Beyond the Bell: Exploring Education in the Bangor School Department

Bangor School Department, Ray Phinney Sound Editor
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This is a space where we’ll dive deep into the heart of our schools, explore innovative educational practices, and highlight the incredible stories that make our community unique. Each episode will feature dynamic guests, including teachers, school staff, community members, and experts who will share their insights and experiences. From school psychologists to coaches and educational leaders, we’ll have voices that bring valuable perspectives on education today.

Episodes

  1. Apr 15

    Beyond the Bell: Exploring School Gardens with the Bangor Garden Network

    What happens when a school yard becomes a living classroom? In this episode of Beyond the Bell, Dr. Marie Robinson and Sara Luciano welcome members of the Bangor School Garden Network to explore why school gardens matter and what’s growing across the Bangor School Department. Together, they discuss how gardens go far beyond vegetables—creating meaningful connection to nature, strengthening belonging and teamwork, and helping students build curiosity, persistence, and confidence.

    30 min

  2. Feb 26

    Purposeful Play in Action: A conversation with Emily Robinson and Sarah Cousins

    Join Dr. Marie Robinson and School Committee member Sara Luciano in this enlightening episode of Beyond the Bell. Delve into the world of purposeful play in education as they engage with educators Emily Robinson and Sarah Cousins, who share innovative strategies for integrating play into classroom instruction. Discover how their approaches foster creativity, collaboration, and essential skills in students, making learning both fun and effective. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice that can transform educational experiences!

    20 min

  3. Jan 27

    Exploring Purposeful Play: A conversation with LeeAnn Larson, Director of Early Learning from the Maine Department of Education

    On this episode of Beyond the Bell, we have a very special guest with us, LeeAnn Larsen, the Director of Early Learning at the Maine Department of Education. We’re excited to explore an essential concept for our children’s development—purposeful play. This episode will uncover what purposeful play is, why it matters, and how it can be integrated into early education. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or just someone interested in child development, you won’t want to miss this enlightening discussion.

    28 min

  4. 12/23/2025

    Beyond the Bell: Collaboration in the Community, A conversation with Tracy Willette, Director of Bangor Parks & Recreation

    Welcome to "Beyond the Bell," where we explore vital topics impacting our schools and community. In this episode, Superintendent Marie Robinson and School Committee member Sara Luciano are joined by Tracy Willette, the Director of Parks and Recreation. Together, they discuss the essential collaboration between Bangor schools and the Parks and Recreation department, highlighting shared infrastructures like Cameron Stadium and school gyms that facilitate community programs. Listeners will learn about the variety of resources available for families through Parks and Rec. Tracy explains how school cancellations due to weather impact recreational programming and the importance of timely communication to support families. Tune in to discover how collaboration enhances resources, support, and opportunities for families in Bangor.

    10 min

  5. 11/20/2025

    Beyond the Bell - Empowering Students Through Mentorship: Insights from Principal Richard Fournier

    In this episode of Beyond the Bell, join Dr. Marie Robinson and School Committee member Sara Luciano as they welcome Principal Richard Fournier from Fruit Street Elementary. Together, they delve into the transformative impact of mentorship on student success. Principal Fournier shares heartwarming stories of student progress and discusses the collaborative efforts with other schools to expand the reading program and train new mentors. Principal Fournier provides valuable insights on how parents can address concerns, engage with teachers, and become active members of the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Don't miss their discussion on upcoming events, including the Parent-Teacher Conferences and the exciting winter concert series!

    12 min

  6. 10/23/2025

    Beyond The Bell: Accessing Health Care Through School-Based Services

    On this episode of Beyond the Bell, we have some fantastic guests from the PCHC team who provide essential health services right within our schools. Join us as we talk about how the clinic staff are reducing barriers to health care access and how you can become involved.

    10 min

  7. 10/01/2025

    The Belonging Campaign

    Today, we have a special treat for you as we sit down with Dr. Jordan Fearon, the Bangor School Department Psychologist, and Ray Phinney, our Director of Community Outreach. In this episode, we’ll delve into the vital role of mental health in our schools and how community outreach initiatives can foster a supportive environment for our students. Dr. Fearon will share insights on the psychological challenges students face today, while Director Phinney will discuss the importance of community involvement in creating solutions.

    17 min

  8. Season 1, Episode 1 Trailer

    Beyond the Bell: Introduction

    Hosted by Dr. Marie Robinson, Superintendent of the Bangor School Department and Sara Luciano, Chair of the Bangor School Committee. This is a space where we’ll dive deep into the heart of our schools, explore innovative educational practices, and highlight the incredible stories that make our community unique. Each episode will feature dynamic guests, including teachers, school staff, community members, and experts who will share their insights and experiences. From school psychologists to coaches and educational leaders, we’ll have voices that bring valuable perspectives on education today.

    2 min

Trailer

About

This is a space where we’ll dive deep into the heart of our schools, explore innovative educational practices, and highlight the incredible stories that make our community unique. Each episode will feature dynamic guests, including teachers, school staff, community members, and experts who will share their insights and experiences. From school psychologists to coaches and educational leaders, we’ll have voices that bring valuable perspectives on education today.

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