Boston, Ma. – Wednesday, November 1, 2023 – The Boston Public Schools (BPS), the City of Boston, and the Boston Teachers Union (BTU) are pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 BPS Educator of the Year Awards.
The Educator of the Year Awards recognize the exceptional educators who go above and beyond to impact the lives of BPS students, families, and community members. The award program celebrates educators who exemplify a commitment to their profession and honors educators who are worthy of representing the positive contributions of teaching staff districtwide.
Nominations for the Educator of the Year award were accepted for educators, paraprofessionals, nurses, librarians, and other support staff. Fellow educators, families, students, community members, and others were invited to nominate educators who they believed to be deserving of recognition for their contributions to the school community. In total, close to 500 nominations were reviewed and considered for the award.
“Our educators provide invaluable mentorship and guidance to our young people in shaping the next generation of leaders in Boston,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Their dedication and commitment to creating a nurturing, supportive environment has helped so many BPS students thrive and find their love for learning. Congratulations to all of the winners, and thank you to our entire BPS staff community, whose work is so essential to our city.”
Compelling nominations substantiated with evidence of each educator’s work, student work samples, letters or support, and a confidential vetting process involving evaluation and conduct history were a part of the process to narrow down this group of 7 winners for this year’s award.
“Every day, and especially during the pandemic, our educators are there to serve our students,” said Superintendent Mary Skipper. “The winners of this year’s award are pillars of their school communities and instrumental parts of the development and growth of their students. I am honored and grateful to have them as part of the BPS community and I am proud of their accomplishments.”
“These educators go above and beyond to serve our students,” said Boston School Committee Chairperson Jeri Robinson. “The Educator of the Year Award is a distinct honor that is indicative of the amazing work these educators do for our community. There are countless amazing teachers in BPS and I am so proud of this year’s recipients.
This year’s winners also include three educators, a paraprofessional, a nurse, and two related service providers.
The 2023 BPS Educator of the Year award winners are:
Teachers
Tanisha Milton, Grade 8 History @ TechBoston Academy
Donald Neville, Grade 7 Math @ Mildred Avenue K-8
Sally Ng, K2 @ East Boston Early Childhood Center
Nurse
Deborah Doherty @ Jeremiah Burke High School
Para
Sheila Santana, Grade 4 @ Sarah Greenwood K-8 School
Related Services Providers
Kelly Gallagher, Region 8 Social Worker
Beth Rymarczyk, Occupational Therapist @ Beethoven Elementary
Each winner is representative of the rich diversity of the BPS community. Educator of the Year award winners, their families, and colleagues will be invited to attend the BEDF Gala at Nia By Grace on November 14 and a virtual Boston School Committee Meeting in December to honor their exemplary work and commitment to their school communities.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
