July 24, 2025
Greetings, Fine Students and Families:
It’s been a few weeks since I was invited to join this amazing learning community, and I remain
filled with humble gratitude. As I begin this new chapter as principal of Cape Elizabeth High
School, I’ve been carrying with me a line from Maine poet Gary Lawless, who lives over in
Nobleboro and used to read at the café my family once ran farther up the coast:
“ When the world is full of noise and motion , we turn again to the stillness, to the
quiet, to listen.”
I’ve taken those words as a good place to start. During this stretch of July, I’ve tried to do just
that—listen. Not only to what’s said aloud, but to the more subtle rhythms of Cape Elizabeth.
Like the patient understanding of the slower traffic flow due to the road work along Ocean House
Road, or the simple thank you expressed following the kindness of a stranger holding the door for
a parent with a stroller at Thomas Memorial Library. These quiet gestures speak volumes about
this community’s character.
As I continue to find my footing, I’m appreciative of every encounter and impression. For instance,
one slightly overcast day last week, I joined science teacher Amy deVries for a walk down the trail
behind the school that winds out into the saltmarsh. The tide was low, the air was calm, and the
moment offered a powerful reminder, which is that this school is rooted not just in tradition, but
in place. And earlier this week, I met another new colleague for coffee at a local café, where our
conversation naturally turned to what makes a school feel truly alive—relationships, purpose, and
a shared belief in young people.
And of course, there have been the students. One recent morning, while in my office, I noticed a
few members of the cross-country team gathering on the front steps. I walked out for a quick,
impromptu check-in before they headed out for a captain-led training session (I love seeing
students take initiative and support one another). I’ve also had the chance to meet students
working summer shifts with the school and town facilities team, helping prepare our schools for
the year ahead. There’s something grounding about witnessing that kind of hands-on
contribution—and their quiet pride was sweetly evident. I love that.
Each of these early moments, seemingly small but telling, has helped me begin to understand
what makes Cape Elizabeth and its schools so special. It’s not just about outcomes; it’s about the
intention behind them. It is clear that CEHS is more than a high-performing school. It’s a
nurturing nest where students are known, supported, and challenged to grow—not just as
learners, but as people. That kind of culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built, day by day,
through care, clarity, and community. I’m honored to be part of adding to this ethos.
I know that it will take some time to fully find my rhythm in this role, but again, for now, my
priority is simply to listen and learn. I want to understand what you value most about this school,
what keeps our students curious and engaged, and how we can keep building toward a future that
reflects Cape’s values while staying open to thoughtful evolution.
In that spirit, I’d love to begin getting to know more of you. Here are two open invitations:
Join me for a casual Ice Cream Social
Monday, August 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. - No speeches. No sign-ups. Just a chance to say hello, connect, and enjoy a frozen treat on a warm summer night.
Prefer to connect one-on-one or in a small group? -
Choose a time that works for you using this link: Schedule a Meeting Time
To those who’ve already extended a warm welcome, thank you. To those I haven’t met yet, I’m
looking forward to it. And to our students: I can’t wait to see what you bring to the new year
ahead. May it bring challenge, laughter, growth, and a few moments that surprise you in the best
kind of way.
Until then, summer on.
Dr. Joe (Greenberg)