This is Mr. Follansbee’s second year teaching History at Kennebunk, and he previously taught at Massabesic. Fred Follansbee was raised by his parents in South Portland with his sister, Julia. He attended Muhlenberg College in Pennsylvania. After school he joined the Peace Corps, where he was sent to Zambia to build fish farms. Mr. Follansbee helped to bring alternative food sources to families and broadening his understanding of what life is like in developing countries. Each year in his class, one block is dedicated to “Africa Day,” where Mr. Follansbee explains his work in the Peace Corps, tells stories, and shows pictures. He sees this as an opportunity to teach his students about fun choices for after graduating school and share his life changing experience. He explained that one goal of the Peace Corps. is to teach other countries about America, and teach Americans about other countries.

He did not always think he wanted to be a teacher. Originally he thought he wanted to work for a Non-Governmental Organization in Washington D. C. In addition to being a dedicated teacher, Mr. Follansbee is also a devoted father to a 13 month old baby girl named Charlotte. He describes that parenthood has absolutely changed his life. In his free time he enjoys camping, running, and watching/playing baseball. His one piece of advice to students is “Even if it’s just for a little while, experience life outside of Maine and the country.”