Christina O’Brien Receives 2025 Rhode Island History Teacher of the Year
Award-winning educator receives $1,000 prize, a curated collection of classroom resources, and a chance at the national title from The Gilder Lehrman Institute
Christina O’Brien
(Providence, RI) Christina O’Brien, a teacher at North Providence High School, has been named the 2025 Rhode Island History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Since 2004, this distinguished award has recognized exceptional K–12 educators for their remarkable work in teaching American history.
“History teachers play an essential role in helping students understand the past, build critical thinking skills, and develop a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped our nation,” says James G. Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “We are proud to recognize educators who go above and beyond to make history engaging, meaningful, and relevant in their classrooms.”
The annual recognition program, presented by the Gilder Lehrman Institute—the nation’s leading nonprofit for K–12 American history education—celebrates one outstanding teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. Territories. It recognizes educators for their dedication, creativity, and effective use of primary sources. Nominees are recommended by students, colleagues, or school leaders and selected by state committees of historians and educators.
Christina (Tina) O’Brien, a proud Rhode Island History and American History teacher, will be celebrating seventeen years at North Providence High School. Described by her peers as a passionate educator, she crafts her curriculum by balancing rigor and relevance. Fueled by her love of traveling, she enriches classroom content with experiential learning through field trips. Tina also designs innovative lessons and has collaborated with RI PBS, RI Writing Project, Mystic Seaport, and the Blackstone Valley Historical Society. With two BAs from the University of Rhode Island and an M.Ed from Rhode Island College, she’s thrilled to inspire students and educators alike.
As the 2025 Rhode Island History Teacher of the Year, O’Brien will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a curated collection of American history books and educational materials from the Gilder Lehrman Institute, and recognition at a local ceremony. They will also join 52 other honorees as a finalist for the 2025 National History Teacher of the Year Award.
The national winner will be announced this fall at a special ceremony at the Harvard Club of New York City and will receive a $10,000 grand prize. To view the full list of 2025 state honorees, please visit [https://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-teacher-year/state-winners].
About The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History
Founded in 1994 by Richard Gilder and Lewis E. Lehrman, visionaries and lifelong supporters of American history education, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K–12 history education while also serving the general public. The Institute’s mission is to promote the knowledge and understanding of American history through educational programs and resources.
At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. Drawing on the 86,000 documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection and an extensive network of eminent historians, the Institute provides teachers, students, and the general public with access to unique primary source materials.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations. The Institute’s programs have been recognized by awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Organization of American Historians, the Council of Independent Colleges, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Learn more at gilderlehrman.org.
About the Rhode Island Historical Society
The Rhode Island Historical Society, the state’s oldest and only state-wide historical organization, welcomes everyone to engage with Rhode Island’s complex and significant past through its collections, museums, and educational initiatives. Founded in 1822, the RIHS is an advocate for history as a means to develop empathy and 21st-century skills, using its historical materials and knowledge to explore topics of timeless relevance and public interest.
As a Smithsonian Affiliate, it is dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible public programming and educational opportunities for all Rhode Islanders through its four sites: the John Brown House Museum, the Museum of Work & Culture, the Mary Elizabeth Robinson Research Center, and the Aldrich House.
The headquarters of the Rhode Island Historical Society are located at 110 Benevolent Street, Providence, RI 02906. Information: (401) 331-8575. Website: rihs.org. Follow the RIHS on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.