Her innate ability to relate to students of all ages, combined with her willingness and ability to take on new challenges at Calais, makes Ms. Maryann Braen a true team player!

She began her career at Calais twenty-three years ago as an elementary school teacher, followed by teaching history, leading ESY and Community Based Instruction programs. Now, as Calais’ Transition Coordinator for 12 plus students, she is combining her ongoing love for education with her interest in helping students explore and prepare for future career paths.  

Witnessing the transformation and growth of her students as they navigate their futures is the most rewarding aspect of her new role. Ms. Braen explains, “It’s incredibly gratifying to watch my students overcome challenges and discover their passions. Knowing that I played a part in their journey and helped shape their future successes is what motivates me to continue making a difference in their lives every day.”

As the Transition Coordinator, Ms. Braen’s workday is centered around empowering students to explore their interests, gain valuable experiences and make informed decisions about their future pathways. This includes overseeing The Calais School Work Based Learning Program as well as the Calais College Bridge Program.

Colleagues often describe her as proactive, dependable and optimistic. Students too, appreciate Ms. Braen’s positive and nurturing approach. “She is so caring to me always, and no matter what, she helps with anything that I am struggling with.” shared a current Calais student.

Ms. Braen holds Teacher of Students with Disabilities, and Elementary Education certifications and a CTE Certification in Family and Consumer Science: Child and Family Development. In her tenure as an educator, Ms. Braen has been recognized with various accolades including The Leitner Excellence in Education Award (2019) and an ASAH Educator of the Year and a Region II Finalist.

Her positivity and can-do attitude make her an invaluable asset to The Calais School.