Cumberland honors support professional of the year and cites 148-pair shoe donation from Casey’s Kicks
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Summary
The committee presented Christina Tomasi as the 2026 District Education Support Professional of the Year and acknowledged a partnership with Rhode Island nonprofit Casey’s Kicks that donated 148 pairs of shoes to Cumberland students.
At its Nov. 13 meeting, the Cumberland School Committee recognized Christina Tomasi as the 2026 District Education Support Professional of the Year and announced a large nonprofit donation that benefited district students.
Dr. Thornton invited an announcer to present the district award; the committee said Christina Tomasi will be added to the perpetual plaque in recognition of her support work. The presenter noted staff nominations and described Tomasi’s reach into the student community.
Ms. Shay reported that Casey’s Kicks, a Rhode Island nonprofit inspired by alumnus Casey Contrada and coordinated locally with founder Kayla, donated 148 pairs of shoes to Cumberland students — the district’s largest single donation from that program. Ms. Shay thanked staff and community partners for supporting the effort.
Nut graf: The meeting combined a personnel recognition with a community partnership announcement that provided direct material assistance to students in need and highlighted staff contributions to student well-being.
Details: The award presentation and the nonprofit partnership were described in the superintendent’s report segment; the record cites the donation quantity (148) and that the partnership was arranged over the summer.