Fiona ’25 shares a moment of celebration with advisor Lindsay Legare following her first vote in Bethel!

BETHEL — On November 5, Fiona, a senior at Gould Academy, experienced the excitement of casting her first vote in Bethel. Originally from Virginia, Fiona planned ahead, making careful arrangements to ensure she could register and vote in Maine, where she’s been attending school since ninth grade. Voting here, she explained, was a way to connect more deeply with her Maine community and have a say in decisions that affect her everyday life.

“Voting for the first time was a privilege and a vital civic duty,” says Fiona. “I was able to be a part of the greater community and do my part. I was initially nervous, but the local registrars were great and guided me through the process.”

As a member of Gould’s AP Government class, Fiona has been actively involved in studying the democratic process. Recently, she and her classmates presented to the entire school about the role of swing states, a discussion that reinforced the idea that every vote counts. When Election Day arrived, Fiona was so eager to vote that she showed up to her advisor meeting early, asking excitedly when they could head to the polls. Her advisor, Lindsay Legare, responded with a smile, saying, “Let’s go right now!”

“Lindsay does a great job creating a nurturing environment for her advisees,” says Dean of Community Life and Belonging Katie Stack. “They know they are supported every step of the way.”

Gould’s school community links students to valuable resources within the broader community. The caring, experienced teachers and staff aren’t just passionate about helping students learn more—they’re dedicated to helping them experience more. For Fiona, casting her first ballot was a memorable moment, made even more meaningful with the support of her advisor and Gould’s community spirit.