Rhode Island PBS today announced the selection of Central Falls High School teacher David Upegui, Ph.D., to the 2022 class of PBS Digital Innovator All-Stars. The program honors classroom changemakers who offer fresh ideas and bold approaches to supporting their students’ growth and learning. Nominated by Rhode Island PBS, Dr. Upegui joins 19 other educators nominated by their local public television stations from across the country.
The PBS Digital Innovator All-Star program brings together a community of PreK-12th grade educators who are innovators and leaders both in and outside of the classroom. Specifically, Digital Innovator All-Stars are selected from a cohort of educators who are doing extraordinary work supporting student learning by integrating media and digital technology in their teaching environments and inspiring students to use these tools in responsible, effective and empowering ways.
Dr. Upegui, a Latino immigrant who found his way out of poverty through science, has taught for more than 12 years at his alma mater, Central Falls High School in Central Falls, Rhode Island. He teaches 11th and 12th-grade AP Biology, inclusion biology and Medical Interventions, and works as a coach with new teachers.
“David embodies the qualities of education excellence that make him an exemplary choice for the PBS Digital All-Star award,” said David W. Piccerelli, president of Rhode Island PBS. “We are thrilled to recognize David for his extraordinary work and dedication to his students and colleagues at Central Falls High School.”
PBS Digital Innovator All-Stars will spend the 2022-2023 school years deepening engagement among students, families, educators, schools, and their local PBS stations.
"Being selected for this national program elevates the voices of my students,” Dr. Upegui said. “As I often tell them, the universe is not stingy with talents, and it is our collective responsibility to develop the skills needed to solve the problems of the world.”
When asked about his goals for the next two years, Dr. Upegui replied, “I want to focus on ways for students to situate their learning in our society utilizing the media resources offered by PBS, as well as developing structures that enable students to be creators of media so that their thoughts and ideas are shared with others."
Dr. Upegui’s personal philosophy and inclusive approach to science education have enabled students to become problem-solvers and innovative thinkers. He has a keen ability to engage students in learning, exploring, and contributing to science. Upegui started the school's Science Olympiad team and created multiple academic opportunities for students to engage in science in and out of the classroom.
“We were proud to nominate David and are delighted he was chosen for this honor,” said Colleen Kenyon, manager of Rhode Island PBS Education Services. “His passion for education and the community of Central Falls is inspirational. We look forward to collaborating with David throughout his two-year term."
Dr. Upegui completed his doctoral degree in education at the University of Rhode Island, focusing on science education and social justice. Among his professional awards, he received NABT’s Evolution Education Award in 2014, the Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence in 2013, Rhode Island College Alumni Honor Roll Award in 2014, the Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence in 2013, Latino Public Radio Outstanding Achievement in 2013, and Rhode Island Department of Education’s Golden Apple in 2012. He also received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2019 (2017 cohort).