BURRILLVILLE – A school counselor who has worked for the district for more than 16 years has been named Burrillville School Department’s 2023 Teacher of the Year.
Lauren Leonti learned of the honor in a surprise ceremony during a school-wide assembly at Burrillville Middle School on Friday, May 27.
A Johnston native, Leonti received a bachelor’s degree in secondary education, focusing in history, from Rhode Island College in 2006, and a master’s degree in school counseling from Providence College in 2012.
Leonti, who previously served as a history teacher at Burrillville High School as well as a social studies teacher at the middle school, has been a member of the Burrillville Teacher’s Association since 2006. She was named Chepachet Grange Teacher of the Year in 2015.
One of two guidance counselors at the school, Leonti has also served as a program leader for the 8th grade trip to Washington, DC since 2016.
District officials shared quotes from the educator with NRI NOW this week that exemplify why she was selected for the honor.
“I believe my work as a guidance counselor helps to inspire students to perform at their best and helps them to realize and reach their full potential,” Leonti said. “I take one day at a time and leave school every day knowing that I did the best I could that day.”
Leonti also noted that the two doors to her guidance office are always open to anyone.
“As a guidance counselor, I wear many ‘hats’ every day,” said Leonti. “I work diligently with the BMS community to assess academics and the social-emotional health of students, and deliver direct and indirect student services.”
Middle school officials congratulated the counselor on social media.
“Ms. Leonti goes above and beyond to support our students, parents, and teachers in her role as guidance counselor,” school offcials noted. “BMS is lucky to have her.”
Supt. Michael Sollitto also had kind words for this year’s recipient.
“Ms. Leonti, we are so proud to have you as part of our Bronco family.”
Leonti will be formally recognized with a certificate of recognition at a meeting of the Burrillville School Committee scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 13.
