Maria Torres Named Providence Public School District’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

Maria Torres Named Providence Public School District’s 2025 Teacher of the Year

Maria Torres from Leviton Dual Language School has been named Providence Public School District's 2025 Teacher of the Year. 

Torres, who attended Providence Public Schools herself, has also taught Alfred Lima, Carl G. Lauro, and Reservoir Avenue Elementary Schools during her 22-year tenure. 

“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.”

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According to PPSD, 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. 

PPSD continues: 

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.

“Ms. Torres exemplifies the excellence, dedication and compassion that define the very best of Providence’s educators,” said Providence Mayor Brett 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 Ms. Torres as the 2025 Teacher of the Year and are thankful for her continued service to the families of Providence.”