A special WaterFire lighting ceremony in Providence on Saturday honored nearly 85 of Rhode Island's most distinguished educators. The event, held at Memorial Park, included an awards ceremony and a torch procession to celebrate the state's Teachers of the Year and other recognized education professionals.
Key Takeaways
- A full WaterFire lighting in Providence was dedicated to celebrating Rhode Island educators.
- Nearly 85 District Teachers of the Year and other honored teachers participated in the ceremony.
- Students from career and technical education (CTE) programs provided essential services for the event, including catering and design.
- The celebration included an awards ceremony and a torch procession before the main lighting.
- Organizers and participants highlighted the event as a significant form of public recognition for the teaching profession.
A Community Celebration for Educators
Providence's iconic WaterFire event took on a special theme this past Saturday, turning its focus to the contributions of Rhode Island's educators. The celebration was designed to provide public recognition for teachers who have demonstrated excellence in their field.
The festivities began at 5 p.m. at Memorial Park, well before the fires were lit on the river. The centerpiece of the evening was an awards ceremony specifically for the honored teachers. This was followed by a formal torch procession, a signature element of WaterFire ceremonies, allowing the educators to be at the heart of the experience.
According to event officials, close to 85 educators from across the state were in attendance. This group included District Teachers of the Year and others who have received accolades for their outstanding work and dedication to students.
What is WaterFire?
WaterFire Providence is a well-known public art installation created by Barnaby Evans. The event consists of more than 80 bonfires lit on the surface of the three rivers that pass through downtown Providence. Accompanied by music, the sensory experience draws large crowds and has become a symbol of the city's cultural life.
Students Showcase Skills to Honor Teachers
A unique aspect of the celebration was the deep involvement of students from career and technical education (CTE) programs throughout Rhode Island. Instead of relying on external vendors, organizers collaborated with schools to give students hands-on experience while contributing to a meaningful community event.
Culinary Arts and Hospitality
The catering for the teachers' reception was managed entirely by culinary students and their chef instructors. This provided a platform for aspiring chefs to plan, prepare, and serve food for a large-scale event, showcasing the skills learned in their CTE programs.
Cosmetology and Creative Services
Students from Providence's cosmetology programs were also on hand to offer services to guests. They provided mini manicures, face painting, and hair braiding, adding a festive and interactive element to the reception. This allowed them to practice their client service and technical skills in a real-world setting.
Design and Construction
Behind the scenes, carpentry and graphic design students played a crucial role. Officials noted that these students designed and produced signage and other decorative items for the celebration. This practical application of their skills helped create a professional and welcoming atmosphere for the honored educators.
Spotlight on CTE Programs
Career and technical education programs are designed to provide students with academic knowledge and practical skills for specific career paths. The involvement in the WaterFire event demonstrates a successful model of project-based learning, where students apply their training to support a major public celebration.
The Importance of Recognition
The event was more than just a ceremony; it was a powerful statement of support for the teaching profession. Participants emphasized how meaningful it was to be recognized at such a prominent and beloved Rhode Island event.
"Waterfire is so quintessential Rhode Island. And this is just a very small way that educators are recognized at this pivotal Rhode Island Event," said Sarah Dully, the 2026 Rhode Island Teacher of the Year. "And it's so wonderful that we have all of these schools here that are showcasing what they do. And when you feel supported, you can be the best for your students."
Dully's comments reflect a broader sentiment within the education community about the importance of morale and public appreciation. By integrating the celebration into a major cultural event, organizers aimed to elevate the status of teachers and acknowledge their vital role in shaping the state's future.
The Main Event Lighting
Following the pre-lighting ceremonies and receptions, the main WaterFire event began. The lighting of the braziers on the river was scheduled for approximately 6:30 p.m., shortly after sunset. This allowed the honored teachers and all other attendees to enjoy the full artistic spectacle that has made WaterFire a regional attraction.
The dedication of a full lighting to educators underscores a commitment from community partners to celebrate and support the state's teaching professionals. The collaborative effort, especially the involvement of CTE students, created a multi-layered event that honored the past, present, and future of education in Rhode Island.
