News & Awards

At The Compass School, we are proud to be a recognized leader in the advancement of public education. Below, you'll find recent highlights that showcase our leadership in environmental education, project-based learning, and literacy instruction—along with media features such as a video highlighting our middle school renovation produced in partnership with the RI Office of Energy Resources, our PBS RI Classroom segment, and a School Spotlight by the RI League of Charter Public Schools. This section also celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of our educators, with recognition for excellence in STEAM education, civic engagement, and more. Together, these stories reflect our ongoing commitment to empowering students, supporting educators, and shaping the future of education in Rhode Island.

Best Practice Highlights

As a public charter school, The Compass School fulfills our mission as a pioneer in educational innovation, serving as a hub for experimentation, community engagement, and the advancement of best practices. Our efforts reflect a deep commitment to the ongoing improvement of education, both locally and nationally. Recent highlights include:

Environmental Education

  • Hosted the RI Farm & Sea to School Institute, fostering collaboration and sustainable food education.

  • Compass Student Leaders presented at the US Department of Energy in Washington, DC, as part of the US Green Difference Awards.

  • Hosted the RI Environmental Educators Association Conference, supporting statewide environmental education initiatives.

Project-Based Learning

  • Hosted a Leadership RI Site Visit, showcasing how project-based learning transforms student engagement and outcomes.

  • Welcomed participants from the International Association of Laboratory Schools Conference during their visit to URI, sharing innovative teaching strategies.

Literacy Leadership

  • Compass educators became weekly contributors to Root Literacy Design's Daring to Read Blog and Literacy YouTube Channel, sharing expertise with educators nationwide.

  • Hosted the first annual RI Science of Reading Conference, with keynote speaker Brandee Lapisky leading discussions on literacy reform.

  • The Reading League Journal published the article "Changing Course: Large-Scale Implementation of the Science of Reading" by Brandee Lapisky and Heather Ballantine, highlighting Compass’s literacy success story.

These accomplishments underscore our dedication to educational excellence, sustainability, and community impact, positioning The Compass School as a leader in public education reform and a trusted resource for advancing best practices.

Celebrating Educator Excellence

We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our dedicated educators, whose innovative teaching and leadership have been recognized at the state level. From civic engagement and STEAM instruction to district-wide leadership, these awards reflect the passion and commitment our teachers bring to the classroom every day.

2025 Susan B. Wilson Civic Education Merit Award
Recipient: Diane Randall, Art Teacher
Diane Randall was recognized with the Second Place Jury Prize in the 2025 Susan B. Wilson Civic Education Award for her innovative integration of civic learning into the arts. Through projects such as the Witness Stones Project and the Jonnycake Food Drive, Ms. Diane has enriched students’ understanding of civic responsibility, participation, and historical relevance. The award celebrates educators who promote awareness of civic rights, inspire community engagement, and bring relevance to pivotal civic events on local and national levels.

2025 District Teacher of the Year
Recipient: Elissa Crandall, Second Grade Teacher
Elissa Crandall has been named the 2025 Compass School District Teacher of the Year. This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to one teacher from each district in Rhode Island who exemplifies excellence in teaching and a commitment to student growth. In this role, Ms. Elissa will serve as a liaison to the RI Department of Education, participating in statewide leadership sessions and professional development alongside fellow district honorees.

2024 Rhode Island Elementary School STEAM Educator Award
Recipient: Julie Maruska, Science Teacher
Julie Maruska was selected as the 2024 Rhode Island Elementary School STEAM Educator Award recipient by the RI STEAM Center and the RI Department of Education. This award honors teachers who design hands-on, engaging STEAM lessons that foster curiosity and creativity. Ms. Julie’s application stood out for its demonstration of her deep commitment to integrated STEAM education and her ability to motivate students through inquiry-based science instruction.