Elaine Loft, Staff Writer
At Community Meeting on December 8, Head of School Andy Chappell recognized and celebrated Derryfield employees who were marking their 25th year of service to the school: Chris Bissonette (facilities custodial supervisor), and Mary Perkins (school counselor).
“When we arrive to find a school with clean floors, tidy bathrooms, and straightened furniture, we have Mr. Bissonnette and his leadership of the nighttime custodians to thank. For the past 25 years, Mr. Bissonnette’s impact on Derryfield has been woven into the very fabric—and the very floors—of our school. He has been the steady, generous, quietly extraordinary presence who keeps this place looking beautiful and keeps all of us grounded. Colleagues describe him as “truly one of the best parts of Derryfield,” someone whose genuine kindness arrives to work every day right alongside him. He is a master problem-solver for many and the person who knows every inch of our buildings better than anyone else.
But our honoree is more than a custodian; his work ethic is matched by his warmth: always cheerful, always helpful, and often brightening our days with treats from his garden or something homemade—because, as it turns out, he’s also an impressive cook with a background in catering. To many, he is our kind, courteous “Mr. Clean”—but the truth is, he’s so much more. Mr. Bissonnette models care, loyalty, and pride in one’s work. Derryfield is better, brighter, and more welcoming because of him.”
After a standing ovation from the students, faculty, and staff, Chappell spoke about Ms. Perkins.
“I don’t think we should really measure Mrs. Perkins’ impact on Derryfield in years—though 25 is an extraordinary milestone—but instead we should measure her impact in the countless moments of comfort, clarity, and confidence she has offered to numerous members of our community. For a quarter of a century, Mrs. Perkins has been the quiet anchor and steady heart of our school, modeling what true care looks like in both spirit and practice.
In a place where every adult works to support students, Mrs. Perkins supports all of us with the depth of her presence. As one colleague beautifully put it, while we may all share in caring for students, Mrs. Perkins “clearly leads both in the amount of time she gives and the example she provides.” Her work is not defined by a job title but by temperament—by a natural gift for listening without judgment, guiding without pressure, and offering support that feels both unwavering and deeply human.
Her office has long been a refuge—a warm, welcoming space so safe that it often overflows with a “huge flock of kids,” students who gather not because they have to, but because they feel comfortable, accepted, and understood. Adults feel it too. She is a compassionate colleague whose presence steadies those around her and whose wisdom invites trust.
For 25 years, Mrs. Perkins has helped students and colleagues alike feel stronger, more confident, and, perhaps most importantly, simply heard. She embodies the very best of what a school counselor can be: a listener, a guide, a friend, and a source of calm in the swirl of school life.”
Chris Bissonette and Mark Perkins are emblematic of the extraordinary Derryfield School faculty and staff, whose diverse contributions serve to create an environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
