On April 23, students in the "Principles and Problems of Education" course (ED 201) at Western New England University welcomed a distinguished guest: Ms. Luisa Sparrow, the 2025 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. Hosted by Dr. Raymond Ostendorf, Associate Professor of Education, the visit provided students with a firsthand look into the passion, perseverance, and purpose that defines excellence in the teaching profession.
Ms. Sparrow, a fifth and sixth grade special education teacher at the Oliver Hazard Perry School in Boston Public Schools, delivered an inspiring presentation titled "Lessons from the Classroom." Drawing on her twenty-year journey as an educator, she emphasized the importance of educators bringing their “full selves” into the classroom and modeling curiosity for their students. She encouraged all in attendance, saying there is always room for passionate and committed individuals in the teaching profession.
Ms. Sparrow’s recognition is particularly notable: she works exclusively with students who have intellectual disabilities, and her award marks the first time in more than a decade that a teacher working with students with significant disabilities has been honored as Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.
"The timing of Ms. Sparrow’s visit was especially meaningful," said Dr. Ostendorf. "Our class was already scheduled to discuss the future of education that day, and her insights truly brought our discussions to life. It was an honor to have her with us."
Students left the event energized and inspired by Ms. Sparrow’s story and her deep commitment to inclusive education. Her visit provided a powerful real-world perspective as future educators prepare to make their own impact in classrooms across the country.
For more on Ms. Sparrow’s accomplishments, visit the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's profile of her here.
