June 18, 2025
PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, the Providence Public School District (PPSD) proudly announced Maria Torres from Leviton Dual Language School as its 2025 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Torres, a dedicated educator for 22 years, is recognized for her profound impact on students' lives and her outstanding contributions to the field of education within Providence.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Providence Teacher of the Year Maria Torres, an inspiration for all Rhode Island educators,” said Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “As a dual language educator, she embraces PPSD’s rich diversity and proves multilingual learner (MLL) programs are essential for our students’ success. Mrs. Torres holds her students to very high standards and advocates for them every step of the way demonstrating a deep commitment to our kids and the teaching profession.”
A proud alumna of Providence Public Schools, Mrs. Torres exemplifies the district's commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. Her 22-year tenure includes seven years at Leviton Dual Language School, following impactful roles at Alfred Lima, Carl G. Lauro, and Reservoir Avenue Elementary Schools.
"Maria Torres embraces culture, language, relationships, and community," said Providence Public School Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez. "She ensures students feel seen and heard, and as a dual language educator, she tailors lessons to meet students where they are, providing meaningful support. We are honored to celebrate her 22 years with Providence Public Schools and her outstanding contributions as the 2025 Teacher of the Year."
“Mrs. Torres exemplifies the excellence, dedication and compassion that define the very best of Providence’s educators,” added Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “Her commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive learning environment has had a profound impact on her students and the broader school community. We are honored to recognize Mrs. Torres as the 2025 Teacher of the Year and are thankful for her continued service to the families of Providence.”
A Champion for Students and Community
Ms. Torres's dedication extends beyond the classroom. She is a vital member of Leviton's Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) and Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) Team, where she championed the inclusion of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in the School Improvement Plan. Her teaching methodology incorporates principles from LETRS coursework, aligning her practices with best research-based strategies. A passionate advocate for multicultural and bilingual education, she actively participates in conferences and initiatives that celebrate diversity and promote equity.
“Mrs. Torres exemplifies unparalleled dedication to our school and its learning environment,” said Leviton Principal Jennifer Walker. “Her roots in the Providence community and her pride as a product of Providence Public Schools further underscore her deep-seated commitment to educational excellence and community empowerment. As a no-excuses educator, she consistently upholds high expectations for herself, her colleagues, and her students alike.”
Ms. Torres cultivates a holistic learning environment. She designs class projects that foster students' pride in their cultural identity and coaches the school's basketball team, helping students develop essential life skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. She actively bridges the classroom with the community, organizing events like Career Week where local professionals visit to inspire students. Her innovative approach also includes outdoor meteorology lessons where third graders collect real data and a "food waste rangers" program aimed at eliminating waste in schools.
Recognizing Excellence Across the District
Ms. Torres was selected from over 75 nominated teachers across 28 Providence schools. The selection committee, comprised of educators, administrators, and community leaders, included:
- Elizabeth Amadio, Educator, A-Venture Academy, 2019 Teacher of the Year
- Rachel Greenberg, Educator, Bailey Elementary, 2024 Teacher of the Year
- Aubrey Johnson, Parent Advisory Council Leadership
- Michaela Keegan, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction
- Javier Montañez, Superintendent
- Nkoli Onye, Chief of Equity and Belonging
- Carina Pinto de Chacon, Chief of Family and Community Engagement
- Suzanne Ouellette, Chief of Communications
- Ariana Testa, Principal, JSEC
The District also applauds the exemplary work of the 10 finalists:
- Jennifer Benoit, Vartan Gregorian Elementary School
- Emerson Brown, Classical High School
- Michael Angel Johnson, E-Cubed Academy
- Christine Medeiros, Kennedy Elementary School
- Amy O’Brien-Milhoua, Carnevale Elementary School
- Paul Petit, Bishop Middle School
- Jeannette Rivera-Hausman, Lillian Feinstein at Sackett Street
- Michelle Silvia, Kennedy Elementary School
- Rick Taylor, Bishop Middle School
The Providence Public School District congratulates Mrs. Torres on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of her students.
About Providence Public Schools
Providence Public Schools is committed to providing a world-class education for all students, preparing them for success in college, career, and life. The District is dedicated to equity and excellence, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
For more information about Providence Public Schools, visit www.providenceschools.org. Follow Providence Public Schools on Facebook, X (@pvdschools), or Instagram (@pvdschools) for timely updates.
