NORTH PROVIDENCE – Seven-year North Providence High School math teacher Kathleen Cullen is known for transforming what school officials describe as “reluctant learners” through inclusive teaching focused on growth.
On May 27, Supt. Joseph Goho, the School Committee, and Cullen’s school and district colleagues honored her with the 2026 Teacher of the Year award for North Providence.
NPHS staffers said they were so proud of her selection, saying her hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to students makes a difference every day. They said the recognition is so well deserved, and they are incredibly fortunate to have Cullen as part of their school community.
Prior to the announcement, Goho congratulated all school winners, saying the honor shows that they are recognized with this “tremendous accomplishment” by a vote of their peers. He said it’s a sign of the respect that they have within their school community.
Chairperson Frank Pallotta also thanked all winners for their commitment and dedication to students.
“Students need teachers like you to support them every day,” he said, adding that as a 56-year educator himself, he knows it’s not always easy.
Officials announced Cullen as the winner, Goho saying she has performed at a high level for her seven years at the school, helping those reluctant learners achieve new heights through inclusive, data-drive instruction focused on a growth mindset.
Cullen employs targeted interventions, inclusion, and advocacy as the lead teacher of four inclusion classes, he said, providing specialized support. She displays leadership and mentorship, teaching clinical education at Rhode Island College, mentoring new faculty, advising the Math Club, and coordinating NPHS’s Thanksgiving food drive, he said. According to those who work with her and are taught by her, she goes above and beyond in her commitment to school spirit and service, academic rigor, social-emotional advocacy, community leadership, and she “exemplifies the very best of North Providence schools.”
Cullen received a standing ovation and a plaque in appreciation for her outstanding contributions.
Other individual school winters included:
• Jillian Ruggerio, McGuire Elementary School
• Kyra Gonzalez, Centredale Elementary School
• Tonia Malloy, Whelan Elementary School
• Kyla Russo, Stephen Olney Elementary School
• Christine Creamer, Greystone Elementary School
• Kayleigh Smith, Ricci Middle School
• Steven Muccino, Birchwood Middle School
