RIDE Announces Sarah Dully, Narragansett High School English Teacher, as Rhode Island’s 2026 Teacher of the Year

RIDE Announces Sarah Dully, Narragansett High School English Teacher, as Rhode Island's 2026 Teacher of the Year

Published on Tuesday, September 16, 2025

NARRAGANSETT, RI - Today at Narragansett High School, Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green was joined by Narragansett School Superintendent Dr. Peter Cummings, Narragansett High School Principal Conor McCloskey, members of Rhode Island's General Assembly, as well as students, colleagues, friends and family members, at an all school assembly celebrating Narraganset High School English Teacher Sarah Dully's selection as Rhode Island's 2026 State Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Dully has been an educator since 2012. She joined Narragansett High School as an English Language Arts teacher in 2020. She is known by her colleagues as a standout educator, mentor, and leader. Beyond her work in the classroom, she is a National Honor Society Advisor and was Narragansett High School's Class of 2025 Advisor.

"Congratulations to Sarah and the entire Narragansett school community on this honor," said Governor Dan McKee. "By all accounts, Sarah is joyous about teaching, and she brings her passion into the classroom every day. We wish you great success in the year ahead."

Ms. Dully earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from College of the Holy Cross and a Master of Education from Fitchburg State University.

"I've had the opportunity to collaborate with Sarah over the past few months. Teaching is more than a job for her. Teaching is her calling," said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. "Sarah understands the importance of keeping students engaged in their learning," "My team and I look forward to partnering with Sarah as Rhode Island Teacher of the Year. Congratulations!"

As the 2026 Teacher of the Year, Dully will work with the Rhode Island Department of Education throughout the 2025 - 2026 school year to support education statewide, including strengthening professional development and engaging classrooms. She is also eligible to represent Rhode Island as the National Teacher of the Year.

As a surprise at the event, Dully was also awarded free coffee for a year courtesy of Dunkin'. Rob Batista, local Dunkin' franchisee, attended the celebration to present the award.

"I am honored to be selected as 2026 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year," said Sarah Dully. "It's humbling to represent so many thoughtful, enthusiastic, and committed educators here in the Ocean State. "Education isn't defined solely by data points; it's the soul of the school that lies in relationships, experiences, and connections. Every single day, it's a privilege to be a teacher and to work with amazing colleagues and students. Thank you."

"Sarah Dully exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator," said Milissa O'Neil, Rhode Island's 2025 State Teacher of the Year. "She goes beyond teaching English; she cultivates critical thinking, empathy, and creativity. In Sarah's classroom, students don't just learn how to write - they uncover the power and purpose behind their words."

"Sarah is an incredible teacher who expects the best from her students while providing the support, encouragement, and energy to make it possible for learners to meet her high expectations," said Dr. Peter Cummings, Superintendent of Narragansett Schools. Her skill, enthusiasm, and kindness as a teacher and person is an inspiration for us all. She truly represents the excellence of our educators in Narragansett."

"The Narragansett Mariner Family is proud to celebrate Sarah Dully as the Rhode Island State Teacher of the Year! With a student-centered approach, Mrs. Dully engages every learner in rigorous academic content while fostering a classroom and school culture where students feel both challenged and supported. She is an exemplary member of the Narragansett High School faculty and a model of educational excellence," said Conor McCloskey, Principal of Narragansett High School.