Kolten Slater
On April 1st The 2026 Leadership Greater Nashua cohort had the privilege of exploring the incredible opportunities offered to our students, not only in the Nashua area but much beyond that. During the afternoon portion of our expedition we were fortunate enough to tour both Nashua South High School and The Nashua Community College. We had a lovely selection of speakers to include, Jennifer Bishop, President of the Nashua School Board, Dr. Mario Andrade, Superintendent of the Nashua School district, Robert Ciappa, Director English Language learners, Nashua School district, Helayne Talbott, Director of Nashua Technology Center and Jaime Nadeau, Work based learning Coordinator, Nashua Technology Center after transitioning to NCC we were greeted by Dr. James Keene, President of NCC and Marissa Dardagiannopoulos, Dual enrollment Specialist.
This portion was especially intriguing to me, I must admit. I come from a family of educators and I especially appreciate the kind of people our educators are. They listen, they care, they solve problems. That is common through lots of careers however, education is different, it is imperative these people continue to push the envelope and expand on how, where, when and what may be the best motive and strategy. Every single person we heard from, is that person, and that motivator.
Our afternoon session began with a panel discussion consisting of our five Nashua School district professionals. Presented with an excellent selection of questions and discussions they had support and encouragement behind everything they said. When Dr Mario Andrade was presented with the simple question of ‘what are your best, favorite moments’, He responded as you would expect, he loves and appreciates the moments where his school communities, along with local communities unite, grow and progress. Several examples, maybe some more special than others, but it is the activism, the community and the teamwork that grows within a school that is incredible. Agreed DR. A question presented to Robert Ciappa, Director English was what may be needed to expand and develop the growing ELL program in Nashua. This only seems fitting if we grow a program that is ever growing and helps to build inclusive communities. His start to the answer was as you would think, we need more staff, which is true, but he also spoke about the training portion which i believe is the key here. He wants to build an atmosphere where staff are committed to the best interest of the student and the greater good, rather than compliance to a hypothetical plan. Teaching and learning you need to adjust, adapt and care.
Our visit to NCC was my first. It was a true enjoyment being able to simply listen to Dr James Keane, his view of the school, the direction and purpose for it and how it intends to mold its courses to what truly suits the community and its students needs. Ncc offers a broad range of programs, including certificated and industry leading credits and systems, that should only continue to improve! NCC also makes an offering to local high school students that would like to enroll in their dual enrollment system, where they are earning both high school and college credits, before graduating high school! We were able to meet some students at Nashua south enrolled in these programs taking advantage of this opportunity. Smart kids.
At the close of our speakers and once the dust settled, I think the entire conglomerate was amazed, from every angle, every industry. There was something for everybody. Students can get exposure on a massive level.
Thank you to our educators.
Written By: Kolten Slater
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