Gorham Middle School lost a beloved member of the staff on Oct. 21. Terri Dawson was the Technology Integrator at the middle school, working to help students and staff to be more comfortable and effective in 3D printing, coding, operating robots, working with drones and using AI ethically. She ran the popular iTeam Club after school with 40-50 students each Monday. She launched the hugely successful STEAM Night at GMS in 2023. Nearly 400 students, families and community members attended the event. The second STEAM night in 2024 was equally exciting. Terri was a tireless and creative advocate for learning, exploration, experimentation and creativity.
Terri was a kind and patient educator. Students were encouraged to stop by her room all day long to troubleshoot with their iPads or chat about new technologies. She was creative and exuberant in working with staff to build collaborative units and lessons. Earlier this month, Terri was recognized as the statewide Achieve Award recipient from ACTEM (Association of Computer Technology Educators of Maine). Winning this prestigious award showcases how dedicated Terri was to her students and staff, always cheerleading and motivating. Terri was always the first to hear about a new app, tool or platform and enthusiastically shared it with staff members. Terri’s Technology Tip was a staple of each monthly staff meeting. Our yearbook photos were always wonderful due to Terri’s willingness to fly a drone, climb onto the roof of our building or be behind the scenes at every school event.
To celebrate and honor Terri’s life and legacy, Terri’s family will be creating the Terri Dawson Technology Scholarship to be given to one or two students each year who demonstrate an aptitude and excitement for technological advancement. As the GMS staff navigates this difficult time, they will remember Terri for her fun spirit, quick smile, and the laughter she brought into their lives. She was a wonderful friend and colleague, and her impact on our school community will never be forgotten.