Two new additions and the return of a familiar face make up the list of changes to the staff this year at the Currier Memorial School (CMS).
“Our staff makes Currier a special place for our kids,” says CMS Principal Carolyn Parillo. “Chris and Joy bring experience in the classroom and a love of learning to our school. And we’re so happy to bring Aidan back into the fold.”
Chris Foster is a veteran musical performer and instructor, who will teach music to Pre-K to 5th grade students. Joy Ray brings her impressive 28 years of elementary teaching experience to the CMS library. Last but not least is Aidan Sisters ,who returns after a three year absence to lead the school’s vital Pre-K program.
Chris Foster: Music Instructor
Chris Foster knew his career path at an early age. “The moment I picked up a trumpet in 4th grade, I knew music was my future,” says Foster. “I just loved it.”
His musical career took him on a cross county journey. Born in California, Foster went to school in Nevada and Texas, earning an undergraduate degree and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in music. Foster continued to perform and teach music as he and his wife moved first to western New York before settling in Vermont.
“I especially like teaching music to elementary students,” says Foster. “At that age, music is important in building social relationships and bringing kids together. Currier is the perfect venue for me to pass along my love of music to these kids.”
Favorite Food: Sushi
Favorite Sports Team: Boston Red Sox (“Even growing up out West.”)
Favorite Movie: Star Wars
Favorite Musician or Band: A tie - Prince & Miles Davis
Joy Ray: Librarian
After 28 years of teaching elementary students in the Greater Rutland County Supervisory Union, Joy Ray was ready for a change. “Retirement was out of the question,” says Ray. “I can’t sit still. I was looking for something new.”
She will be the part time librarian at the Currier Memorial School, a short ride from her home in East Dorset. She will also continue her work training student teachers at Castleton University.
The Currier library allows Ray to blend her love of reading with a growing interest in technology. “I started reading at age three,” says Ray. “I love the idea of putting books into the hands of eager young readers. We can also explore how to use the internet to safely expand the breadth of our learning.”
Favorite Food: Lasagna (“I love anything Italian.”)
Favorite Sports Team: All my husband’s favorite teams: Boston Red Sox and Duke basketball
Favorite Movie: Anything with Harry Potter
Favorite Musician or Band: Def Leppard (“80’s music is the best.”)
Aidan Sisters: Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Aidan Sisters stepped away briefly from Currier three years ago to pursue her interests in early literacy. One year in Bennington was followed by one year at Manchester Elementary Middle School where she worked as a reading interventionist for 1st and 2nd graders.
Sisters, a resident of Danby, now brings that added experience back to her home town. “I love the small school environment and Currier’s connection to the community,” says Sisters. “I already know the staff and the collaborative, supportive environment at this school. It’s a good place to be.”
Favorite Food: Wedding Cake
Favorite Sports Team: No team, just riding horses.
Favorite Movie: Jaws
Favorite Musician or Band: Phish (“Every show is different, and I’ve seen over 150 concerts.”)
(Photo above: Currier Principal Carolyn Parillo (second from left) welcomes three new staff members/ Aidan Sisters (left), Joy Ray and Chris Foster.)
Music Teacher Chris Foster, “Currier is the perfect venue for me to pass along my love of music to these kids.”
Currier Librarian Joy Ray points to her collection of Harry Potter memorabilia, “I love the idea of putting books into the hands of eager young readers.”
Pre-K Teacher Aidan Sisters, “I love the small school environment and Currier’s connection to the community.”