There were going to be some adjustments for Marguerite Rinaldi.

Wiscasset High School’s new physical education teacher was, after all, coming from a large school in central New Hampshire to a small school on the coast of Maine.

It's that small, close-knit feeling that is helping her along as she adjusts to a new position.

“I already know half the population,” she said. “It's definitely different, but I think 'We are small, but we are mighty' portrays these kids well. They all seem to give it their all.”

Rinaldi lived in Bucksport, Maine, when she was a child and recently moved back to Maine after a long spell in the Granite State.

She attended Keene State College in Keene, New Hampshire then went to New England College in Henniker, New Hampshire.

From there she taught for 12 years at John Stark High School in Weare, New Hampshire, which is south of Concord.

John Stark High School also boasted approximately 850 students, so being at a more intimate setting such as Wiscasset High School (population: approximately 200 students) has been an adjustment, Rinaldi said.

“It's definitely advantageous for me, because I get more individual time with each student,” she said. “If I can see them for multiple classes, it helps me find something they'll love, and it also helps them realize my expectations.”

Finding that next step, that next activity after high school is what Rinaldi hopes to help her students with. She said she wants to instill a love of movement, regardless of what sport or activity it is.

“There are so many different activities and I just hope to bring excitement,” she said. “I want the kids to find their niche, whether it's with a traditional or non-traditional sport, and I want them to be excited about it.”

Rinaldi, who is a white water rafting guide in the summer, said she also wants to instill a routine that students can take with them after they graduate.

“I want them to be able to maintain a fitness level or a routine even after they leave,” she said. “But really, I want them to have fun. I know sometimes kids think 'I have to go to gym class.' I want them to want to be here. I want them to have fun.”