Latinos for Education hosted its fourth annual Latino Educators Shine Awards at the State House on May 28, and Renee Rosario-McDonald, a science teacher at Abby Kelley Foster Charter School in Worcester, was among the 40 Latino educators from across the Commonwealth that were honored by state legislators.
Rosario-McDonald was recognized by Senator Robyn Kennedy for her dedication and commitment, as well as for the positive impact she has on students, families, and the broader community. Rosario-McDonald has worked as an 8th-grade science teacher for the past 9 years at Abby Kelley Foster. On top of teaching a full course load, she also continues to be a class advisor to the school’s upper grade levels.
“As a Hispanic teacher, I see pieces of my younger self in so many of my students. Every day, I hope to show them that their culture is their strength, their voice matters, and their dreams are possible. I hope that my classroom is more than a place to learn but a safe place where they feel seen,” said Rosario-McDonald, in a statement emailed to the Telegram & Gazette.
Other educators from Central Massachusetts that were honored included Albert Munoz, adjustment counselor at Shrewsbury High School; Aracelis Abreu, teacher at Fitchburg High School; Jared Figueroa, math teacher at Southbridge Middle School; Judy Maisonet, assistant superintendent for Southbridge Public Schools and Maria Calvillo, Spanish teacher at Stacy Middle School in Milford.
