trade skills has brought him to Maine Arts Academy. In his spare time, Cory is an outdoor enthusiast, a gardener, and loves to cook and make his own maple syrup. He has 3 grown children who he enjoys spending time with. cking@maineartsacademy.org
Amy Lawson
Department of Mathematic
Amy holds a BA from University of Maine, and a Masters of Public Administration from Midwestern State University. Amy is also a proud Maine Arts Mom. Her son graduated from the music program in 2023, and her daughter will be a member of the class of 2028. In addition to her classroom duties, Amy is launching The Art of Cycling summer program at Maine Arts, and oversees the Outdoor Adventure Club. She has spent the last 15 years of her career as a full time fitness coach, and the Owner & Operator of Kennebec Valley Coaching in Augusta. She has coached people of all ages in running, mountain biking, triathlon, and high adventure. Amy is a Registered Maine Guide, and has completed Ironman Lake Placid, The Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race, and will run the 2024 Boston Marathon. She is so happy to help the students at Maine Arts experience the outdoors and enjoy physical movement. alawson@maineartsacademy.org
Dominic Hunt
Department of Maintenance
Ed Hunt
Department of Maintenance
Ed is one of our dedicated nightly custodial staff, working tirelessly to ensure our school stays clean, welcoming, and safe for students and staff. His hard work behind the scenes makes a big difference every day, and we’re grateful for the care he puts into every detail. ehunt@maineartsacademy.org
Kat Klebon
Department of Science
Kat Klebon is one of our outstanding high school science teachers who brings creativity, curiosity, and care to the classroom. Thoughtful in their approach and full of innovative ideas, Kat helps students explore the world of science in engaging and meaningful ways. We’re so grateful to have Kat as part of our MEAA team! kklebon@maineartsacademy.org
Stephen Legawiec
Department of Theater
In his 35 years as a director, Stephen Legawiec (le-gahv-yetz) has curated over 100 professional productions as well as directing over 75. He was artist-in-residence at Teatr Stary in Krakow, Poland and is a member of the International School of Theatre Anthropology. He founded Vermont’s White River Theatre Festival in 1988 and served as Artistic Director. During this time, he created the Invisible Theatre Project, which delved into the use of text as music and emotion, rather than as language. In 1997 he launched Ziggurat Theatre Ensemble to explore the relevance of myth and ritual to a contemporary audience, and for which he wrote and directed every play. Legawiec is the author of 35 plays, including the critically acclaimed Red Thread, which won the 2003 Garland Award for Los Angeles Production of the year. In addition, Legawiec has designed over 50 sets and composed over a dozen theatrical scores. Outside of the U.S., his work has most recently been seen in Trois-Rivieres, Canada, at the Season of Unusual Theatre. He is currently the Artistic Director of Camden Shakespeare Festival. slegawiec@maineartsacademy.org
Dominic is 62 years old and graduated from Gardiner High School in 1981. Following graduation, he dedicated 4 ½ years in the United States Marine Corp. Shortly after getting out of the United States Marine Corp, Dominic got married to his wife Kathy. They are celebrating their 39th wedding anniversary this year. They have two children and two grandchildren. Dominic held various jobs before he started working for the state of Maine in 1986. He retired from working at the Maine State Prison as a prison guard and started working at MeAA a little over a year ago and is truly enjoying it. In his free time, Dominic can be found hunting, fishing, and his favorite hobby, camping. dhunt@maineartsacademy.org
John Kohler
Department of Transportation
John is one of our amazing bus drivers, dedicated to getting students to and from school safely and with a smile. His reliability and warm personality make him an important part of our MEAA family. jkohler@maineartsacademy.org
Tara Littrell
Information Technology Director
Tara joins the Maine Arts Academy as the Information Technology Director, bringing a solid background in computer systems, troubleshooting, and network management. She provides technical support to students, teachers, and staff. Outside of work, Tara is a high school wrestling coach and enjoys outdoor activities. She spends her time kayaking, geocaching, and rockhounding with her husband and two children. itadmin@maineartsacademy.org
Dani Marquis
Food Service
Dani is one of our amazing food service staff and a proud recent graduate of Maine Arts Academy. During her time at MEAA, she focused on the Music and Visual Arts pathway, and her incredible voice often graces school events and performances. Dani brings the same energy, creativity, and dedication to her role in our cafeteria, making every day brighter for students and staff alike. dmarquist@maineartsacademy.org
Nicole Pantalone
Special Education Coordinator
Mrs. Pantalone’s academic background includes a B.S. in Mental Health and Human Services, with a minor in Addiction Studies. She interned at the Phoenix Academy, a school/ residential substance abuse treatment center for adolescents. After graduating, Nicole became a certified alcohol and drug counselor. She also has 15 years of experience working in special education at Windsor Elementary School. While working as a special education ed tech, Nicole continued her education to become a certified special education teacher. Being part of the MeAA team is an exciting new opportunity for her and she looks forward to working with high school students. Besides teaching, Nicole is very family-oriented. She enjoys spending time with her 5-year-old daughter, including taking walks together and trips to the library and beach. Most mornings, she starts her day with strength training or a workout. Nicole also enjoys reading for some downtime. In the future, she hopes to spend more time traveling to experience new places. npantalone@maineartsacademy.org
Nicholas Rhodes
Department of Music
Nicholas Rhodes earned a degree in music composition from the University of Southern Maine, where he developed his skills in creating innovative musical works. When he is not teaching, he enjoys performing live music and composing soundtracks for various media, including television shows, video games, and films. nrhodes@maineartsacademy.org
Kelly Smith
Social Work
Kelly is our incredible school counselor, truly dedicated to supporting every student. Insightful, compassionate, and always approachable, she is there for students whether they’re facing a challenging class, a tough day, or a difficult week. Kelly’s guidance, care, and unwavering support make her an essential part of the MEAA community. ksmith@maineartsacademy.org
Jay Medlock
Department of Transportation
Jay was young in the 1980s and he wanted to change the world. He embraced bus driving upon a realization that the world was not ready for him. We all choose our battles and right from wrong on our own. Upon experiencing the larger world of corporate and public service positions, he realized that there is an appropriate time and place for everything. Taking care of people, especially our children, is extremely worthwhile to him. He truly enjoys building a rapport with students and hearing about their activities. Moreover, he knows that a positive bus driver can make a student’s day before they even make it to school. Jay can often be found substitute teaching in a classroom between bus runs. Growing up in central Maine, Jay spent his childhood involved in scouting, participating in sports and theater, and working at local farms. Jay was working in the Finance and Budget Department at the University of Maine at Augusta when he earned his Bachelors of Science in Public Administration. He completed internships with the Maine State Legislature and the Town of Mt. Vernon for the degree program. After graduation he worked for public and private organizations including The U.S.A. Iving oil corp., L.L. Bean Inc,, MSAD 49, RSU 38, MSAD 11, First Student Inc., KVCAP, Robert’s Energy Inc., and Busy Hands Daycare. When he’s not behind the wheel of his bus, Jay spends his time in the splendor of Maine’s outdoors fishing, hiking, camping, and observing nature. He also treasures time spent with his sons Tristan and Keegan and their partners. jmedlock@maineartsacademy.org
Liz Park
Department of Special Education
Liz Park graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and has certification as both a K-12 music teacher and Ed. Tech III. She previously taught at Hebron Academy for two years. Prior to pursuing music, Liz was on an engineering path and was selected as a high school senior for a highly competitive future engineers program at The University of Maine Orono. She looks forward to bringing strength in music, math and the humanities to MeAA. Throughout high school and college, Liz participated in the auditioned Portland Youth Wind Ensemble, concert band, jazz band, and marching band as a clarinet and saxophone player, drum major, and conductor. Vocally, she lent her skills as a Soprano I to chorus, chamber singers, and treble choir culminating in a tour of England, Scotland, and Ireland with the UMaine Singers and participation in the Interkultur Vietnam International Choir Competition in Hoi An with the University of Southern Maine Chamber Singers where they were selected as finalists. Liz’s love of musical theater began at the age of 7 when she saw the incredible Idina Menzel as Elphaba in Wicked on Broadway. Her signed cast poster is a treasured possession appearing on the walls of dorm rooms, offices, and apartments throughout Maine. Liz was cast in productions of Phantom of the Opera, Pippin, and Urinetown in high school and college and lent her theater make-up skills to a production of Cats. Residing in the enchanted enclave of Hallowell, Maine, Liz shares her life with her beloved and utterly spoiled yellow lab, Daisy. epark@maineartsacademy.org
Jasen Richardson
Chair of Academics, Department of English, Department of Film Studies
Mr. Richardson received his Bachelor of Arts in English from Middle Tennessee State University, where he also minored in film studies and secondary education, his Master of Arts in English from Southern New Hampshire University, and his Master of Humanities in Film Studies from Tiffin University. He is licensed to teach 7-12 English in the state of Maine. He taught 8th grade English and directed the middle school drama department for seven years in Tennessee. He then began his career at Maine Arts Academy in 2018 and is currently teaching English 2, Introduction to Film Studies, Honors Film Genre and Theory, Film Production 1 and 2, and two college English courses (ENG 101 and 102W) through UMA. Mr. Richardson is also the Chair of Academics. He has an enormous love for Maine Arts Academy and is honored to be a part of helping advance the school's culture in a positive direction. Besides teaching, his other passions include his family (especially his sons, his daughter, and his fiancée), his friends, traveling, going to concerts, most music (especially The Grateful Dead and Ween), watching films, reading, and film and video production. jrichardson@maineartsacademy.org
Nicole Somers
Sp.Ed Administrative Assistant
Nicole, our talented administrative assistant, keeps everything organized and running smoothly. She works directly with our Department of Special Education, providing essential support for students and staff, and her friendly, dedicated nature makes her a key part of the MEAA community. nsomers@maineartsacademy.org
Jeff Mills
Department of Transportation
Jeff has had many different jobs over the years, most of them related to driving. He most recently retired from Coca-Cola after nearly 36 years of service, during which time he wore a few different hats, but mainly as a delivery driver. He also transported children to Sunday school and helped with transporting handicapped folks. He is looking forward to his new role as a bus driver for MeAA. Jeff and his wife Karen have two grown children and two grandchildren living in central Maine. When he and his wife aren't attending or helping out at church, they enjoy spending time with family and friends and Rufus, their 9-year-old poodle. jmills@maineartsacademy.org
Robert Pycior
Department of Music
Robert Pycior has been performing and creating music for over 30 years, starting with the violin at age six and going on to tour internationally. As a teacher, Robert has provided private lessons in over 10 instruments. He was the Lead Teaching Artist and Operations Manager at ROCmusic (Rochester, NY). He also teaches at Snow Pond Community Arts (Sydney, ME). His compositions for film and TV have received Academy Award nominations, Peabody Awards, SXSW Audience Awards, Sundance Film Festival Grand Juries, and Emmy nominations. Robert graduated from the State University of New York at Purchase, Purchase, NY - BFA Major in Studio Composition. rpycior@maineartsacademy.org
Arnold Rogers
Department of Transportation
Arnold is one of our amazing bus drivers, committed to getting students to and from school safely while brightening their day with his friendly spirit. arogers@maineartsacademy.org
Keenan Soule
Department of English
Keenan Soule is a recent Honors graduate from the University of Maine at Orono. He double majored in English (with a concentration in Creative Writing and Poetry) and Secondary Education(with a concentration in English Education). He is a lifelong Maine resident and lifelong learner who (surprise, surprise) loves reading and writing. Keenan teaches Creative Writing, English 1, English 4, and Reading. ksoule@maineartsacademy.org
Robert Cade
Department of Science
Since graduating from the University of Maine’s Ecology and Environmental Sciences program in 2023, Robert has pursued multiple career interests, working first as a research assistant on multiple projects based at UMaine’s School of Earth and Climate Sciences and as a teaching aid for a geomorphology course, and then as a Surveying Technician for Haley Ward Inc. Robert has also been working as a substitute teacher at MeAA for the past five years. With a career goal to improve and give back to the community in which he grew up, Robert views teaching at MeAA as a great avenue to do so. rcade@maineartsacademy.org
Russ Cox
Department of Visual Arts
Russ Cox was raised by a pack of crazed hillbillies in the backwoods of Tennessee. Without much in the way of modern conveniences, like television or running water, he spent his time drawing, whittling, and throwing dirt clods at his cousins. With the bulk of his life spent in Pennsylvania, he met his wife; became a graphic designer; played in punk, alternative, and surf bands; had two kids; and started his own illustration studio, Smiling Otis Studio (named after one of their enormous cats). Russ creates his art using digital software, primarily Clip Studio, and other digital tools. He works in traditional mediums, often with a mixture of paper, pencil, pen & ink, gouache, and watercolor. Russ lives in Maine with his wife and three cats. rcox@maineartsacademy.org
Phil grew up in Whitefield, Maine, where he was fortunate to have exceptional teachers—among them Page Keeley, a nationally recognized leader in math and science education. From as early as first grade, Phil knew he wanted to become a teacher, inspired by the profound impact educators can have on their students. Now a special education teacher, Phil has been connected to the world of disabilities throughout his life. His father was illiterate and had limited formal education, while his mother barely completed the eighth grade. Phil is the first person in his immediate family to graduate from college and has dedicated the past 24 years to working in various roles within the field of education. pferguson@maineartsacademy.org
Philip Ferguson
Department of Student Services
Travis Harden
Department of Visual Arts
Travis Harden is a University of Southern Maine graduate with a BFA in Theater Performance and a minor in Environmental Science. He is a self taught portrait photographer who has worked in the industry doing a variety of shoots for models, dancers, actors, couples, weddings and behind the scenes film photography. He also works in the film industry here in Maine and has experience filming advertisements, musicians and has worked on and created multiple award winning short films. In his limited free time he enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and skiing, spending time with his family, his cat Luna and creating his own projects with his friends. tharden@maineartsacademy.org
Jessica Kananis
Department of Transportation
Jessica is one of our dedicated bus drivers, committed to getting students to and from school safely each day. Her friendly attitude and reliability make her an essential part of keeping our MEAA community moving! jkananis@maineartsacademy.org
Katie Korbin
Department of Transportation
Katie is one of our friendly bus drivers who helps get students to and from school each day. She brings a positive attitude and a caring presence to her role, helping make each day’s commute a little brighter for our students. kkorbin@maineartsacademy.org
Parker Maes
Director of Admissions & Marketing
Parker Maes is a creative visionary with a Bachelor’s degree in New Media from the University of Maine, complemented by dual minors in Graphic Design and Film. Throughout college, her work seamlessly blended the avant-garde with the everyday, reflecting a passion for visual storytelling and innovative design. Parker has experience scuba diving and researching invasive species in the lakes of Maine and has three years of administrative experience as well. She started her career at Bowdoin College and has returned to Maine Arts Academy. Parker is an alumni of Maine Arts Academy and graduated as class valedictorian. In her free time, she enjoys walking her dog Frankie, spending time by the lake and exploring Maine. pmaes@maineartsacademy.org
Jenna Murray
Chief Financial Officer
Jenna obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Thomas College in 2020, and since has gained experience in working in finance and office management. Jenna lives in Rome with her husband, son and English Lab. When she's not working, she loves spending time with her family and friends, enjoying the outdoors. jmurray@maineartsacademy.org
Hannah Ranco
Department of Dance
Hannah Ranco is a New England based dancer, choreographer, and educator. Hannah earned her BFA in dance studies from Dean College in 2021. After graduating, Hannah danced as a professional NBA dancer with the Boston Celtics. Hannah has danced in several music videos and live performances with artists such as DJ Kool, Montell Jordan, and Spose. Hannah has also worked in the concert dance world with choreographers such as Ilya Vidrin, Jessi Stegall, and Kelsie Steil. Hannah performed in Jessi Stegall's Theremin Vignettes at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, and has attended two residencies at the Harvard Dance Center with choreographer Ilya Vidrin. Hannah has also choreographed for numerous college and high school dance programs. These programs include Thornton Academy, Casco Bay High School PATHS program, Dean College, and Endicott College. Prior to teaching at MEAA, Hannah was a college professor at Endicott College where she taught Commercial Dance and Intro to Dance. hranco@maineartsacademy.org
Rebecca Singer
Department of World Languages
Rebecca Singer attended the University of Maine at Augusta, where she continued to study the French she had learned in high school. She was active in the French Club, participating in many fun activities and events including a trip to Quebec and an immersion program on the Maine coast. A certified English teacher, Rebecca has also worked as a Writing & Reading Tutor, Substitute Teacher and Special Educational Technician. She started working at MEAA as a Title 1 English Teacher in 2022 and moved to teaching French in 2023. She has since continued to keep up her French language skills, attending French immersion events and spending two weeks in Paris in 2024. Rebecca spent six years in the U.S. Navy, during which time she traveled extensively. More recently, she served on the board of directors for Gaslight Theater and co-directed the drama club at Hall-Dale High School. She played roller derby with Kennebec Valley Roller Derby (KVRD) and Androscoggin Fallen Angels (AFA) and was the lead singer of local rock band Supercat. Rebecca is proudly supported and adored by her husband, son, and their two cats. rsinger@maineartsacademy.org
Carina Weston
Director of Food Services
Carina Weston is a graduate of Gardiner Area High School and Capilo Institute of Maine. She is a licensed cosmetologist as well as a licensed cosmetologist. She currently still works as a cosmetologist but also has experience in the food industry. She is looking forward to starting a new venture as the Director of Food Services at Maine Arts Academy. cweston@maineartsacademy.org
RJ Miller
Department of Music
Long a fixture on the NYC and European jazz/experimental scenes, RJ has performed and recorded with artists like George Garzone, Ben Street, Bill McHenry, Eric Revis, Hugo Rasmussen, Meshell N'degeocello, Larry Grenadier, Jorge Rossy, and Aaron Parks to name a few. RJ's education has been primarily through private instruction from masters like Ornette Coleman, Frank Wess, Masabumi Kikuchi, Juini Booth, Reggie Workman, Billy Hart, Steve Grover, Jeff Williams and Jeff Hirshfield. He is best known for his work on albums like "Ben Entrada La Nit," "Alive in Japan," "Ronald's Rhythm," "RJ Miller Trio," "Plainville," If the Past Seems So Bright," "Memories of Days Gone By," "Intuition," "Sinker," "Wicca," "Dreams in Apartments," and "Horses." See more on R.J. below: https://www.speedwellprojects.com/rj-miller rmiller@maineartsacademy.org