Every student needs a teacher in their life who is considerate and caring, and that is exactly who literacy teacher Ms. Galla is. That is why it was no surprise when she was announced as Lincoln’s 2025-2026 District Teacher of the Year.

All students and staff members at Lincoln High School were gathered into the gymnasium for a surprise assembly to see Galla accept her award. Galla knew nothing about who would win until Principal Mr. Kenneth Hopkins started to describe the winner’s achievements. Hopkins explained how the winning teacher had previously taught at Rhode Island College and has been teaching in the Lincoln School District for over 20 years. She is National Board Certified, has her Masters in Reading and Education, and is the co-chair of the Literacy Committee.

“I was very surprised during the assembly,” said Galla. “After I kind of heard my name I didn’t really hear what else happened for a couple minutes after because I was shaking, I was so excited.”

The Lincoln Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year award is awarded to one teacher per year. This includes the hundreds of teachers at the four elementary schools, the Middle School, and the High School. 

Along with being the school’s literacy teacher, Galla is also a member of the MTSS team that helps students who are in need of more support, as well as a member of The National Honor Society Advisory Board. Galla was also recognized as LHS’s Vision of the Graduate Teacher of the Month for January and February earlier this year. 

LHS previously had two literacy teachers, but the position was reduced to one, so Ms.Galla has been working harder than ever. This hard work has not gone unnoticed by her students or her coworkers in Lincoln High School, especially Mrs. Pavao, who nominated her for the award. 

“I co-taught with Ms. Galla for years so I know what a hardworker she is,” said Pavao. “I thought of her instantly when the nomination form came through because she really lights up when she talks about teaching and she is truly great at her craft”.

Galla’s freshman advisory student Sophia Cutler also appreciates how Galla always lights up whatever room she walks into. She makes every single one of her students – who she refers to as her “kids” – feel seen and heard. 

“Ms. Galla is always supporting her students and making sure they are okay,” said Cutler. “She always has a smile on her face and has some sort of contagious happiness”.

Keep doing what you’re doing Ms.Galla, CONGRATULATIONS!