About Beyond the Bell: Exploring Education in the Bangor School Department
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.
Publisher
Bangor School Department, Ray Phinney Sound Editor
Beyond the Bell Podcast: Best Buddies at Bangor High School
In this episode of Beyond the Bell, hosts Dr. Marie Robinson, Superintendent of the Bangor School Department, and School Committee Member Sara Luciano sit down with Bangor High School Best Buddies student leaders Lydia, Brennan, and Laci.
Together, they discuss how Best Buddies fosters meaningful friendships and creates opportunities for inclusion for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. The students share their personal journeys in the program, reflect on their experiences attending the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference, and explain how those experiences have inspired them to expand opportunities for belonging at Bangor High School.
Listeners will hear powerful stories about friendship, leadership, and the importance of creating a school culture where everyone feels welcome. The conversation also offers a look ahead at exciting events planned for the upcoming year, including awareness initiatives, social activities, unified programs, and the highly anticipated Best Buddies Prom.
Join us for an inspiring conversation about inclusion, student leadership, and the positive impact that happens when everyone has a place to belong.
1 Sept 2026
Attendance Matters: A conversation with Sarah Nelson Student Engagement Specialist MeDOE
In this episode of Beyond the Bell, we explore how student attendance is about much more than showing up to school. Attendance is deeply connected to a student's sense of belonging, engagement, and purpose. Joined by Sarah Nelson, Student Engagement and Attendance Specialist with the Maine Department of Education, we discuss how families, educators, and communities can work together to remove barriers, strengthen relationships, and create learning environments where every student feels connected and supported. From building positive attendance habits in the early grades to helping older students find relevance and purpose in their learning, this conversation highlights practical strategies and shared responsibilities that help students succeed.
15 Apr 2026
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.
26 Feb 2026
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!
27 Jan 2026
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.
23 Dec 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.
20 Nov 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!
23 Oct 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.
1 Oct 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.
5 Sept 2025
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.
Reach and audience
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Spotify
3.7 / 5
3 ratings
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