Crystal Bozigian is one of two educators who have been recognized as a 2024 Civic Education Teacher of the Year in Rhode Island. Photo Credit: Crystal Bozigian

Congratulations to Crystal Bozigian. She has been recognized as one of two educators in the state of Rhode Island who have been named a 2024 Civics Education Teacher of the Year. The other is Shannon Gormley, a teacher at Central High School in Providence.

Crystal teaches at North Providence High School, her own alma mater. She has taught at the school for the past 17 years. There she instructs courses in American history, civics, American studies, psychology, and Hollywood history. She also serves as the Chair of the Social Studies Department, a position she has held since 2017.

Crystal plays an instrumental role in civics curriculum development and integration in her school’s educational program. She has organized Student Government Day activities on her campus, and Project Close Up in Washington, DC, where students are given opportunities to voice their opinions, share their ideas, and witness democracy in action.

“Democracy is not a spectator sport, and our students must understand their role to be informed, responsible, and actively engaged citizens,” declares Crystal. “Our students are our future, and I am honored to lead and learn with my students daily in the classroom and throughout the community at large,” she continues.

Crystal earned her Bachelor’s degree in History and Secondary Education at Providence College in 2007. She earned a Master’s degree in American Media and Popular Culture from Arizona State University in 2015. She earned a second Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and administration from Providence College in 2022.

The Civics Education Teacher of the Year award honors outstanding teachers who have demonstrated a commitment to and expertise in teaching civics or American government. In selecting the winners, special consideration is given to teachers who employ innovative teaching practices and experiential learning.