DAR Outstanding Teacher of American History

Michelle Salisbury of Seekonk High School was recently recognized by the Attleboro Chapter Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) as Outstanding Teacher of American History for the 2025-2026 school year. This award is given annually to a notable local, full-time teacher of American History or related fields in grades 5-12, who fosters a spirit of patriotism, has an inclusive knowledge of American History, and shares it readily with others while securing America’s future through better education and understanding. Mrs. Salisbury has consistently exhibited these qualities throughout her 25 years teaching at Seekonk High.

As a dedicated teacher and life-long learner, she has continually updated her knowledge and skills beyond a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and History from Rhode Island College. She has earned two Masters degrees from Providence College, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Integrative Studies at Northeastern University.

As an exceptional educator, Mrs. Salisbury has made it her mission to lead by example and teach her students the relevance of American ideals and values – liberty, democracy, equality, individual rights, and civic responsibility, to help shape informed, engaged, and contributing citizens. She demonstrates the ability to connect historical content to the complexities of today’s world, make history meaningful and help students relate past and present events to their own experiences. She provides all resources necessary to ensure her students are active and successful learners. Mrs. Salisbury encourages students to think critically, speak their minds and consider others’ opinions. She is a consistent role model for her students, instilling examples of what it means to have a positive attitude, and preserve and engage in hard work, and thereby, be a responsible citizen.

Michelle has been described by others “as an individual who exudes passion for the field of history, is extremely talented at bringing history alive and holds high standards for all students and colleagues in their responsibility of being valued citizens, serving their community.”

As a result of Mrs. Salisbury’s life-long achievements and dedication to the teaching of American History, she has also been named Massachusetts’ Outstanding Teacher of American History and will also be honored at the DAR State Conference.

This distinction of being named the state’s Outstanding Teacher makes her eligible to compete at the national level.