TAUNTON - Superintendent John J. Cabral is pleased to share that Taunton High School English Teacher Maureen Farias was recognized at the Massachusetts State House for the annual Black Excellence on the Hill event by the Black and Latino Caucus on Friday, March 29.
Farias was nominated by Rep. Carol Doherty to represent the Third Bristol District for her work as the advisor to the African American Club at Taunton High School.
The Black Excellence on the Hill event “celebrates Black culture, achievement, creativity and excellence of individuals statewide,” wrote Doherty in her nomination for Farias. “This will serve as an opportunity to celebrate the leaders who make our communities thrive. I am delighted to have nominated Ms. Farias for this prestigious award.”
“It brings me great joy to be honored for my work with and on behalf of the students of Taunton,” said Farias. “The big picture, the vision, is always to provide educational opportunities for all students to learn about Black individuals who have positively contributed to our country in the past, are currently working as change makers here in the present, and are meaningfully innovating for our collective future. I appreciate this recognition; it means so much to me and my students.”
Under Farias’ leadership, the African American Club has partnered with organizations like the Taunton Diversity Network. She also organizes the club’s annual Sickle Cell Fundraiser and Walk benefiting the Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association. Club members also have additional learning opportunities like walking the Black Heritage Trail or visiting the Museum of Fine Arts or the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center.
Farias is also a Taunton alumna and started her teaching career as a substitute teacher before being appointed as a full-time English teacher in 2016. “Ms Farias was an excellent student when I was her principal at Friedman Middle School and her experiences as a student in our district have shaped her approach as a teacher,” Superintendent Cabral said. “She is dedicated to her students and to creating a
positive, welcoming environment where they can thrive."
Farias was one of 74 honorees and was supported at the ceremony by family and friends, along with the
Dwuye family including Condoleeza, ‘24, African American Club president and Calvinne, ‘26, African American Club treasurer.
Governor Maura Healey spoke at the ceremony and the keynote address was delivered by Rev. Clyde Talley, Senior Pastor at Belmont A.M.E Zion Church and President and CEO of Yes We Care, inc.