PROVIDENCE, RI –  Today, the Providence Public School District (PPSD) is thrilled to announce Rachel Greenberg, M.Ed., as the PPSD 2024 Teacher of the Year. The surprise announcement was made during a school-wide assembly at Robert L Bailey IV Elementary, with the Greenberg family, Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kelvin Roldán, Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, Mayor Brett Smiley, Providence Teachers Union (PTU) President Maribeth Calabro, school staff, students, and special guests in attendance.

Rachel Greenberg, a dedicated educator with extensive experience and a passion for student success, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to the district. Her innovative teaching methods, leadership in various educational initiatives, and commitment to equity and inclusion have made a significant impact on the Providence school community.

"Rachel's enthusiasm and commitment to our students are truly inspiring. She goes above and beyond to ensure that every child feels valued and supported. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are fortunate to have her as part of our Bailey Elementary school community," said RIDE Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. "Congratulations, Rachel, on this well-earned honor."

"Rachel Greenberg exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educator," said Providence Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez. “Her dedication, creativity, and leadership have profoundly impacted our students and staff. We are incredibly proud to honor her as our 2024 Teacher of the Year."

“The Bailey Elementary community is so proud that Rachel’s hard work and dedication is being recognized this year by the PPSD community. She deserves this recognition, and we are blessed to have her as part of our Bailey Elementary family," said Bailey Principal Alicia Jones. “Rachel’s dedication to her former and current students is legendary and is born out of a love for the art of teaching. Congratulations! 

"It is with great pride and admiration that we celebrate Rachel Greenberg of Bailey Elementary School as the Providence Public Schools 2024 Teacher of the Year,” said PTU President Maribeth K. Calabro. “Rachel's dedication, passion, and innovative approach to teaching exemplify the excellence we strive for in our education system. Her unwavering commitment to her students' success and well-being is truly inspiring. Congratulations, Rachel, on this well-deserved honor. You make our community proud."

Rachel Greenberg holds a Master of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education, both from Rhode Island College. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Since joining Bailey Elementary School, Greenberg has played pivotal roles, including serving as the 1st Grade Multilingual Learner Classroom Teacher, where she supports language development and personalized learning for high-needs students.

Her leadership roles include Science Team Lead for K-2, Musical Director for the school's production of "Finding Nemo Jr.," and Technology Lead, where she managed building technology issues and facilitated Chromebook repairs. Greenberg's dedication to professional development and leadership is evident through her work as an Equity Leadership Team Ambassador and her contributions to district-wide curriculum design projects, including the Elementary Computer Science Curriculum and the Providence Landmark Curriculum. Her passion for inclusive education is further highlighted by her certifications in Classroom Culture, Rigor and Mastery, Differentiation and Identity, and Interest and Agency, obtained through the Highlander Institute. Her numerous accolades include the prestigious Golden Apple Award from the R.I. Department of Education in 2017.

The Providence Public School District is proud to celebrate Rachel Greenberg's achievements and her unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

Ms. Greenberg was selected by the 2024 Teacher of the Year Committee, which reviewed more than 50 candidates submitted by PPSD staff. The 2024 Teacher of the Year Committee is as follows: 

• Francesca LeClerc- PPSD’s 2022-2023 “Teacher of the Year” Winner
• Aubrey Johnson- Parent Advisory Council Leadership
• April Flowers-Instructional Support Leader
• Janet Pichardo- Executive Director of Family Engagement
• Ty’Relle Stephens, School Board Member 
• Valerie Tutson, Community Member 
• Xenia Walker, Turnaround Arts Program Director 

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.

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