Mr. Widen has taught Math for 15 years and was active in 4 teacher leadership teams. He has been selected as Teacher of the Year, and has twice been nominated by the senior class to give the keynote speech at graduation - this should tell you something about his rapport with students. He strives to make every student feel comfortable in the classroom, explains why learning targets are important, and outlines a clear road map of how to achieve each goal. He knows not all students learn in the same way or at the same pace - especially in math - and is adept at differentiating instruction. 
 

Dr. Magalhaes holds two doctoral degrees and has over two decades of teaching experience. Most recently she taught AP Chemistry, Integrated Sciences, Physics, and Human Physiology. She has also taught Math, Music and Piano and has worked with students of many diverse backgrounds. She strives to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning in all students and will be a welcome addition to our community.
 

Ms. Schmitt is a newer science teacher who will be mentored by our beloved Sharon Boardman. She has a strong academic foundation, excellent communication skills, loves a challenge, and has a firm belief in student-centered teaching. Her interests include neuroscience, philosophy and ultimate frisbee. She comes highly recommended by teaching faculty as a standout leader, we’re excited to have her with us!
 

Ms. Menard is living her dream - she’s wanted to be a social studies teacher since she was in 5th grade. She says, “social studies not only teaches us about our past, but it also creates a roadmap from which we can navigate the future, which is proving to be increasingly crucial in today’s interconnected, political, and multicultural world.” She’s an experienced teacher, a former collegiate basketball player, and is a lifelong learner. She especially enjoys civics and American history and also has experience in teaching world history and economics. She’s excited to work with motivated students who are ready to dive into the material and think about history’s significance in the modern world. We’re confident she’ll be a great fit at Rice.
 

Mr. Luce is a talented musician with over 20 years of experience in education. He has taught high school chorus, band, and music appreciation classes. He’s organized concerts, and performed at special events. He plays the trumpet and piano in a local band and as a pit orchestra musician for various theater productions. He brings strong experience and leadership to our program and will be a great complement to Mr. Ginter.

 

Ms. Smith comes from a family of artists whose traditions and experiences have created a deep personal interest in art. She has solid teaching experience, is enthusiastic, and has worked with a variety of mediums. Her background in art history and contemporary art have influenced a curriculum which encourages diversity and exploration of a wide range of cultures. She strives to motivate students to take creative risks, and encourage a life-long appreciation and enjoyment of art.
 

Ms. Baker will be joining us as a Spanish instructor this year. She holds a Master's degree in Spanish from Middlebury College and has enriched her expertise through an immersion program in Madrid. In addition to her academic background, she has dedicated significant time to volunteering with organizations that serve Spanish-speaking communities, from bilingual students in Queens to the underprivileged in Vatican City. At Rice, she is eager to help students enhance their language skills and achieve meaningful, sustained progress. We are delighted to welcome her to the Rice community!

Mrs. Trono holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Religious Studies from Saint Michael’s College and is a Certified Vermont Librarian with a Certificate of Public Librarianship from the Vermont Department of Libraries. She has previously served as an Assistant Librarian at Charlotte Central School and worked in Youth Services at The Charlotte Library. She is skilled in managing diverse library services, curating comprehensive digital and print collections, working in collaboration with educators and fostering a love of reading and learning among students. Here at Rice Memorial High School, she hopes to continue to create an inclusive, dynamic space that supports the academic and personal growth of all students. 

Mr. Daly joins us from a charter school in Boston. He has taught History and Humanities at the high school level and has also coached varsity soccer, basketball, and baseball. He has a dynamic personality, is well-rounded, and is both reliable and experienced. We are excited about the professionalism he brings to our school and can easily envision him working with our students in multiple capacities - both in the dorms and in the classroom.
 

Ms. Susan Luce will be joining the admissions team and supporting both local and international recruitment. If her name sounds familiar, it may be because she taught Latin at Rice for 10 years. She is warm, caring, and brings great ideas and knowledge to our admissions team. 
 

Rice has hired a new Athletic Trainer, Jorie Farnsworth, full-time starting on August 5th. If you need to meet with Jorie or discuss anything related to a sports injury or rehab program, please email her at: [email protected].