Although often unnoticed, Lisa Charland seems to be one of Northview’s hidden heroes. Many may not know what she does, but without her, the high school would not be the same.
Frequently, Charland can be found in her office behind the window across the hall from the guidance office. As the high school building administrative assistant to the principal, Charland has many responsibilities. Some of these include the announcements, maintaining Principal Mark Thomas’ schedule, signing dance guest forms and more.
“To try and encapsulate everything [I do] would be really difficult. I guess in a nutshell, I help run the building,” Charland said.
While Charland is essential to the high school, she does not have much interaction with students. For the most part, when she sees students it is typically to redirect them to Thomas or Assistant Principal Brent Dickerson.
“When kids come in to see me they are going to be greeted by somebody who’s truly and genuinely happy to see them. I love it when they come in because I don’t get to see them that often,” Charland said. “I love to meet as many kids as I can. I may not remember their names but just the interactions, that’s priceless.”
Although socializing with students brings her great joy, Charland says that her greatest passion is world traveling. Having been to 42 countries on 5 different continents, she finds enrichment in her travels.
“I have learned so much about the world in my travels,” Charland said.
Next on her list, Charland plans to visit Antarctica in December of 2020. Until then, Charland will continue typing away at her keyboard, maintaining all of her daily duties. Her job may sound daunting to some, but she loves it.
“I have the best job in the world,” Charland said.
