Catherine Davis Hayes was named TEACHER OF THE YEAR 2007, for the State of Rhode Island. She is an elementary art teacher at Oakland Beach Elementary School in Warwick, R. I. This is the first time an art teacher has ever received this award in Rhode Island. Kudos to her for her outstanding achievement! You can congratulate her here.

You can view websites that illustrate her devotion here:

• Student Art Gallery


• Tops in the Art of Teaching [article]


• The Governor's Congratulations

Art teacher named RI teacher of year

WARWICK -- A Warwick art teacher has been named Rhode Island's 2007 Teacher of the Year.

Catherine Davis-Hayes, who teaches art at the Oakland Beach Elementary School, was surprised with the honors in a ceremony this morning that included Governor Carcieri and Education Commissioner Peter McWalters.

Officials honored the veteran teacher for her commitment to arts at a time when state mandates can make elective subjects like this one take a back seat to test preparation.

Davis-Hayes is an 11-year veteran of the school, which has in recent years climbed back from low-performing status.

In a statement, Carcieri praised Davis-Hayes' efforts.

“Cathy’s energy and dedication to the arts and to her students has earned her this important distinction," Carcieri said. "She believes in the power of the arts to help students make connections between ideas from throughout all their areas of study. Rhode Island is very fortunate to have teachers of Cathy's experience, ability, and commitment."