RIFLA Awards Winners 2024

RIFLA Student of the Year 2024

Eliana Rita Boghos, whose teachers are Mary Briden (French/Arabic Teacher) and Silvia Campbell (Spanish Teacher) at Lincoln School, has been proudly named RIFLA’s 2024 Student of the Year.

Eliana was voted as the winner for her extensive participation and involvement in World Language education both within her school community and beyond. A graduating senior of the Lincoln School in Providence, Eliana has immersed herself in both the Arabic and Spanish languages throughout all four years of her high school experience. In addition to her impressive dedication to her studies, Eliana has committed herself to improving her community through languages. She is involved as President of the Student Council, Social Justice, and Feminist Clubs at Lincoln School as well as a tutor of both Arabic and Spanish. Eliana is a volunteer at Miriam Hospital and St. Basal Church where she provides translation services for people within the English, Arabic, and Spanish languages. She is known for possessing a love, open-mindedness, and willingness to explore world languages. Get to know more about Eliana in this video!

RIFLA Norma Garnett Advocacy Award 2024

Dr. Erin Papa, an assistant professor in Rhode Island College Department of Educational Studies and director of its World Languages Education Programs, is a role model for our profession with her tireless advocacy, leadership and passion towards shifting and enhancing language education for all in Rhode Island. She has totally immersed herself both personally and professionally in the realm of her work. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Papa has been a tireless advocate for language programs, students and teachers in Rhode Island. She has worked closely with policy makers and educators to implement early language programs and has been instrumental in multiple legislative initiatives, including the Seal of Biliteracy, World Languages Standards adoption, and immersion program expansion.

In addition to her advocacy work, Dr. Papa has extensive administrative and leadership experience with various organizations, school districts, and language programs locally, nationally, and internationally. She is the director of the Coalition for a Multilingual Rhode Island and serves on the Boards of the Olneyville Neighborhood Association in Providence and La Montaña Fund, which supports rural community development in Guatemala.

Dr. Papa's dedication to language education extends beyond the classroom. In Summer 2023, she led a Fulbright-Hays Group Project Abroad for educators to Guatemala, integrating Spanish and K'iche' language learning with an analysis of the educational system. Her research interests include the intersections of language, race, and (im)migration status, heritage language education, and language education policy and planning.

RIFLA Middle School Poster Award 2024

Anna Mansfield at Jamestown Lawn School, whose teacher is Michaela Onosko, was awarded the Middle School Poster Award. This year the theme was Multilingualism Empowers Tomorrow’s Leaders.

RIFLA Elementary School Poster Award 2024

Isaac Galiyah at Springbrook Elementary School, whose teacher is Dori Carpenter, was awarded the Elementary School Poster Award. This year the theme was Multilingualism Empowers Tomorrow’s Leaders.

RIFLA College Study Stipend Award 2024

 Caroline Bradley at Rhode Island College, whose professor is Dr. Erin Papa,   will study in Colombia and Puerto Rico where she plans to attend intensive       immersion classes in the target culture over the summer semester in Colombia   and then complete a practicum class during the fall semester in Puerto Rico. The   combination of both experiences will enhance her language abilities and deepen   her understanding of teaching in a multicultural context.

RIFLA Teacher PD Award 2024

Saul Disla, Spanish Teacher at Cumberland High School, plans to embody RIFLA’s mission to promote teacher professional development which in turn ensures the future of language education in RI. We were most impressed with his plan to attend the regional conference NECTFL next year where he will network and learn with regional experts and bring his learning back to RI language programs.

RIFLA World Languages Teacher of the Year 2023-24

Ms. Lora Calise, World Languages teacher in the Smithfield School District, has been awarded the title of RIFLA Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Lora Calise’s stellar performance in the Portfolio and Interview evaluations underscored her passion for teaching, decades of experience, and active engagement in professional development.

Ms. Calise's portfolio, adorned with glowing letters of recommendation, highlighted her commitment to world language standards and innovative teaching practices. Her extensive curriculum vitae showcased a rich tapestry of experiences, including leadership roles, conference presentations, and curriculum enhancements.

In the interview with RIFLA awards committee, Ms. Calise shared insights into effective teaching strategies, addressing diverse learner needs, and creating culturally enriching experiences for students. Her commitment to ACTFL World Languages standards, professional organizations and advocacy for language acquisition in a global context were pivotal points in her winning the award.

As Ms. Calise assumes the mantle of Teacher of the Year, her accolades reflect not just her past achievements but a dedication that extends beyond the classroom. Join us in applauding Ms. Calise's well-deserved recognition and her ongoing commitment to shaping the future of World Language education.