SACS Journalism Students
Twenty-one years ago, Thomas Berry left Wellington Elementary to teach at Southern Aroostook High School. Looking for a way to utilize his skills, he took on the role as high school science teacher. 
Berry, a graduate of Houlton High School, attended Ricker College from 1967 to 1970. After his college years he pursued a career in radio and television broadcasting. “I was the Rene Clukey before there was a Rene Clukey,” said Berry. Realizing that broadcasting was not his forte, Berry tried his hand in sales for a few years before fulfilling his dream of teaching in 1980.
In 1968 Berry met his future wife Dianne Upton. They have three children: Angela, a graduate of Maine Maritime Academy; Nathan, who graduated from Husson College and is now a financial planner; and Becky, an RN graduate of USM.
While at SACS Berry served as class advisor for freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. He also was student council advisor for two years. Berry coached varsity girl’s basketball for ten years, taking the girls to states in 1992 and 1995.
When asked what he would miss, Berry said, “I will miss it all. Waking up and realizing I’m not going to teach is going to be a hard change for me. I’ve met many wonderful adolescents, and I’m going to miss seeing their faces everyday.”
Berry has plans for when he retires from SACS. He and his wife own a greenhouse and antique shop and look forward to working in them. “This will keep me occupied and out of trouble,” said Berry, jokingly. “Hopefully, a part time job will surface during the winter months.”
The students and staff at SACS wish Mr. Berry the best in his retirement. We will miss you and your culinary skills at the barbeque grill.
