Welcome to our New Superintendent!

The SAU #53 Joint School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Bickford as the new Superintendent of Schools for Deerfield and Pembroke. After an extensive search process, Bickford was selected for her strong leadership, dedication to student success, and commitment to fostering excellence in education.

Bickford brings eighteen years of experience in education, having previously served as the Assistant Superintendent for SAU #53, Director of Student Services for SAU #51, and special education teacher for SAU #51, where she played a key role in fostering student-centered learning initiatives, competency based education, and inclusive education practices. With a deep passion for student learning, teacher support, and community engagement, Bickford is eager to lead Deerfield, Pembroke, and SAU #53 into a new era of growth and innovation.

Mrs. Bickford is excited to have the opportunity to strengthen community and school relationships, continue to foster collaborative practices between special education and general education, and create a proactive approach to education in SAU #53.   

Bickford will officially assume the role on July 1, 2025. 

Please join us in congratulating Jessica Bickford in her new role as Superintendent SAU #53!

Spotlight on SAU 53
  • In the coming months, students across the SAU will be traveling for fun adventures: DC Trips, Science Camps, Disney World Music Workshops, a ton of field trips... So much fun!
  • April 3rd, 4th, and 5th our Three Rivers School students performed Into the Woods, Jr!, on April 11th Allenstown Community School's production of Finding Nemo, Jr went up, on April 18th, Chichester Central School performed Finding Nemo, Jr as well, and on May 9th & 10th the PA Players will showcasing And Then There Were None.
  • The PA Varsity Boys' Basketball Team won the Division II Championship on Sunday, March 16th! Thanks to all who came out and supported them (including an amazing escort through our towns by the emergency service vehicles). Way to go team!
  • The skills program has released their Fall 2025 Newsletter! Filled with stories about their teachers, movie reviews, a piece about a recent dance, a story about their field trip, and even a recipe!
  • We also had the return of our SAU 53 March Professional Development Day on March 11th! With a HUGE turnout, teachers, paras, administrators, service providers, and educators across the five towns descended on Pembroke Academy to share their expertise and work collaboratively. With over sixty sessions, a keynote speaker (Sarah Sherman), and time to work with those who share roles, this event was a huge success. Thanks to everyone who participated and presented!
TLC Preschool Screenings

TLC Preschool is a special education preschool program for the children of SAU# 53 based out of the old Allenstown Elementary School at 30 Main Street Allenstown, NH.

TLC Preschool is looking for children that are not identified as having special education needs to join our preschool classrooms for Fall of 2025.

For more information or to register your child for this screening being held on April 14, 2025, please email Paula Dyrkacz, Preschool Coordinator, at [email protected]