Northeast Land Specialists, LLC is a family owned and operated business focusing on affordable, residential land projects in southern New Hampshire.
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While asphalt and concrete options are great, there's something unique about pulling your car into a gravel driveway. Maybe it's because they add a touch of rustic charm to your property. Or perhaps it's the fact that gravel driveways fit well in a range of settings and landscapes.
The bottom line is that gravel driveways are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking for a durable, cost-effective solution. They're resilient, versatile, eco-friendly, and relatively easy to maintain.
With time, however, it's inevitable that driveways undergo wear and tear. Gravel driveways, in particular, develop potholes, ruts, and more. These issues can create a sight for sore eyes on your property. They can also create hazards that can damage your car. One wrong step into a pothole and you could trip, fall, and become injured — and nobody wants to visit Cornerstone at Hampton near South Hampton, NH because they fell in a hole.
Fortunately, quality gravel repair companies like Northeast Land Specialists can breathe new life into your entryway. If you're in search of reliable, experienced gravel driveway contractors in Southern New Hampshire with full-season warranties, look no further than Northeast Land Specialists.
- Call Northeast Land Specialists for Efficient Gravel Driveway Repairs at Affordable Prices
- Gravel Driveway Repair in South Hampton, NH
- Industry-Leading Gravel Driveway Repair in South Hampton, NH
- Top 3 Reasons to Consider a Gravel Driveway for Your Home
- Gravel Driveway FAQs
- Efficient Gravel Driveway Repairs at Affordable Prices
Industry-Leading Gravel Driveway Repair in South Hampton, NH
At Northeast Land Specialists, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier gravel driveway repair services across The Granite State. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our advanced gravel driveway repair process, which ensures your driveway remains smoother for longer. Unlike standard methods that merely fill potholes, our skilled team rebuilds your driveway from the ground up, resulting in a long-lasting, smooth, and compacted surface.
Why Choose Northeast Land Specialists?
Our specialized equipment, including the GradeMax gravel driveway grader and smooth roller vibrating compactor, coupled with our expert team, ensures a finished driveway that can withstand New Hampshire's harsh weather conditions. As a family-owned and operated business, we focus on affordable residential land projects, delivering personalized service and exceptional results.
We also offer additional clearing and land-related services, such as:
- Pad Installation
- Foundation Perimete
- Material Spreading
- More
The Northeast Land Specialists Difference
Why do so many of our clients send their friends and family members to our business when they need driveway maintenance? Ask yourself this — would you refer your family to a fast-food restaurant for a great steak or would you tell them to go to The Jetty in South Hampton, NH? Simply put, Northeast Land Specialists has developed an industry-leading gravel driveway repair process that sets us apart from the competition and keeps your driveway smoother for longer.
We understand that no two gravel driveways are exactly alike, and no two clients have the same needs. That's why we offer a range of choices when it comes to gravel driveway maintenance options to choose from.
Comprehensive Gravel Driveway Repair Options from Northeast Land Specialists
Affordable Reclamation
Our most affordable option for repairing gravel driveways involves reclaiming the materials already present on your driveway or parking area. If you've recently added gravel but it has become uneven or rutted, we can grind it down, level it out, and reshape it using a custom grader. We'll then compact it with a roller for a smooth finish and add additional gravel as needed after any potholes are eliminated.
Premium Enhancement
Our premium gravel driveway repair in South Hampton, NH, features a base layer of sturdy 1-1/2" crushed rock, along with a customizable top layer. This arrangement ensures optimal drainage and long-lasting performance. It is designed to support high traffic and requires very little upkeep over time. The base layer not only enhances the overall structure but also keeps the top layer securely in place for an appealing appearance.
Annual Maintenance Packages
Our yearly gravel driveway maintenance and service options provide cost-conscious ways to maintain a smooth and well-restored driveway. Effective maintenance of your driveway, parking area, and roads can help you avoid costly major repairs down the line.
Exclusive Full-Season Warranty
We take pride in our craftsmanship and offer a comprehensive full-season warranty on our services. For a fixed price, we guarantee that your driveway will be free from potholes and other surface imperfections until the onset of winter. In the unlikely event that any issues arise during the season, we will respond swiftly and effectively to resolve them at no extra cost to you. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we are committed to ensuring your driveway remains in optimal condition throughout the season.
High-Quality Gravel Driveway Material Choices
At Northeast Land Specialists, we offer an extensive selection of materials suitable for the top layer in your gravel driveway maintenance projects. One of the most popular options is our 3/4" crushed aggregate. This material showcases a striking gray hue, often accented with bluish undertones, depending on the source of the quarry. It not only enhances the visual appeal of your driveway, but also provides excellent drainage and stability.
Another excellent choice we frequently recommend is recycled asphalt. This sustainable option boasts a rich, deep brown color that adds a warm, earthy tone to your driveway. Plus, its composition makes it an environmentally friendly alternative, contributing to waste reduction while still ensuring a durable and attractive surface. Whether you prefer the classic look of crushed aggregate or the eco-friendly aspects of recycled asphalt, we have the ideal solution to meet your driveway maintenance needs.
Transforming Eyesores into Pride Points
Your driveway might seem like a straightforward, practical aspect of your property, but if it's bumpy, cracked, or draining poorly, it can become an unsightly nuisance. Even worse, poorly maintained gravel driveways can become a safety risk and a constant source of irritation. At Northeast Land Specialists, we believe that your driveway should enhance your home's curb appeal and overall functionality.
That's why we're passionate about tackling a variety of common gravel driveway woes, such as:
- Grading: Improper grading can cause water to collect, resulting in erosion and potential damage. Our specialists will evaluate your driveway and carry out necessary grading to ensure optimal drainage and a smooth driving experience.
- Potholes: Potholes are almost always an eyesore. When left untreated, they become more than a nuisance and can damage your car or even cause you to trip and fall. At Northeast Land Specialists, we fill in potholes and correct the underlying issues causing them, so you're not filled up with worry.
- Driveway Washouts: Heavy rainfall can lead to the erosion of loose gravel, resulting in unsightly ruts. To tackle drainage problems, we can employ materials such as reclaimed asphalt, which are designed to endure harsh weather conditions.
- Resurfacing: As time goes by, driveways wear down and lose their luster. Our gravel driveway company in South Hampton, NH can resurface and restore your driveway's aesthetic appeal and functionality. That way, your home value doesn't plummet, and your neighbors don't get upset about the eyesore next door.
Top 3 Reasons to Consider a Gravel Driveway for Your Home
We often get questions from New Hampshire residents asking about the benefits of gravel driveways — often before their house is built and during the planning phase. If you want a driveway that is both affordable and practical, gravel might be the way to go.
Gravel driveways are easier to install and maintain than other options and offer excellent traction and drainage. They help keep your property free from puddles and water damage, as the porous nature of gravel allows rainwater to seep through. This feature not only prevents pooling but also minimizes the risk of ice forming during the colder months. Plus, the rough texture of the gravel provides better grip for vehicles, making it a safe choice, especially if you live in a rural area.
If you're on the fence about gravel driveways, keep these benefits in mind.
Maintenance and Durability
Gravel driveways are known for their resilience and minimal upkeep. Gravel is sturdy and can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions. In contrast to paved driveways that develop cracks over time, gravel driveways typically remain in good shape with minimal maintenance.
Gravel tends to be more durable because of its interlocking design. Small, angular stones fit closely together to form a stable surface. This helps to evenly distribute the weight of vehicles, which does wonders for preventing potholes and depressions. The porous quality of gravel also enables water to drain through, minimizing water damage and ice formation during winter.
Caring for a gravel driveway is also relatively straightforward and economical. You can rake it, add gravel, or if you need gravel driveway resurfacing in South Hampton, NH, you can call trustworthy pros for help, like Northeast Land Specialists. When compared to the complex and costly maintenance of paved driveways, gravel presents a more low-maintenance alternative.
Customizable Options
Gravel driveways provide a wide range of customization options, making them a popular choice among homeowners. You can select from different types of gravel, colors, and textures to create a driveway that reflects your personal style. This flexibility allows you to design a driveway that enhances the overall appearance of your home.
When it comes to choosing gravel materials, there are plenty of options to consider, such as:
- Crushed Stone
- Recycled Asphalt
- River Rock
- Pea Gravel
- Decomposed Granite
- More
Each type has its own unique color, size, and texture; for example, crushed aggregate provides a more textured look, while pea gravel presents a smoother finish. With such a variety of choices, it's fun to create a customized driveway that enhances your home's curb appeal.
Eco-Friendliness
Did you know that gravel driveways are less harmful to the environment than other options? Due to their permeability, gravel driveways allow for better drainage while minimizing water runoff. Unlike paved driveways that create hard surfaces, gravel driveways allow rainwater to filter through, significantly reducing the chances of puddles and preventing water accumulation in surrounding areas. This feature also helps mitigate flooding, erosion, and the transport of pollutants to nearby waterways, making gravel driveways an eco-friendly choice. Gravel driveways also boast a lower carbon footprint than other driveways. The process of producing and installing gravel requires less energy and fewer resources compared to that of paved driveways.
Gravel Driveway FAQs
At Northeast Land Specialists, we're experts in all types of gravel driveway repairs. Customers choose us because of our unwavering commitment to reliability, punctuality, and hard work. We recognize the importance of a well-maintained driveway and know how stressful it can be to have a driveway that's barely suitable for use.
Our goal is to relieve that stress and provide peace of mind with efficient, affordable repair options. When you choose us, you can rest easy knowing you're in for a hassle-free experience built on expertise and open communication. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation or to learn more about our gravel driveway repair services in South Hampton, NH.
Before we start a project, our gravel driveway contractors in cityname, NH, will ask several questions to better understand the scope of your project. Some of those questions may include:
- Basic Details: Some of the questions we ask could center around the length and steepness of your driveway, the type of material it's made of (like asphalt, gravel, etc.), and the areas designated for parking. We might also ask for info specific to your home, like whether or not your driveway is shared with a neighbor.
- Water Runoff: Does your gravel driveway have any drainage issues? Are they minor or major? We inspect your current drainage setup to ensure that any water runoff issues are solved. That way, your driveway will have a long lifespan and major maintenance issues will be kept to a minimum.
- Your Vision: When it's all said and done, what goals would you like to accomplish with your project? Do you lean more towards functionality—like effective water management and a smooth surface—or aesthetics, like material finishes? Northeast Land Specialists provides a range of gravel driveway repair options to meet your goals and exceed your expectations.
When choosing gravel for your driveway, consider factors like appearance, durability, and climate. The right gravel can make your driveway eye-catching and helps ensure it has a longer lifespan. Size and shape are important considerations when it comes to choosing gravel. Larger, angular stones, like crushed stone, provide stability and durability by interlocking to form a solid surface for vehicles. In contrast, smaller options like pea gravel offer a smoother appearance but may shift over time.
Color and texture also matter. Gravel comes in a variety of colors, from earthy tones to vibrant shades. Select a hue that complements your home or surroundings. The texture—smooth or rough—can significantly impact the overall look of your driveway
Gravel driveway restoration is often necessary after severe weather conditions, such as hail, snow, ice, or heavy rain, negatively impact your driveway. While a single storm usually does not cause significant damage, gravel driveways can struggle to withstand constant rainfall or hail over time. As a result, even the most durable gravel driveways will require occasional repairs and maintenance. At Northeast Land Specialists, our highly-trained experts can come to your home and inspect your driveway to see if resurfacing or other repairs are needed.
Efficient Gravel Driveway Repairs at Affordable Prices
At Northeast Land Specialists, we're experts in all types of gravel driveway repairs. Customers choose us because of our unwavering commitment to reliability, punctuality, and hard work. We recognize the importance of a well-maintained driveway and know how stressful it can be to have a driveway that's barely suitable for use.
Our goal is to relieve that stress and provide peace of mind with efficient, affordable repair options. When you choose us, you can rest easy knowing you're in for a hassle-free experience built on expertise and open communication. Contact our office today to learn more about to schedule your initial consultation or to learn more about our gravel driveway repair services in South Hampton, NH.
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Latest News Near Me South Hampton, NH
South Hampton educator named NH Teacher of the Year
Portsmouth Heraldhttps://www.seacoastonline.com/story/news/2021/10/20/south-hampton-nh-educator-sara-casassa-named-nh-teacher-year/8536892002/
Portsmouth HeraldSOUTH HAMPTON — Barnard School teacher Sara Casassa was named New Hampshire’s 2022 Teacher of the Year Tuesday.“Sara is an ultimate professional in her field,” said Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner of education. “She knows how to create a highly engaging learning environment for students through literacy and technology. She is such an asset to New Hampshire.”Casassa has been teaching for the past three decades, and began her career at Barnard School in 2009 where...
Portsmouth Herald
SOUTH HAMPTON — Barnard School teacher Sara Casassa was named New Hampshire’s 2022 Teacher of the Year Tuesday.
“Sara is an ultimate professional in her field,” said Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner of education. “She knows how to create a highly engaging learning environment for students through literacy and technology. She is such an asset to New Hampshire.”
Casassa has been teaching for the past three decades, and began her career at Barnard School in 2009 where she has served as a language arts teacher, technology integrator and webmaster. She has a master of arts degree in English and a bachelor of arts degree in English and history from Boston College.
“There is no teacher who is more deserving than you,” SAU 21 Assistant Superintendent David Hobbs told Casassa during Tuesday’s special announcement.
Casassa was selected from more than 70 applicants, 28 nominees and three finalists, and will now serve as an ambassador for all of the exceptionally skilled teachers in New Hampshire.
“Most importantly, Sara loves her students. This is evident in the relationships that she builds with all students and their families,” Michelle Witt, principal at Barnard School, said in Casassa’s application letter. “Her sense of humor and easy-going personality make her a beloved teacher at Barnard School. She is fair, understanding and treats everyone with respect.”
Later this year, the semi-finalists, finalists and Casassa will be invited to a Leadership in Education Banquet to celebrate their accomplishments along with other distinguished educators in the state. Casassa will now be in the running for the National Teacher of the Year program.
“The selection committee was overwhelmed with highly qualified and respected teachers,” said Frank Edelblut, commissioner of education. “Sara’s commitment to excellence in education should be celebrated and honored, and we are proud to recognize all of her wonderful accomplishments throughout her teaching career.”
Christmas Tree Farms in New Hampshire: 10 places where you can cut down a tree in 2024
Catherine Messierhttps://www.seacoastonline.com/story/lifestyle/things-to-do/2024/12/05/christmas-tree-farms-in-new-hampshire-2024/76563157007/
It is almost time to decorate for the holidays, and for many, that means putting up the Christmas tree.For those who opt for a real tree, the first mark of the holiday season is finding the perfect one. Luckily, New Hampshire is full of Christmas tree farms stocked with trees in every variety, from blue and white spruce to balsam and fraser fir. Between gift shops and concession stands with holiday treats, many of these farms make the perfect place for a family-friendly holiday outing.Here are 10 farms around the Seacoast to ge...
It is almost time to decorate for the holidays, and for many, that means putting up the Christmas tree.
For those who opt for a real tree, the first mark of the holiday season is finding the perfect one. Luckily, New Hampshire is full of Christmas tree farms stocked with trees in every variety, from blue and white spruce to balsam and fraser fir. Between gift shops and concession stands with holiday treats, many of these farms make the perfect place for a family-friendly holiday outing.
Here are 10 farms around the Seacoast to get a fresh Christmas tree from this season.
Evergreen Ridge Christmas Tree Farm
Started in 1969, Evergreen Ridge Christmas Tree Farm offers cut-your-own and pre-cut trees. If you get cold while picking out the perfect tree, be sure to visit the gift shop for some free hot apple cider. Wreaths, Christmas ornaments and holiday trinkets are also available for sale.
When: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day except Monday starting Nov. 29
Where: 352 Berry Road, New Durham, NH
Tonry Tree Farm
Family-owned Tonry Tree Farm is back for its 60th year with a selection of spruce and fir trees up to seven feet tall. Along with trees, wreaths, decorations and snacks like kettle corn will be available for sale.
When: Friday to Sunday from Nov. 29 through Dec. 8 with hours from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: 314 Exeter Road, Hampton Falls, NH
Sidmore Family Christmas Tree Farm
This family-run farm has been providing quality trees to Deerfield for over 45 years. Sidmore has an assortment of tools free to use to cut down your tree, but asks that customers bring their own twine or rope to secure the tree to their car.
When: Nov. 29-30 from 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m.
Where: 198 North Road, Deerfield, NH
Indian Hill Farm
Originally an old farm house, Indian Hill Farm has expanded from a small backyard business to over 30 acres of trees with up to six different species.
Beyond trees to cut yourself, Indian Hill has a gift shop full of wreaths, ornaments and festive decorations.
When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday-Sunday from Nov. 30 through Dec. 15
Where: 161 Main Ave., South Hampton, NH
Noel’s Tree Farm
Noel's Tree Farm in Litchfield has 32 acres of balsam and fir trees to choose from, as well as wreaths, garland and other holiday decorations.
Want to make tree cutting a full day affair? Noel's has lots of activities that the whole family will love, including outdoor fire pits with marshmallows and hot chocolate, a Christmas tree maze, a petting zoo, free hayrides and visits with Santa every Sunday.
When: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. from Nov. 23 through Dec. 25
Where: 21 Charles Bancroft Hwy., Litchfield, NH
White Mountain National Forest
A $5 permit allows anyone to pick their Christmas tree in designated areas of the White Mountain National Forest, including alongside the Kancamagus Highway. Visit this website to see all guidelines and purchase a permit, and then simply show up to pick your tree at any time in the specified date range.
When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 31
Where: 71 White Mountain Dr., Campton, NH
Mount Hunger Christmas Tree Farm
Located near Concord in Henniker, Mount Hunger Christmas Tree Farm has trees from six to eight feet tall to cut yourself, as well as a selection of pre-cut New Hampshire trees up to 14 feet tall.
The farm's gift shop features crafts from local artisans, European glass ornaments, wreaths and handcrafted cuckoo clocks.
When: Thursday to Sunday from Nov. 23 through Dec. 15, with hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Cut-your-own trees ends Dec. 8.
Where: 349 Mount Hunger Road, Henniker, NH
Rossview Farm
Rossview Farm in Concord has a wide selection of fir and hybrid trees ranging from 4 feet all the way to 12 feet tall, each tagged with the exact price. Hand-decorated wreaths and homemade jam are also available for purchase at the Wreath Shop.
When: 1-4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday starting Nov. 30
Where: 84 District 5 Road, Concord, NH
DeMerritt Hill Farm
Located in Lee, DeMerritt Hill Farm first started offering cut-your-own trees in 2015, now proudly offering a wide selection of fir trees. Need a treat after cutting down your tree? The farm's store and bakery will be open with baked surprises all season long.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday to Sunday
Where: 20 Orchard Way, Lee, NH
King's Pine Farm
Over 14,000 sheared and pruned trees of all shapes and sizes fill the family-owned King's Pine Farm. Beyond trees, King Pine's gift shop offers wreaths, decorations and a variety of farm fresh goods.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday to Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday starting Nov. 29
Where: 185 North Road, Deerfield, NH
NH Senate candidate 2024: Brenda Oldak, District 23
Portsmouth Heraldhttps://www.seacoastonline.com/story/news/politics/elections/state/2024/10/04/nh-senate-candidate-2024-brenda-oldak-district-23/75391675007/
Portsmouth HeraldName: Brenda OldakParty: DemocraticOffice you are seeking: NH Senate candidateDistrict: 23, Brentwood, Chester, Danville, East Kingston, Epping, Fremont, Kensington, Kingston, Newton, Sandown, Seabrook and South Hampton.Education: Bachelor of science in nursing, UMass Amherst; master of science in nursing, Boston UniversityOccupation: Registered nurse, retired; Owner of Jewell Towne ...
Portsmouth Herald
Name: Brenda Oldak
Party: Democratic
Office you are seeking: NH Senate candidate
District: 23, Brentwood, Chester, Danville, East Kingston, Epping, Fremont, Kensington, Kingston, Newton, Sandown, Seabrook and South Hampton.
Education: Bachelor of science in nursing, UMass Amherst; master of science in nursing, Boston University
Occupation: Registered nurse, retired; Owner of Jewell Towne Vineyards, retired
Political or civic experience highlights: Appointed South Hampton welfare officer; founder and co-chair of the South Hampton Council on Aging
What are your top three priorities if elected?: My first priority is to reduce property taxes. High property taxes prevent young people from buying, renting, working, and raising a family in NH. We have the USA’s second-oldest population. We need teachers, contractors, health care workers, and a young workforce to promote NH business. We must reduce property taxes and make NH a more welcoming state for young, working families to ensure a dynamic economy. NH legislators have given tax breaks to the wealthy, but have forgotten the taxpayer.My second priority is to support public education. NH children deserve a quality education so they are prepared for the future.Finally, I will support legislation that makes abortion and reproductive care safe, affordable, and accessible. NH legislators should not threaten doctors for taking care of their patients.
What would you do to address the housing crisis in NH? Please be specific.: 1. Encourage developers to include a percentage of affordable housing. 2. Incentivize the conversion of empty commercial buildings into residential space. 3. Encourage municipalities to allow in-law apartments or accessory dwelling units.
Do you support NH's school voucher program, known as education freedom accounts? Why or why not?: I do not support school vouchers. School vouchers siphon money away from public schools and towns with little or no accountability or oversight. Recently, a limited audit found two applicants were admitted with post office boxes used as addresses, and inadequate documentation on financial eligibility. School voucher money can even be spent out of state - supporting another state's economy - and or on religious schools which is in violation of the state' constitution.
The school voucher system is grotesquely over budget. Plans were to budget $300,000/year. It is currently costing the state over $35 million a year. it was supposed to benefit those who couldn't afford private school, yet 70% of those taking advantage of this were already in private school.
The school voucher program is an attempt to defund our public schools. Inadequate public schools will make our homes and communities less desirable. Meantime, we still must still fund our public schools which means we are being doubly taxed. Our taxpayer money should be well spent and benefit our students, our taxpayers, and our communities.
Do you support changes to abortion law in NH? Why or why not?: I do favor changes to our abortion law. Lawmakers have been spreading mistruths about late term abortions to scare and mislead the electorate and sway voter opinion. OB-GYN physicians will tell you that late term abortions do not happen. Why make a law to limit abortions after 24 weeks when they're not done that late? What the lawmakers don't understand, though, is that their intervention in medical decisions is unneeded and sometimes injurious to patients and physicians by threatening them with imprisonment. Medical doctors must be allowed to make the best decisions based on best medical practice and what is best for their patients, not out of fear of imprisonment. Legislators are not trained in medicine, so they should not be making medical decisions.I will support legislation which allow ob-gyn care and decisions about abortion - remain in the privacy of the patient, doctor, and family.
Do you support changes to gun laws in NH? Why or why not?: Yes. Most gun owners and the general public at large favor sensible gun control, including red flag laws and background checks. High velocity weapons of war do not belong on the street. NH legislators have been acting in the best interests of the NRA and the gun manufacturers, rather than for the common good.
Do you support the NH law banning transgender girls from playing on girls school sports teams? Why or why not?: I do not support the banning of transgender girls from playing sports. The state Supreme Court has ruled this is discriminatory.
Do you feel NH lawmakers need to address immigration and border security? If yes, what would you do?: Immigration and border security are controlled by the national government. Former President Trump encouraged his followers not to vote in favor of a bipartisan law which would have funded border security, for his own political gain. Lawmakers have to stop kicking the can down the road. They must vote for adequate funds to address border security and immigration to manageable levels.
What else should voters know about you?: I am a retied RN and business owner. My professional experience entails CCRN Certification, Respiratory-Cardiovasular ICU RN, a Master of Science in Nursing, Clinical Coordinator of Nursing Education, Emergency Dept RN, Case Manager, Triage RN, and Certified Diabetes Educator. My husband and I founded and operated Jewell Towne Vineyards for 23 years. I’ve lived in South Hampton for 46 years, raised two children here, served as Welfare Officer, founded and Co-Chair the South Hampton Council on Aging.Prioritizing people’s needs and solving problems utilizing state and local resources is what I do. As business owners, my husband and I initiated New Hampshire’s wine industry, worked with the state Liquor Comission and lawmakers, helped establish 32 new wineries, and brought in tourism and revenue to NH. We developed an UNH internship program furthering young people’s education and professional development.If I am elected, I will work for the best interests of all of you and our neighbors, our taxpayers and townspeople and prioritize your needs. I will put people’s needs above big business, lobbyists, and culture wars - so that everyone of us will be able to “live our best life” in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire picks Hampton educator for Teacher of the Year
Carol Feingoldhttps://www.wickedlocal.com/story/record-citizen/2021/11/22/new-hampshire-picks-hampton-educator-teacher-year/8722126002/
New Hampshire’s 2022 Teacher of the Year teaches right next door at South Hampton’s small Barnard School. Meet Sara Casassa, 58, a language arts teacher and technology integrator.“I’m honored,” Casassa said, “but this is not something I’m comfortable with. I know amazing teachers. Being recognized as New Hampshire Teacher of the Year is an honor I am proud to share with Barnard School and the Town of South Hampton.”“Just to have others outside of our nice little community re...
New Hampshire’s 2022 Teacher of the Year teaches right next door at South Hampton’s small Barnard School. Meet Sara Casassa, 58, a language arts teacher and technology integrator.
“I’m honored,” Casassa said, “but this is not something I’m comfortable with. I know amazing teachers. Being recognized as New Hampshire Teacher of the Year is an honor I am proud to share with Barnard School and the Town of South Hampton.”
“Just to have others outside of our nice little community recognize that we have fantastic teachers in our school means the world to all of us,” Barnard School principal Michelle Witt said.
A resident of Hampton, N.H., Casassa received her bachelor of arts and masters of arts degrees from Boston College. She’s been teaching since 1989, and came to Barnard School in 2009.
“Before I started teaching at Barnard,” she said, “my family and I would pass the school every October to tag our Christmas tree just down the road at Indian Hill Farm. Driving down Main Avenue, the trees bursting with orange and yellow leaves, I admired the pretty white school building set back from the road. So I knew a little bit about Barnard School when over a decade ago I came to South Hampton to interview for a part-time language arts position.
“I remember being struck by the table in the conference room, which was made out of a door from the original schoolhouse. It said a lot to me about the importance of history, of roots, of connections, and of course, Yankee frugality, and the fact that there is no need for anything to go to waste.”
Barnard School is a very small school. It serves grades k through 8 and has only between 85 and 90 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 9:1.
“After I had been offered the job I remember coming to meet my first class later that spring,” she said, “the group of seven students sitting around a table, nervous and shy as I asked them to tell me about their school, to share what they liked about Barnard. They liked the small class sizes, how well the teachers knew them, the sense of community, and the friends they had made.
“Now, 13 years late as New Hampshire Teacher of the Year I have the privilege of sharing Barnard School with the entire State of New Hampshire.”
Casassa was nominated by a Barnard School parent and was ultimately selected for the top honor from among 14,000 New Hampshire public school teachers, 70 nominees, 28 semifinalists, and three finalists.
“I go to DC and get to meet the President and the First Lady, which is very exciting,” she said, “but it’s really about being a spokesperson for the New Hampshire teachers.
“New Hampshire First Lady Valerie Sununu is a former special education teacher and she’s really encouraging me to pick a couple of issues. She wants to give me a voice.”
Casassa said her top issue is early literacy and reading.
“Early education, before kids get to school, getting books into kids’ hands from birth,” she said. “Early literacy leads to both academic and career success.
“I also want to highlight teachers. A lot of people have been critical of teachers and education. How do you celebrate the successes? How can I celebrate all the wonderful teachers and amazing things they are doing in our school, our district, and our state.”
Her final issue is how to attract and retain teachers.
“I feel COVID did force us to catch up with technology in schools and getting devices in all kids’ hands,” she said, “and that’s a good thing, but we do still need to keep training teachers. Just because they did it last year doesn’t mean they feel comfortable with this medium.”
Casassa is one of the fortunate teachers who felt comfortable with technology from the start.
“When I came here in 2009, there was a great computer lab,” she said. “There was this class called Language Arts Technology and I was supposed to integrate technology into the class.
“I rose to the challenge. I started learning different things about technology. A lot of it was self-taught and taking technology workshops. I just took to it. It was easy for me. It was fun to try different things and the kids loved it. I guess I had an aptitude for it. It just took off. The town and school supported technology and we had wonderful resources.”
When COVID hit, Barnard School was prepared.
“When we went remote in March of 2020, I had already put a lot of those technology parts in place,” she said. “We shut down Friday the 13th and the next week we had schedules and classrooms set up virtually.
“All the teachers worked so hard. From the get-go these kids were receiving instruction online with all their teachers. It was very impressive and the parents were very grateful. I think that’s one of the main reasons I was nominated for Teacher of the Year.”
That might be one of the reasons, but certainly not the main one.
“There are so many levels of things that she has to pull together to create the magic that she does in your community,” Sununu said at a school gathering celebrating Casassa’s honor.
“She really looks at her students as individuals,” Witt said, “and she provides tailored instruction for each of those students.”
Those students love her, proudly holding up signs that read, “Thank you for always being there,” “She’s awesome,” “You’re the best!” and “We Love You.”
The feeling is mutual.
“We have the best students in the State of New Hampshire,” Casassa said. “They are curious, engaged, caring, and fun. I love coming to school each day, and love learning with and from them.”
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