We are excited to introduce our new staff members! They are starting their training next week, and we are looking forward to sharing all things RPS with them in the next few weeks through our staff meetings.
First up is Rick Gordon (pictured left), our new College Guidance Counselor. Rick will be working with our juniors and seniors as they make plans for life after high school. Before coming to Rock Point, Rick was the Founding Director of the Compass School in Southern Vermont. With his 20+ years of experience from Compass School, Rick knows the importance of a school culture where every community member can bring their best, authentic selves to the shared purpose of helping every student find success. Rick has worked with educators at all levels, including working extensively with schools and higher education on service learning. Additionally, he has long experience in experiential education with Outward Bound and Interlocken and has traveled around the globe leading programs for youth. With his rich background in higher education, independent schools, and experiential education, Rick is prepared to help our students create plans for their futures!
Jaime Toutant (center) is ready to join our Residential Educators to help create a fun, welcoming, and supportive residential environment for Rock Point students. Jaime grew up in Vermont and attended South Burlington schools. Dissatisfied with the lack of individual attention she received in a large public school, she entered the private education sector - first as a student, then an educator. As a practitioner, Jaime got her start at a local preschool, where her love for teaching was born. She went on to hone her administrative skills at Vermont Law School. As the inaugural manager of the Online Learning Program, she brought an aging course roster into the new decade. Jaime looks forward to drawing upon her diverse experience to help students fully realize their strengths and learn how to tackle their challenges.
Matthew Cook (right) is also joining our Residential team this year. As a military kid, Matthew grew up all over the country. Eventually, his family decided to lay down roots in Florida, where Matthew would stay to complete his college degree. After graduation, he decided to trade in his surfboard in Florida for a snowboard in Vermont. Matthew enjoys everything outdoors in his free time, often using days off to find new hiking trails, go camping, and play sports. He hopes to guide students here at Rock Point School to navigate and achieve both their personal and academic goals, with lots of fun and laughter along the way.
We can't wait for students and families to meet our new staff members on September 12th!