05/14/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2026
East Providence High School’s Jessica D’Orsi Named East Providence District Teacher of the Year
East Providence, RI — East Providence High School is proud to announce that Jessica D’Orsi has officially been named the 2026 East Providence School District Teacher of the Year. Following her selection as East Providence High School Teacher of the Year, Jessica was chosen by the district selection committee on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, and will now represent the East Providence School District at the State of Rhode Island Teacher of the Year level.
This recognition is a tremendous honor for both Jessica and the East Providence High School community. Jessica becomes the first educator from EPHS to earn the District Teacher of the Year distinction since Richard Martin received the honor in 2016.
Jessica D’Orsi has spent her entire educational career as a proud Townie. Originally from North Providence and now residing in Smithfield, she began her studies at Rhode Island College before earning her teaching degree from Providence College and later obtaining a Master’s Degree in Education/TESOL from Rhode Island College.
Now in her nineteenth year teaching at East Providence High School, Jessica serves as an English teacher focused primarily on supporting Multilingual Learners (MLL). Throughout her career, she has built meaningful relationships with students and families while creating a welcoming and supportive environment where students feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
“Jessica embodies what Townie Pride is all about,” said East Providence High School Principal William Black. “She is a passionate educator, a strong advocate for all students, and someone who consistently goes above and beyond to support young people both inside and outside the classroom. Her impact on our school community is immeasurable, and we are incredibly proud to see her represent East Providence at the state level.”
Jessica’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. She helps coordinate initiatives such as the Gingerbread Express, which provides holiday gifts for students and families in need, and the Prom Dress Giveaway, which supplies dresses, makeup, and nail products to help students feel confident during prom season. She also works closely with the MLL team to provide after-school academic support, college and scholarship assistance, and credit recovery opportunities for students.
In 2023, Jessica was recognized statewide when she received the Golden Apple Award from NBC 10 and the Rhode Island Department of Education. When reflecting on what motivates her as an educator, Jessica points to both her students and her family for inspiration. “My students are my biggest motivation,” said D’Orsi. “They come from all over the world and show incredible perseverance, strength, and courage every single day. I try to build their confidence and remind them that they can and will be successful.” Jessica also credits her mother for instilling in her the importance of helping others and advocating for students and families.
Students and colleagues alike describe Jessica as kind, supportive, hardworking, and committed to helping others succeed. Whether she is teaching, mentoring, organizing student supports, or simply being a trusted adult for students, Jessica’s impact continues to be felt throughout the East Providence community. East Providence High School and the East Providence School District proudly congratulate Jessica D’Orsi on this outstanding achievement and look forward to supporting her as she represents the district at the Rhode Island Teacher of the Year level.
