Derby Writing Teacher Receives Fulbright U.S. Teacher Award

Information via Derby Public Schools

DERBY, CT — Kelly Anroman, an eighth-grade writing teacher at Derby Middle School, was recently awarded the Fulbright U.S. Teacher Exchange Award for the 2024-2025 academic year.

According to a news release provided by Derby Public Schools, this recognition is part of the Fulbright Teachers for Global Classroom Program and is conferred by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.

Superintendent Matthew Conway Jr. said he was thrilled to congratulate Anroman on behalf of the school district.

"This recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication to her profession and relentless drive for continuous learning," Conway said in a news release. "Her participation in this program will not only enrich her own professional journey but will also bring invaluable insights and perspectives back to our classrooms, benefiting both our students and the Derby family. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and excited to see the impact her experience will have on our schools the district and the many children she serves."

Anroman said she was "deeply humbled and honored" to receive the prestigious award.

"This opportunity allows me to enhance my teaching practice and collaborate with educators worldwide," Anroman said in a news release. "I look forward to bringing back valuable insights and experiences that will benefit both my students and the wider Derby community."

Anroman is one of over 800 distinguished U.S. citizens selected to participate in the Fulbright Program this year, which promotes global collaboration through teaching, research, and cultural exchange.

This program allows educators to engage in cutting-edge international work, build professional networks, and forge long-term partnerships that transcend national borders, according to the school district.

Upon returning, participants contribute to their home institutions and local communities by integrating global perspectives into their classrooms and fostering international exchange.

"We are incredibly proud of Kelly for being selected for this prestigious award," Derby Middle School Principal Rachael Caggiano said in a news release. "The Fulbright Program's mission to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other nations aligns perfectly with our vision for global education. We look forward to seeing how her participation in this program will enrich our school community."

Daniel Foley, a Board of Education member and Anroman's father, also expressed his pride in seeing his daughter receive the award.

"As both a Board of Education member and Kelly's father, I know how significant this award is," Foley said in a news release. "My wife and I are incredibly proud of Kelly’s accomplishment, which reflects her dedication to her students and her profession. Derby is fortunate to have her."

Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program is the U.S. government's flagship international educational exchange initiative, funded by the U.S. Congress and supported by various international partners.

Each year, the program selects educators, artists, and professionals to participate in transformative exchanges aimed at addressing global challenges and fostering cross-cultural understanding, according to the district.

"Kelly's achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Derby Public Schools," Derby Board of Education Chair Jim Gildea said in a news release. "Her commitment to her students and our community is evident in her work, and this award further highlights her exceptional contributions. On behalf of the Board of Education, we extend our heartfelt congratulations."

More information about the Fulbright Program is available at fulbrightprogram.org.