Committee members formally recognized Susan Colenta at the meeting, naming her the 2026 secondary art educator of the year and the 2026 Rhode Island art educator of the year. Speaker 2 described Colenta as "a long time art teacher at Lincoln High School" who "has brought excellence, in exemplary practices to the classroom."

Speaker 2 and the Chair praised her willingness to "go above and beyond" for students and noted her service on the executive board of the Art Education Association, which previously affected eligibility for certain recognitions.

No formal board action beyond recognition was recorded; the committee continued with the meeting’s operational agenda after offering congratulations.