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Behind the Scenes

A few days ago, right around dinner time, I received a phone call from Director of Facilities Jason Murray. I believe I was trying to get one of my daughters to stop throwing macaroni and cheese at the time. He informed me that, unfortunately, after doing some needed electrical upgrades in Fogg, our slightly antiquated fire panel had been fried. While the sprinkler system was still operational, aspects of the fire alarm system had been compromised. The good news was that we could have a temporary fix in place before lunch the next day and a more permanent solution in a few days. Jason was particularly happy about his conversation with the Chief of Fire in South Berwick, who said he was willing to allow us to hold classes the next day given most of the system was operational, but only if he knew the building was monitored throughout the night. In his typical matter-fact way, Jason let me know that he would be taking the shift from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM and Richie Knowles would be in Fogg from 2:00 AM to 7:00 in the morning.

            “What?” I said. “You guys have to sleep over in Fogg?”

            “Sure. Isn’t it great that we can have classes there tomorrow? I would take that deal any day. It will probably give me a chance to throw some salt on the ice patches as well.”

            Given what I know of these two guys, and our staff in general, I suppose I should not have been surprised. But there were so many parts of the interaction that moved me. First, the problem was solved before I was notified. Second, there was no question what needed to be done and who was going to do it. And I thought to myself that this was the kind of Berwick moment that no one ever hears about. Our families would never have to experience a day or two of canceled or displaced classes. Our teachers would not have to adjust lesson plans, and our students would not miss a minute of their academic program. It would be like nothing had happened.


            But of course, something did happen. We were reminded that working for these children and their families is more than a job. We were reminded that this community is special, and that we exist for our students. Finally, we were reminded of how much happens behind the scenes at this school to make the experience possible.

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