Laura Caster Named Newport Teacher of the Year

When Laura Caster returned to for the new school year, she was met with quite an honor: 2012 Newport Teacher of the Year.

Caster is a special education teacher in her eighth year in Newport schools. Before teaching at Thompson, she taught elementary school students in resource and self-contained classes.

“I was completely shocked,” Caster said about hearing the news.

Although Newport Public Schools announced the Teacher of the Year award yesterday, Tuesday Oct. 4, Caster said she found out weeks ago, just as school was coming back in session.

“No matter how challenging the students I’ve worked with have been, I’ve always given my best,” she said. “I always try to think of them first.”

Caster also served as a coach in the Positive Behavior Intervention Supports Team, is a member of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Network of Rhode Island, and partnered with Salve Regina University to provide student teachers with support and experience.

“Laura Caster is an outstanding representative of the many fine teachers who work in the Newport Public Schools,” a release from Newport Public Schools said.

Caster will be presented the award officially at the next school committee meeting.