CONGRATULATIONS MR. GOODWIN!
Many of you may know that Little Compton School Department’s 2026 District Teacher of the Year (DTOY) is Mr. Bryan Goodwin. Today, we are shouting it from the rooftops!
Mr. Goodwin was nominated by all six past Little Compton District Teachers of the Year who are current employees – Mr. Lee Torres, Ms. Mary Elizabeth MIller, Ms. Jessica Higgins, Ms. Gen Morash, Ms. Karen Corrigan, Ms. Jennifer Segala, and here are some of their comments from the nomination Google Form:
When asked "What three strong characteristics does this Teacher/Educator possess that make her/him/them special to our school? The abovementioned teachers replied:
Dedicated
Inspiring
Passionate
Compassionate
Skilled
Collaborative
Humble
Committed
Patient
Empathetic
Flexible
Some biographical info
A bit of biographical info: Mr. Goodwin graduated from Salve Regina University with a degree in Elementary and Special Education and is the special educator/case manager entrusted with supporting our middle school students. He holds certificates in Orton-Gillingham OG+ and Morphology+, which support his work in helping students develop strong literacy skills. He was honored by the Newport County Special Education Advisory Board for his dedication to supporting students with diverse learning needs. Bryan lives in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, with his wife, Courtney, and their two sons, Cameron and Callan. In addition to his passion for teaching, he enjoys playing, coaching, and refereeing ice hockey. He has even laced up in our hallways (on roller-hockey skates, of course)!
Below are more comments from Mr. Goodwin's nominators
Since 2014, I have witnessed Bryan with students and colleagues. He is an exceptional educator, who is always present in the classroom and with his students. He puts in the extra time (quietly) working with students before and after school, checking in with students during school. Talking to students not only about academics, but the sports and or activities that they are involved in. He is consistent and impacts students’ lives.
Bryan brings unwavering compassion, deep expertise in differentiated instruction, and a collaborative spirit that uplifts students and colleagues. His ability to build trusting relationships with learners who face significant challenges makes him a cornerstone of our inclusive school community. Bryan has the patience needed to support his students. His communication with his students and their parents/caretakers is to be commended. He has high expectations for his students and holds them accountable.
Bryan leads by example through his commitment to continuous learning, regularly engaging in professional development and applying new strategies to support diverse learners. He partners closely with families to create individualized learning plans, ensuring students receive the support they need both at school and at home.
Bryan uses patience to get to know his middle school students to provide individualized support. He takes the time to study his students' learning styles, personalities, triggers, and passions. Bryan is committed to building trust and a rapport with each and every one of his students on an individual basis. He is empathetic to the challenges each student may face and tailors his teaching/support to meet their specific needs. He accommodates for their diversity and interests to best reach each individual.
Bryan is an unsung hero. He works outside the spotlight, but his presence in the classroom and the rapport he has with his students, colleagues, and school community is remarkable and should be commended. Additionally, outside the classroom, Bryan is a coach, husband and father. He is always one of the first to volunteer a helping hand. What an amazing role model for his two sons!