News Summary
Maria Torres from Leviton Dual Language School has been honored as the Teacher of the Year by the Providence Public School District. With over 22 years in education, Torres is recognized for her commitment to enhancing the learning environment and community engagement. Her innovative teaching methods and leadership roles highlight her dedication to cultural appreciation and student growth. Torres’s initiatives, including a food waste reduction program and community events, showcase the importance of social responsibility in education.
Providence – Maria Torres from Leviton Dual Language School has been honored as the Providence Public School District (PPSD) 2025 Teacher of the Year, recognizing her commitment to education and community engagement. Torres, an alumnus of Providence Public Schools, has dedicated over 22 years to teaching within the district, imparting knowledge and fostering growth in countless students.
Torres’s career in education has spanned several institutions, including Alfred Lima, Carl G. Lauro, and Reservoir Avenue Elementary Schools. Her current role at Leviton Dual Language School has solidified her reputation for unparalleled dedication to enhancing the school’s learning environment. Her involvement extends beyond the classroom; she is a crucial member of both the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT) and Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) Team, where she advocates for the integration of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) within the School Improvement Plan.
A key aspect of Torres’s teaching philosophy is celebrating students’ cultural identities through engaging class projects. This approach not only enriches her students’ educational experience but also fosters a sense of pride in their heritage. Beyond academics, Torres contributes to the school’s extracurricular activities, notably coaching the basketball team, where she imparts essential life skills such as communication and teamwork to her students.
Additionally, Torres plays a significant role in organizing community events like Career Week, which invites local professionals to interact with students and inspire their aspirations. Her innovative teaching methods also include conducting outdoor meteorology lessons, enabling third graders to engage in hands-on data collection that enriches their understanding of science.
In an effort to promote sustainability, Torres has launched a “food waste rangers” program aimed at reducing waste in schools. This initiative encourages students to consider their environmental impact while fostering a culture of responsibility and sustainability within the school community.
Mayor Brett Smiley acknowledged Torres’s hard work and dedication, commending her for fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. The prestigious Teacher of the Year award was presented during a ceremony that brought together students, colleagues, and school administrators, including Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez, celebrating Torres’s impactful contribution to education.
Torres’s commitment to her students and the broader Providence school community profoundly influences not only those in her classroom but also the families and community members connected to her school. Her initiatives and passion for education highlight the significance of community involvement and cultural appreciation in today’s educational landscape.
Through dedication and innovative practices, Maria Torres exemplifies the qualities of a transformative educator, ensuring that her students are well-prepared for their future endeavors both academically and personally.
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Additional Resources
- ABC6 News
- WPRI News
- GoLocalProv
- Providence Journal
- Rhode Island Current
- Wikipedia: Teacher of the Year
- Google Search: Maria Torres Providence teacher
- Google Scholar: Educational Innovation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google News: Maria Torres Providence
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
