Mayor's Letter to Teachers Celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week

Dear Providence Teachers:

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you for all the hard work you do every day and for your dedication to the children of Providence.

Public school teachers have played a pivotal role in my life. As a third grader at Mary Fogarty Elementary School, it was my teacher, Mrs. Dorothy Donaldson, who encouraged me to join a gifted program and chase my dream of becoming a lawyer. I know first-hand how a public education and quality teachers can change a life. It changed mine. And that is why I am proud to proclaim this week "Teacher Appreciation Week" across the City of Providence.

Over the last 16 months, I have had the honor of visiting many of our city's schools. I have seen firsthand that every day and in classrooms across the city, teachers like you inspire our students the same way that Mrs. Donaldson inspired me years ago.

While we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, I hope you will take the time today to join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Susan Lusi on her selection as Superintended of Providence Schools. Dr. Lusi has provided steady and inspiring leadership this year in her role as Interim Superintendent. Her honest and forthright approach to working with principals, teachers, the School Board and other partners has created an atmosphere of trust and respect that is vital to our efforts to improve education in Providence.

Our schools have given us much to celebrate in recent weeks. On Monday, Pleasant View Elementary School received the state's first "Innovation Powered by Technology Model School Grant." Three of our teachers - Stephanie Chatelle, Lt. Col. Raoul Archambeault and Christopher Palumbo - received Golden Apple Awards. Lisa Rose Bucci, a science teacher at Hope High School, was named Teacher of the Year. A former teacher, Susan Chin, was named Rhode Island's Elementary Principal of the Year. Lauren Roberti, a special educator at Bishop Middle School, was recognized by the National Association of School Psychologists and the Rhode Island Psychologists Association for her work to help all students reach the possibility of their potential. These accolades confirm what we already know: That you are helping us make progress toward our ambitious goals to improve education in every neighborhood.

Still, I know that providing an outstanding education is a collaborative team effort. The district cannot do it alone. Schools cannot do it alone. Teachers cannot do it alone. In this spirit of partnership, members of the Children and Youth Cabinet have been working tirelessly to complement and add even greater value to your invaluable work.

Our work is not done. I am excited to continue partnering with you and Dr. Lusi to expand opportunities for more students, equip our children with the skills to compete and position Providence for the future. You are a vital part of the work to move Providence forward. Thank you for your service to the young people of our city.

With deep appreciation,
Angel Taveras
Mayor