NEXT CHARTER SCHOOL - Key Persons
Allison moved to New Hampshire from Massachusetts in 2020 to focus on her education and follow her dream of becoming a teacher. Allison has years of experience working in special education and a passion for working with kids. She is currently pursuing her associates in English with the ultimate goal of receiving her masters in education. In her free time, Allison loves to read, write and hang out with her pets. She is extremely excited to begin her journey at Next! E-mail: awilkins@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Andrew grew up on the coasts of Virginia and North Carolina, earning a B.S. in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism from Radford University. Andrew served as an AmeriCorps intern working with the National Park Service before working as an Interpretive Park Ranger at parks such as Carlsbad Caverns and Yellowstone National Park. While working for the parks, he discovered his passion for environmental education and lifelong learning and decided to pursue his M.S. in Environmental Studies/Environmental Education from Antioch University New England in Keene, NH. Since graduating from Antioch, Andrew has worked for Mass Audubon as a teacher naturalist, Quarrybrook Outdoor Education Center as a science instructor, Windham Woods School as a middle school science teacher, and now here at Next as the life science teacher. Outside of teaching, he enjoys cycling, hiking, gardening, fantasy football, and hanging with his friends and family. E-mail: amacblane@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Andy earned a B.S. in Management, a B.A. in Economics and a M. Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Keene State College. He began his career teaching mathematics at Gilbert H. Hood Middle School in 2001. In 2007, Andy moved to Walpole and worked in the Fall Mountain School District as a 7th and 8th grade math teacher. Two years later, he moved back to the area and back to Gilbert H. Hood, teaching 6th grade math. Andy ran cross-country and track & field at Keene State and enjoys running to this day.
Michelle is a mother of 4, who moved to Derry in 1992, working as the head of mailing operations for Hadco where she worked for 11 years. She took several years off to pursue her career as a full time mom after the birth of her twins. In 2004, wanting to stay close to the children she worked in the Derry school system in the food service area. Her passion for children led her to working before and after care at EDMES where she is still employed. Realizing her passion to help children she embarked on a new endeavor with Next Charter School in 2018 as a paraprofessional. She has been volunteering with The Community Caregivers since 2009. She enjoys the outdoors, all sports and spending time with family. E-mail: mcolgate@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Angie grew up in a small town in central Maine. She earned her BFA in Graphic Design and minors in Art History and Dance from Plymouth State University. Following graduation in 1999, she moved to Southwest Colorado where she worked in Durango as a graphic designer. She later moved to Washington state in 2001 where she worked as a before-and-after-school-care supervisor for the Sammamish, WA YMCA. In 2003, she moved back to New England and joined the North Andover School of Dance where she has been an instructor of tap, jazz and ballet for the past 11 years. Angie has also taught art classes to students of all ages out of her home in Atkinson, NH. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, reading, dancing, singing, camping, hiking, kayaking and spending time outdoors. Angie loves working with students to help develop their confidence and creativity within the visual and performing arts. She is excited to be a part of Next. E-mail: agleckman@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Beth holds a BS in Business Administration from Merrimack College. She has 30+ years experience in various aspects of business including Budgeting, Marketing and Project Management. She is currently an Accounting Administrator at Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan in Bedford.
Beth is a big proponent of Mental Health and Special Education. She is currently a volunteer Special Education Advocate with PIC-Parent's Information Center in Concord and a member of NAMI-NH, the New Hampshire chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Health.
Beth has lived in Derry for over 20 years with her husband and 3 children, all of whom have attended school in the Derry School District. One of her children is a 2021 graduate of Next Charter School and her youngest is currently a Next student.
Cassie earned a B.S. in Youth Development and Education with a minor in Psychology from Plymouth State University. She comes to Next with well-defined experiences working with youth and families throughout New Hampshire. Cassie is passionate about helping students reach their educational, professional, and personal goals- every person deserves the opportunity to be happy and successful in life wherever they would like to be.
In her free time, Cassie enjoys exploring all parts of nature, playing and coaching volleyball, volunteering, and spending time with family. Cassie is excited to be part of the community at Next and hopes to empower students so they are prepared for their next step.
Andrew grew up on the coasts of Virginia and North Carolina, earning a B.S. in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism from Radford University. Andrew served as an AmeriCorps intern working with the National Park Service before working as an Interpretive Park Ranger at parks such as Carlsbad Caverns and Yellowstone National Park. While working for the parks, he discovered his passion for environmental education and lifelong learning and decided to pursue his M.S. in Environmental Studies/Environmental Education from Antioch University New England in Keene, NH. Since graduating from Antioch, Andrew has worked for Mass Audubon as a teacher naturalist, Quarrybrook Outdoor Education Center as a science instructor, Windham Woods School as a middle school science teacher, and now here at Next as the life science teacher. Outside of teaching, he enjoys cycling, hiking, gardening, fantasy football, and hanging with his friends and family. E-mail: amacblane@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Chris earned her B.A. in French from Saint Anselm College and her M.A. in Writing and Literature from Rivier University. Chris is a lifelong resident of Derry who attended St. Thomas Aquinas, Hood Junior High School, and Pinkerton Academy. She began her teaching career in 1982 at Pelham High School where she was a long term substitute, then a French and English teacher. She also taught at Trinity High School in Manchester, Saint Anselm College, Rivier University, Haverhill High School in Haverhill, Massachusetts, Job Corps, and Timberlane Regional High School from where she retired in 2015. Since retiring from teaching, Chris has worked as a paraprofessional for Pinkerton Academy and Sanborn Regional School District. Chris received the prestigious Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication to education. She is currently at Next Charter School where she hopes to help students with their academics and to foster their dreams. Chris enjoys landscaping, arts and crafts, beach days, and precious time with her family, friends, and dogs. E-mail: csmith@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Emily grew up on a small farm in upstate New York. After earning a B.S. in Animal Science from Cornell University, she spent several years working on tall ships, where she taught everything from oceanography to maritime lore.
She eventually moved to New Hampshire to pursue a Masters' degree in Environmental Studies at Antioch University New England and a science teaching certificate. She then spent three years teaching middle school science at Pelham Memorial School, where she also coached cross country and was the advisor to the hiking club, science club and winter running club.
Emily believes that kids who are active and engaged in their environment will grow up into adults who feel compelled to take care of it.
Isobel Graves is an alumni of Next Charter School and continues to be a happy member of the local community. She is always up for a hike, a trip to the ocean, a cuppa tea, or a good conversation. She plays music as often as she's able, most recently supporting Pizzastock and the JRF Memorial bringing awareness to mental health and suicide prevention. She is in the process of becoming a welder and will receive her certificate in 2022.
Mike earned his teaching degree at Plymouth State University. He has a strong background in reading, writing, history, and geography. He has been teaching for over 30 years; in fact, he started his career at Grinnell Elementary School in Derry, New Hampshire. He is a proponent for students to be actively engaged in their learning and believes ALL students have the potential to be successful both as a learner and a productive citizen of the United States. Mike stands by the "Four F's:" Family, faith, football, and food! In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and four boys, attending sporting events, walking in the woods, visiting New England beaches, studying, and working in the yard. He is eager to continue his teaching career at Next Charter School, where he builds a strong rapport with students. It is his goal to enable all students to be well rounded, educated citizens. E-mail: mmiloro@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Jen graduated from Granite State College with an Associates in Early Childhood Education. She comes from a background of being a Lead Preschool Teacher, in a daycare setting. Jen has worked with infants all the way up to fourth grade in before and after school programs as well. In her spare time she enjoys off-roading in her jeep, playing with her dogs and spending time with her family and friends. Jen believes we are always learning and can evolve with time. She is happy to be a part of the Next Community. E-mail: jmusto@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Job Titles:
- Derry Cooperative School District Assistant Superintendent
Joe earned a B.S. in Elementary Education with a minor in History from Boston University and a M. Ed. in Educational Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Joe was part of the team that founded Next Charter School. He served as a director from 2013-2022. Before working at Next, Joe was a teacher and assistant principal at Gilbert H. Hood Middle School, in Derry. Joe grew up in the community and currently lives in Derry with his family. Joe, his wife Christine, and their son, Jackson, all attended Derry's schools.
Allison moved to New Hampshire from Massachusetts in 2020 to focus on her education and follow her dream of becoming a teacher. Allison has years of experience working in special education and a passion for working with kids. She is currently pursuing her associates in English with the ultimate goal of receiving her masters in education. In her free time, Allison loves to read, write and hang out with her pets. She is extremely excited to begin her journey at Next! E-mail: awilkins@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Karen Woodes is a longtime resident of Derry. She and her husband Gregg have 2 grown daughters and a cat named Red. Her favorite thing to do is to spend time with her extended family. A perfect day for Karen is a day at the beach.
Kerry is a consultant in accounting, finance, and audit. She loves to go into different companies and meet new people, learn new skills, and help find solutions! Her son is a junior at NEXT and her appreciation for NEXT grows every year. She hopes to contribute to such a wonderful school.
Kerry-Lynn earned a B.A. in Special Education from New England College. She was a Special Education teacher at Gilbert H. Hood from 2005-2008. She worked with students in 7th and 8th grade. Kerry-Lynn also enjoyed coaching field hockey at Gilbert H. Hood. After the birth of her twins, she decided to stay home and be a full-time mom.
In 2016-2018, Kerry-Lynn returned to Gilbert H. Hood as a teaching assistant in the 8th grade. In her free time, Kerry-Lynn enjoys skiing, biking, and spending time with family and friends. She is very excited to be a part of the Next community and support students along their journey to becoming confident and successful young adults.
Kirsten Kortz holds a MA in Child Development from Tufts University, and a PhD in Education from the University of New Hampshire. She is the Director of Academic Policy, Curriculum, and Assessment at Northern Essex Community College. She teaches Psychology as an adjunct in the Early College program, which helps keep her in touch with the needs, goals, and challenges of high school students. Previously, she worked as the Education Director at the now-closed Quarrybrook Experiential Education Center in Windham where she got to know the students and teachers of Next. She is excited to grow that relationship by participating on this Board. Kirsten lives in Hampstead with her husband, two dogs, and two cats. She is an active member of the Greater Derry Track Club, with whom she spends many nights and weekends roaming the streets of Derry in brightly colored clothing.
Kristie is a mother of two grown boys and step-mom to three great kids, that have blessed her with four amazing grandkids. Before getting married and moving to Hampstead in 2018 she lived in Derry, graduating from Grinnell, Hood, and Pinkerton. She graduated Manchester Community College with an Associate in Early Childhood Education. Before starting at NEXT she worked at a local childcare center for 17 years. She has also worked with special needs preschool children. She looks forward to helping students become successful in both school and life after high school.
In the summers you are likely to find her next to a swimming pool but not getting to enjoy it. She'll be working on it for with her family owned pool business. Outside of work she enjoys camping, racing their Jeeps in the mud and on the obstacle course, working on cars with her husband, crafting, and sewing. An interesting fact is that some people call her a crazy chicken lady.
Liz comes to Next with 8 years of experience working with youth in the community. She was employed as a Juvenile Probation and Parole Officer for the State of New Hampshire in the greater Derry area since 2005.
Liz obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social and Rehabilitation Services from Assumption College. After gaining much experience working with youth and families, Liz discovered a more concentrated area of need to assist students. Following her interests, Liz returned to school and completed her Master of Education Degree in Counseling in the spring of 2013 and became a certified school counselor.
Liz enjoys being outdoors and active. She has played organized sports for most of her life, including collegiate field hockey. Liz is often finding new hiking trails with her dog.
Michelle is a mother of 4, who moved to Derry in 1992, working as the head of mailing operations for Hadco where she worked for 11 years. She took several years off to pursue her career as a full time mom after the birth of her twins. In 2004, wanting to stay close to the children she worked in the Derry school system in the food service area. Her passion for children led her to working before and after care at EDMES where she is still employed. Realizing her passion to help children she embarked on a new endeavor with Next Charter School in 2018 as a paraprofessional. She has been volunteering with The Community Caregivers since 2009. She enjoys the outdoors, all sports and spending time with family. E-mail: mcolgate@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Mike earned his teaching degree at Plymouth State University. He has a strong background in reading, writing, history, and geography. He has been teaching for over 30 years; in fact, he started his career at Grinnell Elementary School in Derry, New Hampshire. He is a proponent for students to be actively engaged in their learning and believes ALL students have the potential to be successful both as a learner and a productive citizen of the United States. Mike stands by the "Four F's:" Family, faith, football, and food! In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and four boys, attending sporting events, walking in the woods, visiting New England beaches, studying, and working in the yard. He is eager to continue his teaching career at Next Charter School, where he builds a strong rapport with students. It is his goal to enable all students to be well rounded, educated citizens. E-mail: mmiloro@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Paul has long been involved in the community and schools. He served as a police officer for 30 years, retiring as a lieutenant from the Derry Police Department. He then taught in the Derry School District for 17 years retiring as a career and technology education teacher. He has served as a scout leader, coached middle school cross country and track and worked to organized events for the Special Olympics. Currently he serves as vicar and presiding minister at St. Paul Lutheran Church. He hold a master's degree in education from Cambridge College and a Master in Divinity from Andover-Newton Theological School.
Champ comes to Next with a desire to help and support the community. He is four years old and loves treats! He is very excited to start his journey with Next students and staff!
Rob earned a B.A. and M.Ed. in English from Plymouth State University. He started teaching English at Mount Prospect Academy in Plymouth, NH in 2004, and was an adjunct faculty member at Plymouth State University and Lakes Region Community College until 2012. He also worked in college admissions and worked as an Academic Counselor at UNH before coming to Next. Rob enjoys being outdoors, preferably barefoot, and especially likes hiking and competing in obstacle course races. His favorite activity, however, is helping his dog chase squirrels. Rob believes that learning is an active process, that knowledge is an achievement, and that once people begin learning new things, they will never want to stop. E-mail: raquilina@nextcharterschool.org Phone: 603-437-6398
Job Titles:
- Next As an AmeriCorps Member
Zachary joined Next as an AmeriCorps member during the second half of the 2019-2020 school year. He decided to remain at Next for another year and is looking forward to continuing working with the staff and students. Zach moved to New Hampshire from New Haven Connecticut where he attended Southern Connecticut State University pursuing a B.S. in Economics. While in school he worked as a bicycle messenger which left him with an infectious love of cycling. He is glad to have the opportunity to work in an educational environment and hopes to build good relationships with the students and staff.