PROVIDENCE, RI – The Providence Public School District honored Francesca Leclerc, a Harrisville resident and teacher at Classical High School, as the district’s 2023 Teacher of the Year.
“Leclerc is a dedicated educator who has made a significant impact on the lives of her students, and she is being recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of education,” noted a release on the announcement.
“We are thrilled to congratulate Providence Teacher of the Year Francesca Leclerc, who is widely regarded as a dynamic, influential and innovative educator,” said state education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “Congratulations, Francesca, and thank you sincerely for your commitment to educational excellence and the teaching profession. We are proud to have you shine in the PPSD community.”
“Francesca Leclerc is an outstanding educator who embodies the best of what it means to be a teacher,” said Providence Public School Supt. Javier Montañez. “Her dedication to her students and her passion for teaching are an inspiration to all of us. We are honored to recognize her as the 2023 Teacher of the Year and to celebrate her outstanding contributions to our district.”
“The Classical High School community is extremely proud that Ms. Leclerc has been chosen for the Providence Teacher of the Year 2023. It comes as no surprise, to those that have encountered Ms. Leclerc, that she was chosen for this prestigious award,” said Classical High School Principal Scott Barr. “Francesca Leclerc’s dedication to her students is legendary and is born out of a love for the art of teaching.”
Leclerc, of Harrisville has been with PPSD for 25 years, the last 23 of which were at Classical. She has been an educator for a total of 32 years. According to school officials, in addition to her classroom work, she spends countless hours outside of school communicating with her students. The educator also dedicates significant time to the Classical Theatre Company, producing two plays each year as director.
“An equity champion, Ms. Leclerc uses her voice to speak up for what is right for students and the community,” the release noted.
Leclerc was selected by the 2023 Teacher of the Year Committee, which reviewed more than 50 candidates submitted by PPSD staff.
“Providence Public School District congratulates Ms. Leclerc on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of her students.”
