On September 27, 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to once again be honored at WaterFire in Providence as a finalist for Rhode Island Teacher of the Year. The evening was nothing short of magical—surrounded by colleagues, friends, and family, with the glow of firelight reflecting on the water, I felt the deep connection we all share as educators in this small but mighty state.
As a resident of Narragansett, it was especially meaningful for me to see the Narragansett High School band lead off the procession. Their energy and spirit set the perfect tone for the night. I was equally proud to celebrate Sarah Dully, the 2025–2026 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year, who is an English teacher at Narragansett High School. To witness both the band and Sarah at the forefront of this statewide celebration was a moment of true hometown pride.
This year is especially meaningful, as I am celebrating my 46th year in education. Every September, I welcome the school year as a new beginning—almost like having two New Years to mark the passing of time. That sense of renewal and possibility keeps me inspired, even after decades of service.
My Journey in Education
My path into education was not straightforward. Growing up in New York City, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. But when I entered public college, the city was in the midst of an economic crisis. Teaching jobs were scarce, and I was advised not to major in education. Instead, I pursued speech-language pathology, a profession I am deeply grateful to have embraced.
Over the years, I have worked primarily in pediatrics and most often within the school system. My work as a speech and language pathologist has allowed me to support children not only in developing communication skills but also in discovering their own voices, confidence, and potential. I often say I have had the best of both worlds—rooted in education while bringing the lens of therapy, language, and literacy to every child I serve.
Gratitude for the Journey
My year representing East Greenwich as Teacher of the Year has been nothing short of amazing. Each month, I joined fellow district Teachers of the Year from across Rhode Island to learn together, reflect, and envision the future of education. Those gatherings were both energizing and inspiring—reminders that, while we all come from different districts and backgrounds, we share the same deep commitment to students.
One message that was emphasized throughout our meetings was that the application process for State Teacher of the Year is valuable in itself. Even if you are not ultimately selected, it provides an opportunity for reflection, growth, and a deeper understanding of your own journey as an educator. That rang especially true for me.
At first, I was not told that I would be a candidate to apply for the state honor. But I am very grateful that my voice was heard and that I was given the opportunity to move forward. That chance allowed me to take part in a rigorous process of projects and interviews, to refine my message, and to share my perspective with others. Being able to make it through many rounds of consideration was, in itself, a privilege and a tremendous professional experience for which I am deeply thankful.
Looking Ahead
Though I am nearing what many might call the “retirement years,” I feel strongly that my journey as an educator is not finished. I will continue to:
- Learn – because education is ever-evolving, and there is always more to know.
- Listen – to students, to colleagues, to families, and to the broader community.
- Grow – by seeking new opportunities to expand my perspective and skills.
- Lead – not by standing in front, but by walking beside others, raising up voices, and guiding when needed.
I remain committed to serving students, families, and schools. Whether through my work as a speech-language pathologist, as a mentor to future educators, or through new leadership opportunities, I know my purpose is to keep lifting others.
Closing Reflections
Being named a Rhode Island Teacher of the Year finalist is not just about me—it is about the community of educators who inspire me every day. It is about the children who remind me why our work matters. And it is about the belief that when we lead together, we rise together.
I am proud, humbled, and deeply grateful to have been considered, and I look forward to the next chapter of this journey.
RELATED BLOGS:
- Inclusion Has Been a Fundamental Part of My Educational Journey
- Welcome Let’s Chat
- The Small and the Mighty: A Powerful Read That Reignited My Passion for Education and Inclusion
- Rhode Island Department of Education to Host September 27 Full WaterFire Lighting, in Celebration of Rhode Island Educators
