Meet the finalists for 2025 NH teacher of the year

Four teachers have been named finalists for the 2025 New Hampshire teacher of the year award.

The teachers were nominated by peers, by parents, and students. Teachers can also apply to the award themselves. 

A winner will be announced in October by the teacher of the year selection committee, composed of the first lady of the state, former teachers of the year, the deputy commissioner of education or designee, a U.S. Senate youth program delegate, a local business representative, and the NH teacher of the year coordinator. 

The committee will first observe the teachers in the classroom in September and interview school personnel, community members, parents and students, and the finalists before picking a winner. 

To win, the teacher must be dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled in the classroom. They should also be confident, well-spoken, and have the energy to handle a busy schedule.

“These four teachers are leaders in the field of education, with each of them understanding the need for school improvement, student engagement, bold visions, and collective experience,” said Christine Brennan, deputy commissioner and member of the teacher of the year selection committee. “Each year we are proud to recognize these true champions in education, and we are thrilled to showcase their passion and talent in the classroom,” she said.

Here are the finalists:

Chelsea Barrett Viera is a grade 2-4 teacher in a self-contained autism classroom at Highland Goffe’s Falls Elementary School in Manchester. With 15 years of teaching experience, Barrett Viera emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of community within her classroom. “My approach to learning is rooted in fostering a sense of community within my classroom, ensuring that students are deeply connected to the world around them, and utilizing standards and data to inform and enhance instruction,” said Barrett Viera.

Kristen Dacey is a first-grade teacher at Dr. Lewis F. Soule School in Salem, also with 15 years of teaching experience. Dacey believes in the power of positivity and resilience. “I wholeheartedly believe that if we teach our students to strive for great days, to trust that there is sun on the other side of the clouds – even if we can’t see it – and to remember that challenging moments don’t define an entire day, then we will have succeeded,” said Dacey.

Candice DeAngelis is a Spanish teacher at Bedford High School in Bedford with 18 years of teaching experience. DeAngelis focuses on creating a fun and engaging learning environment. “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,” said DeAngelis.

Brian Gray is a business technology and social studies teacher at Sanborn Regional High School in Sanborn. This fall, he will begin a new position as a technology teacher at Hampton Academy. With 16 years of teaching experience, Gray is dedicated to connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. “I am passionate about bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences, ensuring that my students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving society,” said Gray.