Six members of the Somerville Public Schools (SPS) staff were recognized for outstanding work by regional, state, and national organizations in 2022. Awards went to teachers at Somerville High School, our Athletics staff, and to the Director of the SPS’ newly-formed Office of Basic Needs and Housing Support.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeff Curley celebrated the staff accomplishments, noting, “The fact that so many of our incredible staff and teachers were recognized this fall is a direct result of their dedication to their students and school community. Each of these award recipients innovated in their field and found ways to make sure every student feels supported. These staff members inspire and encourage our students to be the best versions of themselves and we are lucky to have them here in Somerville Public Schools.”

The following SPS staff were recognized in 2022:

Adda Santos

• Somerville High School history teacher Adda Santos, named Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History 2022 Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year. Interim SHS co-principal and former social studies department chair Alicia Kersten describes Ms. Santos as “a remarkable teacher whose passion for history inspires and empowers her students.”

Veronica Rowlinson (center) at Celebration with Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Dr. Jess Boston (L) and Interim Superintendent Dr. Jeff Curley

• Somerville High School English teacher Veronica Rowlinson, named Massachusetts Department of Education Teacher of the Year Finalist. Ms. Rowlinson is an accomplished English teacher and works with the SHS National Honors Society chapter.

• Somerville Public Schools Athletics Department’s  Michelle Kelly, named Massachusetts Secondary School Athletics Director Athletic Trainer of the Year. This award reflects her exceptional service and unique contributions to the athletic training profession. SPS Athletic Director Stanley Vieira says, “she is a tireless worker and an amazing resource.”

Michael Morgan with Boys Tennis Team

• Somerville High School math teacher and boys’ tennis coach Michael Morgan, named Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Tennis Coach of the Year. This award is given for excellence of character, impact upon students, and community coaching credentials. Mr. Morgan also runs the Summer Explore orientation program for incoming 9^th graders to Somerville High School.

Regina Bertholdo

• Somerville Public Schools Basic Needs and Housing Support Office Director Regina Bertholdo, recognized at The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus 2022 Latino Excellence Awards. This award recognizes Director Bertholdo’s leadership and trailblazing to move the needle forward in cities and towns across the state. She was nominated by State Representative Mike Connolly.

Beatriz Thomas (R) at Celebration with Adda Santos (L) and Veronica Rowlinson (center)

• Somerville High School history teacher Beatriz Thomas, named an AmplifyLatinx 2022 Latinx Amplifier. Ms. Thomas was selected from among 30 peers and dozens of applicants from around the state.

• Kennedy School librarian Meghan Strapec was named 2023 Porter Square Books Writer in Residence for Young Readers. Ms. Strapec was chosen based on a writing sample, essay response, and her curriculum vitae.

In addition to their awards, Somerville High School teachers and staff, with district colleagues, celebrated SHS teachers Ms. Santos, Ms. Rowlinson, and Ms. Thomas at an event in the auditorium followed by coffee and desserts prepared by the SHS Culinary Arts Program.

— Somerville Public Schools