Academy News & Updates | Pinkerton Academy | Derry, NH

Meet the Teachers - September 23, 2026

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Meet the Teachers Event
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
1:00-3:00 p.m. and 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Pinkerton Academy will host the Meet Teachers Event (formerly known as Open House) on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. The purpose of this afternoon/evening is to give families the opportunity to meet briefly (less than 5-minutes) with their students’ teachers to discuss expectations and class procedures for the upcoming semester/year. Due to the large number of parents/guardians who visit the Academy during the Meet the Teachers Event, please do not expect to have lengthy teacher conferences. If you wish to speak with a teacher at length, please arrange for a follow-up conference. If someone is meeting with the teacher when you arrive, please wait outside the classroom until the existing meeting has concluded.

The school counselors welcome you to stop in during the Meet the Teachers Event to meet your student’s counselor and get information about the services they can provide you and your student throughout the year. The freshman counseling office is located on the first floor of the Academy Building. The counseling office for sophomores, juniors, and seniors is located on the 3rd floor of the Low Building.

NCAA Presentation
Session #1 - 1:15pm., Session #2 - 6:00pm.
Presenters: Brian O’Reilly, Athletic Director, Grant Frohock, School Counseling.
Academy Building Lecture Hall (across from the cafeteria).

Aspen Accounts
For parents/guardians who have questions regarding an ASPEN account, Mr. P. O’Reilly will be available to assist you in the Media Center (6108) in the Academy Building during both sessions.

Students will be released at 12:23 p.m. on September 23. There will be two visitation sessions: 1:00-3:00 p.m. and 5:00-7:00 p.m. Parents/guardians of students from all grades are invited to this event. In an attempt to prevent long lines, we ask parents/guardians of freshmen whose last names begin with A–J to visit English teachers between 1:00 & 2:00 or 5:00 & 6:00 p.m. and then move to other subjects. Parents/guardians of freshmen whose last names begin with K–Z should visit Math/Algebra teachers between 1:00 & 2:00 or 5:00 & 6:00 p.m. before moving on to other subjects. You will find it helpful to sit down with your child and map out a visitation route that will help keep you from having to travel back and forth across the campus. Thank you for your cooperation and we look forward to seeing you!

Staff Locations

Campus Map

Homecoming Ticket Sales

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Homecoming Dance Information

Dance: Sat. Sept. 26 from 7 pm to 10 pm
Hackler Gymnasium
Cost: $20 (cash or check - payable to "Pinkerton Academy Student Council" only)
Must be in school by 9:00 am on Fri. Sept. 25

Ticket Sales

Dates: Mon. Sept. 14 and Tue. Sept. 15
Times: 6:30 am to 7:00 am (or until sold out)
Location: Science Lecture Hall
Academy Plan or late bus? Go see Mr. Breda in 306 or email jbreda@pinkertonacademy.org

Additional Information

All grades can attend.
No guests from outside Pinkerton.
You cannot buy a ticket for someone else.
You must have ID to get a ticket.
Dues do NOT have to be paid.
This dance does sell out, and tickets are first come, first serve.

Pinkerton Academy Names 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The Pinkerton Academy Hall of Fame Committee selected five community members to be inducted this year. The newest members will include Jennifer Brown, Allan Hall, Richard Holmes, John Schlichte, and George Tyler.

Jennifer Brown
A 1997 Pinkerton graduate, Jennifer Brown teaches Family and Consumer Science at Pinkerton Academy. She acts as a faculty mentor, FCCLA advisor, five-time class advisor, and 12-year Alumni Association Board member. She is a past Delta Kappa Gamma chapter president and recipient of the 2012 Shepard Award.

Allan Hall
Allan Hall taught Fine Arts at Pinkerton for 35 years. He was a 1999 Shepard Award winner, and was named both the Student Council Rookie Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the Year. He helped shape the campus visual identity through signage and graphics and spent years doing set designs for theater productions. Hall is an accomplished American realist painter whose work has been featured on NH Chronicle and recognized by the Copley Society of Boston and the Currier Museum of Art.

Richard Holmes
A Vietnam War combat medic and 2010 Honorary Alumnus, Richard Holmes taught history for 30 years at Pelham Middle School. He founded the Derry Museum of History, authored six books on local history, and donated extensive archives to Pinkerton Academy. Recognized for decades of civic leadership, Holmes was named the 2006 NH Municipal Association Volunteer of the Year and listed in Who's Who in America for 20 consecutive editions.

John Schlichte
John Schlichte, a Class of 1981 graduate, was an elite Pinkerton soccer player who scored 25-plus goals in a single season. He went on to serve in the U.S. Army as an Airborne Rifle Squad Leader and won the 1988 Best Ranger Competition. Following his military service, Schlichte has built a successful business career and co-founded the Warrior Rizen Foundation to support military and survivor families.

George “Lefty” Tyler
George “Lefty” Tyler (attended 1903–1904) was the first Pinkerton student to play Major League Baseball. A pitcher who logged 388 games over 12 seasons, he helped lead the 1914 Boston Braves from last place to a World Series championship. Boston declared "Tyler Day" in his honor on September 30, 1913, and he later served as an MLB umpire for 12 years.

Workforce Development Leader Joshua Reap Named to Pinkerton Academy Board of Trustees

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Pinkerton Academy Board of Trustees President Mark Laliberte has announced the appointment of Joshua Reap to the Board of Trustees, representing Candia.

"Knowing Josh in a professional capacity, I had seen his intellect, his strategic mind, and his work ethic as traits that would make for a great Pinkerton trustee,” Laliberte said. “In meeting with him more, his passion for the development of a young workforce, particularly in the trades, was evident. This combination will be an asset to the Board of Trustees, the students of Pinkerton Academy, and the entire Pinkerton community."

A respected leader across New England's economic and workforce development sectors, Reap serves as President & CEO of the Associated Builders and Contractors of New Hampshire/Vermont and President of the Board of Directors for the Vermont Construction Academy.

Highly sought after by state policymakers, business coalitions, and educational organizations, he has built a respected reputation for bridging the gap between local industries and classrooms. By bringing his strategic insights on addressing labor shortages and modernizing training to Pinkerton’s Board, Reap is uniquely positioned to help the Academy connect students with high-tech, highly rewarding career opportunities.

“I am deeply honored to join the Pinkerton Academy Board of Trustees as the representative for my hometown of Candia,” said Reap. “Pinkerton has a proud legacy of preparing students for success, and I’m excited to bring my experience in workforce development and industry partnerships to help expand opportunities—especially in the skilled trades—for the next generation of Pinkerton students. Together, we can strengthen the bridge between the classroom and rewarding, high-demand careers right here in New Hampshire.”

Reap joins a diverse Board consisting of professionals in education, business, medicine, and public service. He resides in Candia, NH, with his family.

Pinkerton Board of Trustees Sees New Leadership in 2026-2027

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Pinkerton Academy is pleased to announce the elected officers of the Board of Trustees for the 2026-2027 school year.

With new leadership in key positions, the Board remains committed to fostering forward-thinking innovation while honoring the foundational values, tradition, and educational opportunities that define Pinkerton Academy.

Mark J. Laliberte of Candia has been elected as President. He is currently a Business Development Manager with the New Hampshire Department of Business & Economic Affairs. With a background in public administration and a commitment to fostering student-focused initiatives that connect business and education, Mr. Laliberte brings experienced leadership and an innovative mindset to the role.

Dr. Christopher B. Harper has been elected as First Vice President. A well-respected member of the Pinkerton Academy faculty for almost 40 years, he began his tenure as a Biology teacher, served as the Science Department Chair, and ended his career as the Dean of Academic Affairs. Dr. Harper is recognized at the state level as a leader in curriculum development and acts as an educational consultant.

Elise L. Harnisch of Hooksett has been elected Second Vice President. Known for her involvement in education and advocacy, Mrs. Harnisch supports the Board’s work with a focus on supporting student and family needs. With extensive volunteer and community service experience, Harnisch is passionate about supporting the needs of all children. She has served on the Boards of the New Hampshire Hospital for Children, the Hooksett PTA, and the Granite State Children's Alliance.

Dr. Bonnie L. Eckerman of Chester will now serve as Secretary. Dr. Eckerman is a pediatric physical therapist who charitably extends her work to support mothers of children with disabilities in Rwanda. With a career rooted in healthcare and advocacy, she brings a deep commitment to service, organizational wellness, and community outreach.

Adam J. Mead of Derry will continue to serve as Treasurer. A seasoned financial professional, Mr. Mead brings sound fiscal oversight to the management of the Academy’s financial operations. With years of experience in budgeting, corporate governance, and long-term financial planning, his continued leadership ensures economic stability. Mr. Mead’s expertise remains vital to aligning the Academy's budgetary goals with its long-term educational mission.

Kristin A. Brown, CPA, of Derry will serve as Assistant Treasurer. Bringing a robust background in corporate accounting and public finance, Ms. Brown specializes in regulatory compliance and strategic fiscal management. Working alongside Mr. Mead, she will leverage her deep financial acumen and strong analytical skills to help guide the institution's ongoing financial stability and operational success.

The Board is further strengthened by the continued service of several distinguished trustees, whose professional backgrounds span education, medicine, public service, and business:

Dr. Timothy J. Butterfield, Derry
Dr. Scott Copeland, Derry
Ms. Julie N. Demers, Auburn
Mr. John C. Hobden, PE, Chester
Ms. Katie C. Lajewski, CPA, Member at Large
Mr. Joshua P. Reap, Candia
Mr. David R. Smith, Hampstead
Mr. Kevin W. Stuart, Esq., Auburn

Working with Head of School Dr. Timothy J. Powers, this accomplished group of leaders will further the Academy's mission through strategic oversight and forward-thinking guidance. By leveraging their diverse professional backgrounds, the Board is poised to steer the institution through another successful year of academic growth and innovation.

Math teacher Christa Powers named New Hampshire Teacher of the Year

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Math teacher Christa Powers named New Hampshire Teacher of the Year

On the very last day of classes ahead of exams, the Pinkerton Academy community celebrated more than just the coming summer break. That morning, the New Hampshire Department of Education came to camps to announce that Christa Powers, math teacher at Pinkerton Academy, is New Hampshire’s 2027 Teacher of the Year.

Powers emerged as the winner after a selection process that started with 124 nominees. Joined by her family, colleagues, and a few of her students, Powers learned the news at a surprise celebration on Wednesday that included a parade through campus as students and staff cheered.

“Christa is a truly deserving recipient of this honor,” said Pinkerton Academy Head of School, Dr. Timothy J. Powers. “Her dedication to students and passion for teaching make a lasting impact in the classroom and beyond.”

In the math department, Powers teaches a variety of courses and levels, meeting the needs of all learners. Her work to implement the Technical Mathematics Course for Career and Technical Education has truly been transformative for students.

Dr. J. Lynn Resmini, Dean of Faculty, emphasized how Powers’ influence extends far beyond her individual classroom walls.

“Christa being named 2027 Teacher of the Year represents how one individual can impact so many facets of education,” said Dr. Resmini. “Not only is she an engaging and effective educator in both the math and CTE classrooms, but her mentorship and coaching of her colleagues, along with her dedication to developing an authentic co-teaching model in both content spaces, is prevalent on Pinkerton's campus.”

Dr. Resmini added that Powers has been a cornerstone of professional growth at the academy. “Christa has mentored numerous educators, some new to the field, and has been an active educator apprentice mentor, helping many teachers who are on the path of becoming educators to be successful in their journey through courses and on-the-job learning. She plays a prominent role of attracting and retaining educators in our field.”

Jenny Walker, Associate Dean of Academics of Math, also praised Powers for her unique ability to inspire confidence in her students while pioneering new educational pathways.

“Christa Powers is a remarkable educator, celebrated for her thoughtful, kind, and inspiring approach to teaching,” Walker said. “As the 2027 New Hampshire Teacher of the Year, she exemplifies dedication and has made a positive impact on the field of education. By cultivating an environment grounded in motivation and self-efficacy, she empowers learners to engage in collaborative problem-solving and creative exploration.”

Walker noted that this innovative spirit has fundamentally shifted how students view the discipline. “As an innovator, Christa integrated mathematics into Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses, making math accessible and practical for a diverse student body. Her leadership continues to have a widespread and positive influence on both students and adults.”

CTE Director Jen Haskins highlighted how this cross-disciplinary collaboration sets a gold standard for modern education.

“Christa Powers is the kind of educator every school hopes to have,” said Haskins. “What sets Christa apart is her willingness to step outside the traditional classroom and collaborate across disciplines to enhance student learning. She is an incredible partner to our Career and Technical Education Department. Her impact extends far beyond her own classroom, influencing colleagues, strengthening curriculum, and inspiring students to achieve more than they thought possible.”

Haskins continued, “I can think of no one more deserving of the honor of being named the 2027 New Hampshire Teacher of the Year. Christa represents the very best of our profession, and we are fortunate to have her as a member of the Pinkerton Academy community.”

The sentiment is echoed by those who work alongside her every day in the classroom. Nathan Phillips, a colleague and co-teacher who has worked closely with Powers for the last three years, spoke to her profound impact on the school's daily culture.

“Over that time she has been an amazing colleague and co-teacher. I have truly enjoyed working together,” Phillips said. “She is always positive and that positivity spreads like wildfire. I am constantly inspired by her abilities to help all kinds of learners and I am truly blessed to be able to work with her. She is one of the most selfless and humble people I have ever met and I am so happy that she has been selected as the 2027 NH Teacher of the Year!”

Overwhelmed by the campus-wide celebration, Powers expressed deep appreciation for her support systems and shared her vision for the future of math education.

“I am so grateful for this honor and for my family both at home and at school,” Powers said. “The support that has been extended to me has been nothing short of incredible. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful educators and am proud to represent Pinkerton on this journey.”

Looking forward to her platform as the state's top educator, Powers is eager to champion innovative instruction on a larger scale. “I hope to continue to learn from other educators and support schools with co-teaching and embedding mathematics curriculum within CTE and other programs. I want students to learn math where they are excited!”

As the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year, Powers will now serve as an ambassador for the state's teaching profession and will represent New Hampshire in the National Teacher of the Year program.

Class of 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony!

June 12, 2026 | 6:00–8:30 PM | Memorial Field

Tonight, we celebrate the Class of 2026! Join us as we honor our seniors and recognize the hard work, memories, traditions, and lasting impact they have made on the Pinkerton Academy community.

Watch the Class of 2026 Graduation live on our YouTube channel (@pinkertonacademy1814)

View the Graduation Commencement Program 2026

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Senior Awards Night

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Senior Awards Night!

June 11, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | Hackler Gymnasium

Join us tonight as we celebrate the hard work, leadership, and accomplishments of the Class of 2026! We look forward to recognizing our seniors and all they have achieved throughout their time at Pinkerton Academy.

Watch Senior Awards Night live on our YouTube channel (@pinkertonacademy1814)

Pinkerton Students Recognized at Congressional Art Competition

Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Lora Kotlyarsky and Sam Pearson recently received honorable mentions in the Congressional Art Competition hosted by Congressman Chris Pappas. Both are students in Mr. Gonzalez's AP Studio Art class. Congratulations!

Pinkerton Academy Announces Class of 2026 Top 10 Students

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Congratulations to the top ten students from the Class of 2026!

1) Arav Mahajan

2) Boris Hadjiev

3) Yianni Kalampalikis

4) Olof Holmes

5) Rebecca King

6) Jack Welch

7) Brooke Benz

8) Alexander Foti

9) Sophia Cahoon

10) Alyssa Camell