Meet Kennebunk Elementary School’s new principal
Christine Boursaw Begins Tenure as Kennebunk Elementary Principal
Kennebunk, Maine – On Wednesday, September 18, the community of Kennebunk welcomed a new leader for its elementary school. Christine Boursaw, 53, officially assumed the role of principal at Kennebunk Elementary School, which serves students from pre‑kindergarten through second grade. The announcement followed the resignation of former principal Ryan Quinn earlier this year amid a police investigation that ultimately found no evidence of abuse.
Boursaw’s appointment marks a fresh start for the school, which had been on the cusp of change after Quinn’s departure. “I think you can’t really learn until you have a relationship with the person you’re learning from,” she told reporters, underscoring her belief that strong teacher‑student bonds are the cornerstone of a quality education. Her first day was spent walking the halls, watching classes in session, and joining students for lunch—a hands‑on approach she says “builds relationships.”
A veteran of two decades in education, Boursaw’s career has spanned elementary and middle school settings. She was honored in 2025 as Maine’s National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals for her work at Sylvio J. Gilbert Elementary School in Augusta. Prior to moving to Kennebunk, she served as principal at Westbrook Middle School for the 2025‑26 academic year. The California native relocated to Maine in 2020, drawn by the state’s vibrant educational community.
“Technology’s wonderful,” Boursaw explained, reflecting on the shifting landscape of digital tools in classrooms. “It just needs to be used really purposefully.” She noted that, over time, schools have begun to temper screen time in favor of more intentional, educationally driven uses of technology.
Beyond curriculum, Boursaw highlighted safety and belonging as top priorities. “Students, who now more than ever benefit from a sense of belonging, feel safe making mistakes,” she said. “From there, the actual reading, writing and arithmetic skills will only be easier to strengthen.”
The former principal’s resignation came after a police investigation into allegations that he was abusive toward a five‑year‑old student. While the investigation was closed with no evidence of wrongdoing, the RSU 21 board had already been exploring termination options. Boursaw’s arrival is seen as a chance to restore confidence among parents, staff and students.
Her family life also ties her closely to the community. She and her husband, Drew—also an educator working in Westbrook—live in North Waterboro. Together they have three adult children, two dogs named Leo and Chief, and a cat named Pippin. “Being able to shorten both of our commutes from our home has been a cherry on top of the kind, welcoming community that her family has now become a part of in Kennebunk,” a school spokesperson noted.
Within her first week, Boursaw has already been invited to several student sporting events and dance recitals, a testament to the enthusiasm of the school’s young athletes and performers. While it remains to be seen who will feel more excited—the new principal or her students—the enthusiasm is unmistakable.
As Kennebunk Elementary embarks on this new chapter, the community watches with anticipation. The school’s leadership has expressed optimism that, with a focus on relationships, purposeful technology use, and a supportive learning environment, the school will continue to provide a high‑quality education for its youngest learners.
