WALDOBORO — On May 16, Principal of Medomak Valley High School Linda Pease was recognized as the 2023-2024 Outstanding School Administrator of the Year by the Maine Music Educators Association at their annual Spring conference in Orono.   

Nominated by music teachers Peter Stuart and Jonathan Baldwain, this award recognizes administrative support for Music and Fine Arts education by demonstrating active and ongoing support for balanced Fine Arts programs. 

Linda Pease is an exceptional individual who views music education and the performing arts as a vital and necessary part of the Medomak Valley High School community. She embodies the essence of passionate advocacy, tireless support, and unwavering commitment to student and staff success in the performing arts.

Drawing upon a lifetime of being a musician herself, Mrs. Pease's mentorship extends beyond strictly academics. Individual talents and interests are encouraged, instilling confidence in students to pursue their passions in the performing arts. 

Under her leadership, both the music and theater curriculum have expanded with new course offerings. In addition, Mrs. Pease fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the performing arts community. She actively engages with her educators, fostering collaboration and providing invaluable curriculum input. Mrs. Pease often says that “Music is Life”.  When the noises of the front office become overwhelming, Mrs. Pease can often be found in the back of the music room to sit in on a few minutes of a rehearsal to regain her center. Music is her calming force.  

Linda exudes positivity and support, attending every musical, play, chorus concert, and band performance with genuine enthusiasm. Her presence in the front row, cheering and applauding, coupled with personalized gestures such as homemade posters and heartfelt praise, leaves an indelible mark on students, affirming their talents and contributions. 

Anna Weber, Senior at Medomak, says, “I have been in band and/or chorus since I was a freshman, and at every concert, she can be heard clapping and cheering after every song, and is even known to dance in her seat as we play and sing. The energy and support she brings to our performances mean so much. One of the joys of performing for me is knowing I can look out into the audience and see her smiling.”

Junior Kelsey Payson adds, “these personal interactions are special and make students feel seen and acknowledged…Mrs. Pease constantly makes me feel like my contributions to the school are extraordinary.” 

In the face of adversity, Mrs. Pease remains a beacon of hope and resilience. During the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked tirelessly to ensure the continuity of music programs, securing resources and adapting performance spaces to prioritize safety without compromising artistic expression. Her unwavering dedication to music education shines through, ensuring that students continue to thrive despite the constraints imposed by external circumstances. Without her support and guidance it is difficult to say where the Medomak Valley’s performing arts program would be today. 

Her vision, community engagement, and commitment to student success has inspired students to take risks and develop what she believes to be a lifelong love of the performing arts. The Medomak Valley community is proud to honor Mrs. Linda Pease with this prestigious award.