As a teacher, my goal is to ignite and develop students’ interest, curiosity, and passion for learning. Receiving the Presidential Award validates the innovative work that I have done with my colleagues and students to transform instruction using a workshop model. Joining this community of esteemed educators is a humbling experience. I will continue to grow professionally to strive to enrich the learning of every child. I am grateful for this opportunity and am proud to represent my district.

Alicia Beggs Foxborough, MA | K-6, Mathematics, 2022

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Alicia Beggs is a sixth grade mathematics and science teacher at John J. Ahern Middle School, where she began her career in education and has remained in the role for the past 16 years. Alicia’s goal as a teacher is to create a space where each student feels comfortable and valued and can reach their full potential. She believes in using a workshop model to differentiate content, while providing small-group instruction on targeted skills, and giving students the opportunity to choose learning activities that best meet their learning style and ability level. When introducing a new mathematics or science concept, she uses inquiry and hands-on lessons to engage the students. She believes that when students make connections independently and discover ways of solving a problem, they are more likely to understand and retain what they are learning. Alicia takes an active role in her school community, by developing curriculum and pioneering new teaching strategies, leading professional development for her district and surrounding districts, planning an annual sixth grade STEM Day, mentoring new teachers, and serving as a Student Council advisor as well as a member of various district committees. Alicia earned a B.A., summa cum laude, in elementary education and mathematics/computer science from Boston College and an M.Ed. in teaching English as a second language from Rhode Island College. She is certified in elementary education and teaching English as a second language at the elementary level.

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