At the time she was recognized as Rhode Island Teacher of the Year, she had been teaching in the North Kingstown schools for 9 years. Barbara originally became involved in teaching as a parent volunteer in the North Kingstown schools. Her experience there inspired her to pursue a degree in education. As an educator she is known as a team-builder with a commitment to working with teachers and parents to improve student learning. Barbara earned a Bachelors degree from the University of Rhode Island and a Masters in Teaching Secondary Mathematics from Providence College.