2026 RIFLA Awards Winners

RIFLA Student of the Year 2026

 

Iris Yang of Barrington High School has been named Student of the Year. Iris exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and a passion for learning that inspires both peers and faculty alike. Iris is an outstanding and highly motivated student known for her excellence in French, strong academic performance, and commitment to global citizenship. She is a fluent, advanced language learner and a natural leader who supports and inspires her peers. Beyond the classroom, she has earned top honors on national exams, achieved the Seal of Biliteracy, and actively promotes cultural understanding through leadership in her school’s French Club. She is also accomplished in activities like figure skating and piano. Iris will attend Harvard University to study mathematics while continuing her passion for French.

RIFLA Teacher of the Year 2025

RIFLA has named Elaine Cardin the 2025 Teacher of the Year in recognition of her outstanding   dedication, innovation, and leadership in world language education. With over 25 years of   experience teaching Spanish at all grade levels, Cardin currently teaches at Barrington High   School. Her leadership within the school, district, and broader professional community reflects   her deep commitment to language learning, cultural understanding, and educational excellence.

RIFLA College Study Stipend 2026

Jaymori Leonard, student at University of Rhode Island, has been awarded the College Study Stipend in recognition of academic promise and future potential. He was nomiated by his professor  Inspired by childhood visits to family in Saint Martin, Jaymori has turned a personal challenge into a powerful academic and professional goal. Growing up, language barriers made it difficult to fully connect with relatives—especially a French-speaking grandmother—sparking a determination to become fluent in French and strengthen those important relationships.

Since middle school, Jaymori has studied French and is now continuing that journey at the collegiate level. To reach full fluency, he plans to participate in an immersive study-abroad experience in France through the International Engineering Program. This unique opportunity will allow him to combine his passion for engineering with advanced language study.

Beyond academics and career goals, this journey holds deep personal meaning. Achieving fluency in French will allow Jaymori to connect more fully with family, understand their grandmother’s stories, and strengthen ties to their cultural heritage. We wish Jaymori continued success in their educational journey.

RIFLA Middle School Poster Award 2026

Ximena Hernandez Tlatenchi of Westerly Middle School (via Ide Koulbanis) has been named the winner of the Middle School Poster Contest. Her submission impressed judges with its originality, thoughtful design, and strong visual impact. Ximena’s work demonstrates both creativity and careful planning, making it a standout among many talented entries. We applaud her accomplishment and commend her for this outstanding contribution.

RIFLA Elementary School Poster Award 2026

Stella Gervasini, representing State Street Elementary School in Westerly (via Dori Carpenter), has been honored as this year’s Elementary Poster Contest winner. Her artwork stood out for its creativity, vibrant expression, and attention to detail. Stella’s poster reflects both imagination and effort, uniquely capturing the spirit of the contest and engaging viewers. We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition and celebrate her artistic achievement.

RIFLA Novice Teacher of the Year 2026

Laudi Cabrera Alvarez has been selected as Novice Teacher of the Year. Through innovation, enthusiasm, and a strong dedication to students, Laudi has quickly made a remarkable impression in the classroom. In her first year teaching Spanish 1 at E-Cubed High School Academy in Providence. Laudi has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and student success.

 Lee Stetson Professional Development Stipend 2026

The Lee Stetson Professional Development Award was established to honor the legacy of Lee Stetson and his belief that outstanding educators are lifelong learners. Now in its second year, the award recognizes teachers who demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and to expanding opportunities for their students. Thanks to the continued generosity of Peter and Denise Stetson, Lee’s passion for education and learning continues to inspire and support educators in our community.

The 2026 recipient of the Lee Stetson Professional Development Award is Meagan Olson of Westerly High School. Recognizing a need within her department, Meagan chose to pursue Italian certification to help expand language-learning opportunities for students at her school. With only one Italian teacher currently on staff, her initiative and dedication reflect the collaborative spirit, leadership, and commitment to lifelong learning that this award was created to celebrate.