Michelle Murtha Named 2027 NEARI Teaching Excellence Award Recipient

Cranston, R.I. — In Michelle Murtha’s classroom, the message is clear – and constant:

You matter. You can do anything. I believe in you.

It’s more than a poster on the wall. It’s a belief that shapes how she teaches, how she connects with students, and how she builds relationships that extend far beyond the school day.

Each summer, Murtha writes a personalized, handwritten postcard to every student she taught the year before – a small but powerful reminder that they matter, that they are not forgotten, and that someone is always in their corner.

That combination of care, commitment, and impact is why the National Education Association Rhode Island (NEARI) has named Murtha, a special educator at Portsmouth High School, the 2027 NEARI Teaching Excellence Award recipient.

Murtha, a veteran educator with more than 25 years of experience, teaches in the school’s Therapeutic Academic Program (TAP), where she supports students facing significant academic and social-emotional challenges. Through high-quality instruction, social-emotional learning, and strong relationship building, she helps students re-engage in school and rebuild confidence in themselves.

Her impact is both measurable and deeply personal.

One student entered the program resistant and disengaged, convinced that school simply wasn’t for her. Murtha met that resistance with consistency and care – checking in, listening without judgement, and reminding the student they were working through it together. Over time, the student’s attendance improved, her behavior stabilized, and she began to engage in her learning – ultimately passing her classes and building a path forward.

“Michelle Murtha represents the very best of Rhode Island’s public school educators,” said NEARI President Val Lawson. “She meets students where they are, believes in them even when they may not believe in themselves, and helps them find their way to success.”

Murtha’s commitment to relationships extends beyond her students to their families as well.

“I see families as essential partners in their child’s success,” Murtha said. “I prioritize open communication and relationship building so families feel informed, respected, and included. It’s important that parents know we are working together to support their child academically, socially, and emotionally.”

Colleagues describe Murtha as a compassionate and highly skilled educator whose impact is felt across her entire school community.

“Michelle ensures that students receive the support they need while helping teachers implement accommodations effectively. Her calm, solutions-focused approach makes her an invaluable member of our school community,” said Nathaniel Perry, a colleague for over 20 years. “I am grateful to work alongside her.”

Murtha is also a leader in her local union, having served as a building representative, vice president, and secretary for NEA Portsmouth.

“She has fostered positive relationships with teachers and administrators, and she is deeply respected within the union community,” said school counselor Melissa Belotti-Stien.

A National Board Certified Teacher with advanced training in autism education, Murtha has also led professional development and shared strategies for inclusive, student-centered teaching, helping to support educators across her district.

Murtha was evaluated and selected from a competitive pool of applicants by a committee of NEARI officers and members. As part of this honor, she will travel to Washington, D.C. in February 2027 to be recognized at the NEA Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala, alongside outstanding educators from across the country.
 

The National Education Association Rhode Island (NEARI) is a union and professional organization with a proud history of serving Rhode Island since 1845. NEARI is nearly 12,000 members strong, we are classroom teachers; education support professionals; higher education faculty, staff, and graduate assistants; municipal and state workers; and retirees. We are affiliated with the National Education Association (NEA) and RI AFL-CIO. Learn more at www.neari.org.

Member Feature Spotlight

Michelle Murtha Teaches Students to Believe in Themselves