General Treasurer Seth Magaziner yesterday paid a surprise visit to the North Providence High School classroom of Anthony Avicolli, naming him Rhode Island's Financial Literacy Educator of the Year.
"I am grateful that Rhode Island has dedicated teachers like Mr. Avicolli, for whom teaching is more than a job. Both inside the classroom and while volunteering, Mr. Avicolli teach life skills that his students need to succeed; from balancing your checking account to completing a college financial aid form," said Treasurer Magaziner. "It is my pleasure to honor him as Financial Literacy Educator of the Year."
In addition to his role as business teacher, Mr. Avicolli operates the Cougar Cage, the high school's store. He also volunteers his time at sporting events, drama productions and the school's annual open house event; working with students on advertising, marketing, and other skills business skills.
Treasurer Magaziner was joined for the surprise visit by North Providence Mayor Charles A. Lombardi and North Providence High School Principal Joseph B. Goho, along with Mr. Avicolli's wife, Deb Avicolli.
"Mr. Avicolli's knowledge and expertise is admirable, particularly when he relates his own business experience to students, which gives context to why financial literacy is vital to succeed." said Kathleen M. Lisi, who serves as Business Department Chair at North Providence High School and nominated Mr. Avicolli for the award.
"After taking Mr. Avicolli's class last year, I have a better idea of my finances," wrote one student in support of Mr. Avicolli's nomination for the award. "I highly recommend his class."
The Financial Literacy Educator of the Year award recognizes teachers who excel in and out of the classroom to provide their students with the financial literacy skills they need to successfully navigate our complex financial system. Previous honorees include East Greenwich High School teacher Patricia Page, and Richard Garland, who teaches at North Kingstown High School.
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Contact:
Evan England, Director of Communications (401) 222-2240 | (401) 439-2199 (mobile) evan.england@treasury.ri.gov
