🦪 A legendary day in the kitchen! Executive Chef Rico DiFronzo from Boston’s iconic Union Oyster House stopped by to share his oyster wisdom with our Culinary Arts students. From the history of these briny delicacies to the art of the perfect shuck, Chef Rico gave a hands-on masterclass that left us inspired—and hungry for more! 👨🍳💥
Thank you, Chef, for bringing your expertise, energy, and East Coast flavor to our classroom. Our students are now officially oyster shucking pros! 🧤🔪
#CulinaryArts #UnionOysterHouse #WorkHardTodayCounts
Thank you, Chef, for bringing your expertise, energy, and East Coast flavor to our classroom. Our students are now officially oyster shucking pros! 🧤🔪
#CulinaryArts #UnionOysterHouse #WorkHardTodayCounts
Alumni All Star – Brian Nolan – Computer Information Systems, Class of 2019
After completing several industry certifications, Brian is now a Desktop & Inventory Support Specialist with Citizens Financial Group.
Brian’s favorite memory from high school was attending the SkillsUSA Nationals in Kentucky. “It strengthened my public speaking skills and sparked my ambition to start my own business in the future,” he says.
Brian shares that high school influenced his career choices in unexpected ways. After graduating, he second-guessed his path and switched from IT to spending five years in manufacturing. Eventually, he returned to IT, realizing he was simply burnt out and needed to rediscover his passion.
Senior Project Week was an incredibly influential experience for Brian. Seeing the variety of projects his peers were working on helped him develop real troubleshooting skills and taught him the importance of setting realistic timelines for project completion.
The skills and knowledge Brian gained at Tri-County helped shape him into the person he is today—from his work ethic to his technical abilities. He believes that at Tri-County, “you only get out what you put in, and what you put in truly defines your growth. The effort matters, and that’s what makes the experience meaningful.”
Brian’s advice to current high school students:
“After four years in the same career, burnout can creep in—I’ve felt it myself. Whether you choose to push through or pause to reflect on your true passions, make sure you're being honest with yourself. Don’t procrastinate, but also don’t ignore what truly drives you. Take everything you can from your time at Tri-County—the lessons, the growth, the connections—because it is worth it. I promise.”
#WorkHardTodayCounts
After completing several industry certifications, Brian is now a Desktop & Inventory Support Specialist with Citizens Financial Group.
Brian’s favorite memory from high school was attending the SkillsUSA Nationals in Kentucky. “It strengthened my public speaking skills and sparked my ambition to start my own business in the future,” he says.
Brian shares that high school influenced his career choices in unexpected ways. After graduating, he second-guessed his path and switched from IT to spending five years in manufacturing. Eventually, he returned to IT, realizing he was simply burnt out and needed to rediscover his passion.
Senior Project Week was an incredibly influential experience for Brian. Seeing the variety of projects his peers were working on helped him develop real troubleshooting skills and taught him the importance of setting realistic timelines for project completion.
The skills and knowledge Brian gained at Tri-County helped shape him into the person he is today—from his work ethic to his technical abilities. He believes that at Tri-County, “you only get out what you put in, and what you put in truly defines your growth. The effort matters, and that’s what makes the experience meaningful.”
Brian’s advice to current high school students:
“After four years in the same career, burnout can creep in—I’ve felt it myself. Whether you choose to push through or pause to reflect on your true passions, make sure you're being honest with yourself. Don’t procrastinate, but also don’t ignore what truly drives you. Take everything you can from your time at Tri-County—the lessons, the growth, the connections—because it is worth it. I promise.”
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🚀 Future-ready and cloud-powered!☁️
Our Computer Information Seniors are diving deep into Hybrid Servers and Microsoft Azure—gaining hands-on experience with the infrastructure that powers today’s digital world. From cloud architecture to real-world deployment strategies, they’re building the skills that tech employers demand.💻🔧
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Our Computer Information Seniors are diving deep into Hybrid Servers and Microsoft Azure—gaining hands-on experience with the infrastructure that powers today’s digital world. From cloud architecture to real-world deployment strategies, they’re building the skills that tech employers demand.💻🔧
#WorkHardTodayCounts
It's Faculty Friday! Today we feature our Speech-Language Pathologist, Jen Mogensen!
What inspired you to become a teacher, and how has your journey been so far?
I knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, but wasn’t sure which path to take. When I shadowed a speech-language pathologist in college, I saw how powerful communication is—and I was hooked. The field is so diverse, from the types of work to the settings, and I’ve loved every step of it. I especially love seeing students find their voices and grow in confidence. Now I feel grateful to have found a home at Tri-County.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your students might not know?
I love adventure! I’ve gone skydiving, zip-lining, snorkeling, and hiking in some amazing places.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of teaching?
I love spending time with my husband, our three kids, and our yellow lab, Warren. On weekends, you’ll usually find us at soccer or lacrosse fields, basketball courts, or cheer competitions. I also enjoy CrossFit, biking, cooking, and reading.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your students?
Success doesn’t come from one big step—it’s the small choices you make each day. Getting enough sleep, eating well, moving your body, asking questions, staying after school for help, reviewing your work, laughing, and spending time with people you love—those little decisions really do add up.
What inspired you to become a teacher, and how has your journey been so far?
I knew I wanted to be in a helping profession, but wasn’t sure which path to take. When I shadowed a speech-language pathologist in college, I saw how powerful communication is—and I was hooked. The field is so diverse, from the types of work to the settings, and I’ve loved every step of it. I especially love seeing students find their voices and grow in confidence. Now I feel grateful to have found a home at Tri-County.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your students might not know?
I love adventure! I’ve gone skydiving, zip-lining, snorkeling, and hiking in some amazing places.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of teaching?
I love spending time with my husband, our three kids, and our yellow lab, Warren. On weekends, you’ll usually find us at soccer or lacrosse fields, basketball courts, or cheer competitions. I also enjoy CrossFit, biking, cooking, and reading.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your students?
Success doesn’t come from one big step—it’s the small choices you make each day. Getting enough sleep, eating well, moving your body, asking questions, staying after school for help, reviewing your work, laughing, and spending time with people you love—those little decisions really do add up.
🎓 Thinking about your next step? Stop by the Tri-County Adult Education table at the College & Career Fair on OCTOBER 16, 2025! Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, change careers, or explore personal growth, we've got programs designed to fit your goals and your schedule. 💼📚
Come chat with us and discover what Tri-County Adult Ed has to offer—you might just find your next big opportunity!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Come chat with us and discover what Tri-County Adult Ed has to offer—you might just find your next big opportunity!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Today our Cosmetology classes had the incredible opportunity to learn from Stacy Simmons, a proud 2011 graduate and stylist at Sage Salon in Franklin! 💇♀️💫 She wowed us with a live demo of a signature teasy lights foiling technique, bringing professional flair and insider tips straight to the classroom.
Joining her was Sarah, her talented assistant and fellow TC grad from Auto Tech—proof that our alumni shine in every field! 🌟
Thank you, Stacy and Sarah, for inspiring the next generation of stylists with your skill, passion, and TC pride!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Joining her was Sarah, her talented assistant and fellow TC grad from Auto Tech—proof that our alumni shine in every field! 🌟
Thank you, Stacy and Sarah, for inspiring the next generation of stylists with your skill, passion, and TC pride!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎸🎹 Strumming into Thursday with our Basic Piano Keyboarding & Guitar class! Today, our talented students dove into guitar fundamentals under the guidance of Mr. Curran—our fabulous music teacher who brings rhythm, passion, and a whole lot of fun to every lesson. 🎶
From first chords to confident strums, these young musicians are making serious progress—and sounding amazing while they do it!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
From first chords to confident strums, these young musicians are making serious progress—and sounding amazing while they do it!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎓✨Don’t miss your chance to connect with college reps, career pros, and industry insiders at our College & Career Fair on October 16th! Whether you're planning your next steps or just exploring options, this is the place to be!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🛠️✨ From garden to workshop — Senior metal fabrication student Molly Luccini turned a weekend encounter with a Praying Mantis into a stunning piece of art! After spotting the insect with her mom and snapping a few photos, Molly was inspired to recreate it using her metalworking skills.
Crafted primarily from steel and accented with vibrant copper leaves, her sculpture captures both the elegance and edge of the mantis — all brought to life in record time and with incredible detail.
Creativity meets craftsmanship. Nature meets metal. We’re so proud of Molly’s vision and talent! 👏🦗🔥
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Crafted primarily from steel and accented with vibrant copper leaves, her sculpture captures both the elegance and edge of the mantis — all brought to life in record time and with incredible detail.
Creativity meets craftsmanship. Nature meets metal. We’re so proud of Molly’s vision and talent! 👏🦗🔥
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎒✨ Ready to explore your future? Join us for the Tri-County Middle School Open House on November 15, 2025, from 10AM to 2PM! Meet our amazing educators, tour the campus, and discover programs that spark curiosity and build confidence. 📍 Registration is required—secure your spot now at:
https://www. tri-county.us/page/middle-school-open-house
🧠✨ Teamwork makes the dream work!
Our Early Education students rolled up their sleeves and got creative—designing a literacy game for the preschoolers at Tri-County Children's Center! 🎲📚
From brainstorming to building, they put their collaboration skills into action and made learning fun for our littlest learners. Big hearts, bright minds, and a whole lot of teamwork! 💛
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Our Early Education students rolled up their sleeves and got creative—designing a literacy game for the preschoolers at Tri-County Children's Center! 🎲📚
From brainstorming to building, they put their collaboration skills into action and made learning fun for our littlest learners. Big hearts, bright minds, and a whole lot of teamwork! 💛
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎉 Seniors on a roll! 🚀
The co-op jobs just keep coming—and our Class of 2026 is crushing it! Seniors are stepping into the real world with confidence and style. 💼✨
Keep the momentum going, Seniors—you’re making us proud! 🙌
#WorkHardTodayCounts
The co-op jobs just keep coming—and our Class of 2026 is crushing it! Seniors are stepping into the real world with confidence and style. 💼✨
Keep the momentum going, Seniors—you’re making us proud! 🙌
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎉 Two weeks. 16 shops. Countless memories.
Our freshmen just wrapped up their Pre-Exploratory journey—visiting every shop program, asking questions, trying new things, and discovering where their passions might lead. 💡🔧🎨💻
To celebrate, we scooped up some fun at our mini ice cream social 🍦—complete with cornhole and a whole lot of laughs and new friendships. 🏐🎯👫Big thanks to our amazing Culinary students who served up the sweet treats with style and smiles!
Here’s to exploring, connecting, and kicking off high school with curiosity and community. Freshmen, and Vocational Teachers, you crushed it! 💪
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Our freshmen just wrapped up their Pre-Exploratory journey—visiting every shop program, asking questions, trying new things, and discovering where their passions might lead. 💡🔧🎨💻
To celebrate, we scooped up some fun at our mini ice cream social 🍦—complete with cornhole and a whole lot of laughs and new friendships. 🏐🎯👫Big thanks to our amazing Culinary students who served up the sweet treats with style and smiles!
Here’s to exploring, connecting, and kicking off high school with curiosity and community. Freshmen, and Vocational Teachers, you crushed it! 💪
#WorkHardTodayCounts
It's Faculty Friday! Today we feature Culinary Arts Instructor Natalie Demerjian! 🍪
What inspired you to become a teacher, and how has your journey been so far?
I always had a love for teaching and getting students engaged and excited for learning. I went to Minuteman for high school and studied Culinary. I stayed at the bakery where I did co-op for 10 years and was excited to have the opportunity there to develop and implement parties and classes for children. When I discovered my passion for baking, it was a perfect opportunity to teach my love of baking to students. I’ve had many teachers in my life that have made a difference and helped shape me into who I have become and I hope to do the same for my students. I have loved every minute of my teaching journey so far and know that I’m in the right place!
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your students might not know?
I love traveling and exploring other cultures. I have traveled all over the United States as well as Canada, England, France, Spain , Italy, Aruba, and Germany. I’m hoping my next trip will be to Greece!
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of teaching?
I enjoy doing arts and crafts. I make my own soy candles, bath bombs and cards. I also love to knit and am learning to crochet. I love going to NYC and seeing Broadway shows. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my cats, Mykonos and Venice.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your students?
Never give up and trust your journey. When things don’t quite go your way , and it sometimes seems like nothing is working out in your favor, just keep going. Things fall into place and everything will work out, it just takes time.
What inspired you to become a teacher, and how has your journey been so far?
I always had a love for teaching and getting students engaged and excited for learning. I went to Minuteman for high school and studied Culinary. I stayed at the bakery where I did co-op for 10 years and was excited to have the opportunity there to develop and implement parties and classes for children. When I discovered my passion for baking, it was a perfect opportunity to teach my love of baking to students. I’ve had many teachers in my life that have made a difference and helped shape me into who I have become and I hope to do the same for my students. I have loved every minute of my teaching journey so far and know that I’m in the right place!
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your students might not know?
I love traveling and exploring other cultures. I have traveled all over the United States as well as Canada, England, France, Spain , Italy, Aruba, and Germany. I’m hoping my next trip will be to Greece!
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of teaching?
I enjoy doing arts and crafts. I make my own soy candles, bath bombs and cards. I also love to knit and am learning to crochet. I love going to NYC and seeing Broadway shows. My favorite thing to do is spend time with my cats, Mykonos and Venice.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your students?
Never give up and trust your journey. When things don’t quite go your way , and it sometimes seems like nothing is working out in your favor, just keep going. Things fall into place and everything will work out, it just takes time.
Alumni All Star Janis Gaudreau! Janis is a 2016 graduate from our Dental Assisting Program.
Janis received a BA in Psychology from Keene State College, then went on to purse an MS in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience from the University of Rhode Island.
Janis is currently pursuing a PhD (2nd year) in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience from the University of Rhode Island. They research how socioeconomic status and disorders such as ADHD impact structural and functional brain outcomes during childhood development. After the program is complete, Janis plans to continue teaching undergraduate psychology and neuroscience courses while simultaneously continuing the impactful research they do either in industry or in an academic setting.
Janis’s favorite memories from high school come from the influential teachers they had. Janis said, “Ms. Caffrey, Ms. Remmes, Ms. Foley, Mr. Keaney, and many more had a long-lasting impact on how I directed my career and the paths I still choose to this day. They created safe spaces for me throughout my time at Tri-County and I am eternally grateful for the time they spent mentoring me.”
As a senior, Janis worked in a dentist's office, and it was there that they learned how to comfortably work with patients and coworkers in timely and stressful conditions. The endless skills learned from shop and related experiences they continue to use throughout their career.
Playing sports had a significant impact on Janis’s high school experience, those memories left a lasting impression on them.
Janis says the skills and knowledge gained from attending vocational school contributed to their success in their current career by training them to troubleshoot problems independently and think critically, which has been essential in navigating through their career.
Janis’s advice for current students: “Create big dreams and big goals, then go chase them. Keep showing up and putting in the work. The only thing standing in your way is yourself.”
Janis received a BA in Psychology from Keene State College, then went on to purse an MS in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience from the University of Rhode Island.
Janis is currently pursuing a PhD (2nd year) in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience from the University of Rhode Island. They research how socioeconomic status and disorders such as ADHD impact structural and functional brain outcomes during childhood development. After the program is complete, Janis plans to continue teaching undergraduate psychology and neuroscience courses while simultaneously continuing the impactful research they do either in industry or in an academic setting.
Janis’s favorite memories from high school come from the influential teachers they had. Janis said, “Ms. Caffrey, Ms. Remmes, Ms. Foley, Mr. Keaney, and many more had a long-lasting impact on how I directed my career and the paths I still choose to this day. They created safe spaces for me throughout my time at Tri-County and I am eternally grateful for the time they spent mentoring me.”
As a senior, Janis worked in a dentist's office, and it was there that they learned how to comfortably work with patients and coworkers in timely and stressful conditions. The endless skills learned from shop and related experiences they continue to use throughout their career.
Playing sports had a significant impact on Janis’s high school experience, those memories left a lasting impression on them.
Janis says the skills and knowledge gained from attending vocational school contributed to their success in their current career by training them to troubleshoot problems independently and think critically, which has been essential in navigating through their career.
Janis’s advice for current students: “Create big dreams and big goals, then go chase them. Keep showing up and putting in the work. The only thing standing in your way is yourself.”
📚✨ The Tri-County Pre-School has officially started — and the future is looking bright! Our Early Education students are stepping into leadership roles as they guide, teach, and inspire our youngest learners through hands-on activities, story time, and playful learning.
It’s more than just a classroom — it’s a community where big hearts and little minds come together 💛💙
#WorkHardTodayCounts
It’s more than just a classroom — it’s a community where big hearts and little minds come together 💛💙
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🩺 First Day of Junior Clinicals!
Our Junior class is officially kicking off their journey as Nursing Assistants at Countryside Health Care of Milford! After a successful orientation, students are stepping into real-world care this week—bringing compassion, skill, and dedication to every shift.
They’ll be working toward their state-accredited hours through hands-on experience at Countryside and theory-based learning in class. It’s the beginning of something big, and we couldn’t be prouder!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Our Junior class is officially kicking off their journey as Nursing Assistants at Countryside Health Care of Milford! After a successful orientation, students are stepping into real-world care this week—bringing compassion, skill, and dedication to every shift.
They’ll be working toward their state-accredited hours through hands-on experience at Countryside and theory-based learning in class. It’s the beginning of something big, and we couldn’t be prouder!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🔧🔬 Middle School Open House — You're Invited!
Join us on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Tri-County for an exciting look into the future of hands-on learning!
Explore our vocational shops in action, meet our passionate educators, and discover how Tri-County blends academics with real-world skills to prepare students for success.
✨ Whether you're curious about carpentry, culinary arts, coding, or cosmetology—there’s something here for everyone.
📌 Registration is required to attend
Scan the QR code or head to tri-county.us/page/middle-school-open-house to sign up!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Join us on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Tri-County for an exciting look into the future of hands-on learning!
Explore our vocational shops in action, meet our passionate educators, and discover how Tri-County blends academics with real-world skills to prepare students for success.
✨ Whether you're curious about carpentry, culinary arts, coding, or cosmetology—there’s something here for everyone.
📌 Registration is required to attend
Scan the QR code or head to tri-county.us/page/middle-school-open-house to sign up!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🎓 College & Career Fair Alert!
Thinking about your next step after high school? Come explore your options at the Tri-County College Fair on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6–7:30 PM in the Tri-County Cafeteria!
Meet reps from colleges, universities, and technical schools ready to answer your questions and help you plan your future. Whether you're dreaming big or still figuring it out—this is the place to start.
✅ No registration required
📍 Just show up, bring your curiosity, and take the first step toward your future!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Thinking about your next step after high school? Come explore your options at the Tri-County College Fair on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6–7:30 PM in the Tri-County Cafeteria!
Meet reps from colleges, universities, and technical schools ready to answer your questions and help you plan your future. Whether you're dreaming big or still figuring it out—this is the place to start.
✅ No registration required
📍 Just show up, bring your curiosity, and take the first step toward your future!
#WorkHardTodayCounts
🔔 The gong keeps ringing!
Seniors are locking in their co-op positions and the energy in the the co-op office is electric ⚡️ Every ring is a celebration of hard work, persistence, and the next big step toward the future. Whether it’s engineering, business, healthcare, or tech—our Class of 2026 is making moves and we couldn’t be prouder.
Your future is calling—and you’re answering loud and clear 💼🎉
#WorkHardTodayCounts
Seniors are locking in their co-op positions and the energy in the the co-op office is electric ⚡️ Every ring is a celebration of hard work, persistence, and the next big step toward the future. Whether it’s engineering, business, healthcare, or tech—our Class of 2026 is making moves and we couldn’t be prouder.
Your future is calling—and you’re answering loud and clear 💼🎉
#WorkHardTodayCounts
