Hampton School District Recognizes Staff Members Upon Retirement

HAMPTON — Superintendent Lois Costa and the Hampton School District would like to recognize and celebrate several staff members upon their retirement. 

The five individuals, Barbara Garand, Ann Hagerstrom, Leslie Hartley, Bridget Hughes, and Dr. Les Masterman, concluded their time with the district on Tuesday, June 20, the last day of school for Hampton staff.

“Congratulations to these five outstanding individuals on their retirement,” said Superintendent Costa. “Their contributions to our school community have been invaluable. All of us within the district wish them well!”

Barbara Garand

Barbara Garand spent 38 years as an early child education teacher at Centre School. Throughout her time as an educator, she was known for providing a nourishing environment and gently guiding her students. 

Garand took part in a variety of committee work including curriculum work on language arts, mathematics, and social development, Sunshine and Enrichment committees, and multi-age study groups. She also participated in the UNH initiative and play-based learning and focused on differentiated instruction and flexible grouping throughout her teaching career. 

Ann Hagerstrom

Ann Hagerstrom has worked as a paraprofessional in the district for 18 years. Hagerstrom started at Adeline C. Marston School, and in 2014 moved to Hampton Academy. She was known to consistently exceed expectations in all areas. 

While working one-on-one with students, Hagerstrom always displayed a positive attitude and interacted with them in a compassionate and respectful manner. Hagerstrom was excellent at recognizing students’ strengths and abilities, and worked toward fostering independence, socialization, and self-esteem. 

Leslie Hartley 

Leslie Hartley has served as a paraprofessional at Centre School for the past 19 years. Hartley was known for being extremely patient with her students, and always demonstrated her deep knowledge of curriculum concepts at all grade levels. 

Hartley’s effective communication skills and her flexibility were assets to the Hampton school community. She built many incredible relationships with her students and has been a great role model for all within the district.

Bridget Hughes

Bridget Hughes has retired after 45 years of working in education. She was hired as an educational associate in special education at Centre School, and in 2019 was named the Interim Assistant Principal at Hampton Academy. 

Throughout her time in the district, she demonstrated her passion for education, and her love for her students, staff, and community members daily. 

Dr. Les Masterman

Dr. Les Masterman spent 14 years working as a psychologist within the Hampton School District. Masterman initially split his time between Adeline C. Marston School, Centre School, and Hampton Academy, where he was responsible for student evaluations, assessments, therapy sessions, and observation. For the last four years, he worked full-time at Hampton Academy. 

He was a highly valuable resource for the students, parents, staff, and community members of Hampton. He helped many people navigate through a variety of psychological and mental health issues. He served as a key member of the district’s Mental Health Team, and always acted as an advocate for all students.