Lauren Francese, grades 6-12 Coordinator of Social Studies, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Pamela Bellmore Gardner Social Studies Leadership Award by the Connecticut Council for the Social Studies.

This distinguished award recognizes administrators who demonstrate exceptional support for social studies education across elementary, middle, and high school settings. Dr. Francese was selected through a rigorous nomination process that required letters of support from educators and social studies colleagues highlighting her significant contributions to the field.

During her tenure at Westport Public Schools, Dr. Francese has consistently championed innovative social studies instruction and curriculum development. Her leadership has fostered a spirit of inquiry among both teachers and students, emphasizing the development of critical thinking skills essential for understanding complex social issues.

"Lauren exemplifies what it means to be a true educational leader," said Thomas Scarice, Superintendent of Westport Public Schools. "What sets her apart is her ability to not only develop curriculum that challenges students intellectually, but to create authentic learning experiences that connect them to their community and the wider world. This recognition is well-deserved and reflects the positive impact she has on our entire district."

Dr. Francese's has been instrumental in developing grade-appropriate learning experiences that encourage student participation in classroom, school, and community settings. Under her guidance, Westport students have engaged in civic learning projects that extend beyond textbooks, allowing them to experience democratic processes firsthand.

Her professional involvement in social studies education extends throughout Connecticut, where she has contributed to workshops, curriculum development initiatives, and various committees aimed at advancing social studies instruction statewide.

Westport Public Schools congratulates Dr. Francese on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her continued dedication to excellence in social studies education.

About the Pamela Bellmore Gardner Social Studies Leadership Award

The Pamela Bellmore Gardner Social Studies Leadership Award was established to recognize administrators who provide exceptional support for social studies education. Recipients demonstrate commitment to innovative instruction, fostering democratic values, and advancing the field of social studies education in Connecticut.