CONCORD, NH (October 2, 2024) — Candice DeAngelis, a teacher at Bedford High School in Bedford, was named New Hampshire’s 2025 Teacher of the Year during a surprise celebration on Wednesday.
Selected from a pool of 331 nominees, DeAngelis was chosen for her contagious energy in the classroom, her ability to fully engage students and her wide-reaching ability to make learning a foreign language fun for her students.
DeAngelis has taught for 18 years. Since 2016, she has worked as a Spanish teacher at Bedford High School. Earlier in her career, DeAngelis worked at Sanborn Regional High School in Kingston as a Spanish teacher, as well as a temporary position at Londonderry High School teaching Spanish.
“Those who know Señora DeAngelis best describe her as empathetic, approachable, dedicated and the perfect role model. Today, we are celebrating and recognizing this esteemed educator who has consistently gone above and beyond to create and display enthusiasm for each and every lesson in the classroom,” said Frank Edelblut, education commissioner. “DeAngelis, who embodies the essence of what it means to be an outstanding teacher, will now serve as an ambassador for all of the excellent educators throughout the state. We are lucky to have a teacher whose energy is contagious and whose extraordinary efforts have made learning Spanish both entertaining and effective.”
According to Superintendent Mike Fournier of the Bedford School District, DeAngelis is an exemplary educator who demonstrates a deep commitment to her students. “Her dedication to creating a positive and nurturing environment makes her a true asset to our school district. She is not only a treasure to our community, but also an inspiration to every student she teaches,” said Fournier.
In her application essay, DeAngelis wrote, “I am a believer in telling students how much I appreciate them and creating silly moments within my teaching, all while immersing my students in language and curiosity for learning,” adding learning is more than just a subject matter. “I also teach grit, perseverance and curiosity that lead to deep-rooted self-motivation,” said DeAngelis, who will now be in the running for the National Teacher of the Year.
At the beginning of December, the semi-finalists, finalists and DeAngelis will be invited to a Leadership in Education Banquet to celebrate their accomplishments along with other distinguished educators in the Granite State.
“Candice is a great representative of the outstanding staff I get to work with every day,” said Principal Bob Jozokos of Bedford High School. “She is a professional, engaging, student-centered educator and I am so proud of her.”
Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner of education, echoed those sentiments. “Her positive impact extends far beyond the classroom, and it’s clear that Candice is not only an exceptional educator, but also a mentor and role model to her students and colleagues,” said Brennan. “Each year we are impressed with the number of high-quality applicants considered throughout the rigorous Teacher of the Year selection process. This recognition is a true testament to Candice’s dedication, passion and hard work in shaping the minds and hearts of her students.”
