Easton Public Schools Teacher Steven Cerce to be Honored as an ‘aMAzing Educator’

Veteran eighth grade math teacher Steven Cerce will be honored as an “aMAzing Educator” by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. (Photo Courtesy Easton Public Schools)

EASTON — Superintendent Dr. Lisha Cabral and Easton Middle School Principal R. Luke Carroll are thrilled to announce that longtime math teacher Steven Cerce will be honored as an “aMAzing Educator” by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

“Mr. Cerce is a veteran eighth-grade math teacher at Easton Middle School who brings both expertise and heart to his classroom every day,” said Principal Carroll. “With years of experience under his belt, Steve has built a reputation for being consistently positive and genuinely student-centered. He speaks highly of his students, celebrating their growth and potential, and approaches each day with enthusiasm and dedication.”

Cerce is a dedicated math teacher with more than 25 years of experience. He is known for his passion for problem-solving and his constant drive to take on new challenges.

With more than 45 seasons as a junior varsity softball and soccer coach, he has also left a lasting impact on his teams.

Cerce volunteers with School on Wheels of Massachusetts, showing his commitment to giving back to the community. And outside of the classroom, he enjoys playing softball and engaging in strategy games with friends, always seeking to challenge himself further.

Cerce was one of four teachers named as finalists for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). He’s the only math teacher among the finalists — the other three are science teachers.

“I was originally nominated for this award by a parent, so I am appreciative for the nomination,” said Cerce. “I am especially appreciative of all my colleagues that have inspired me and challenged me to do better. We need to recognize more of our hard working and dedicated teachers. I will be paying it forward and nominating other math and science teachers in Easton for the next award cycle.”

DESE will honor this year’s award-winning educators during an evening event on Tuesday, May 13, at the Devens Conference Center, 31 Andrews Parkway in Devens.

Each educator can bring up to three guests to the reception (in addition to their principal and superintendent).

“Congratulations on all that you and your students have achieved!” Interim Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education Patrick Tutwiler wrote to Cerce in the letter informing the teacher that he was a finalist.

Each year, DESE and partner organizations recognize a small number of outstanding educators from across the Commonwealth in five categories — Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, Massachusetts History Teacher of the Year, Massachusetts Milken Educator, Distinguished Educators and the PAEMST.

Cerce graduated from Boston College with a degree in Philosophy and later earned his Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics from Bridgewater State University. His entire teaching career has been dedicated to Easton, where he has made a lasting impact on both students and colleagues alike.

“What truly sets Steve apart is his collaborative spirit,” said Principal Carroll. “Whether he’s teaming up with colleagues on interdisciplinary projects or offering support and ideas during team meetings, Steve is always willing to lend a hand. He’s the kind of educator who makes everyone around him better — easy to talk to, a great listener, and someone you’re always happy to work alongside. Steve’s warmth, professionalism, and unwavering belief in his students make him a valued member of the EMS community. We’re lucky to have him!”

Superintendent Dr. Cabral wished Cerce a heartfelt “Congratulations!”

“This is a wonderful honor and certainly well-deserved,” said Superintendent Dr. Cabral. “In a time when educators do not always receive the thoughtful recognition they deserve, this DESE program is greatly appreciated. Mr. Cerce does an outstanding job, day-in and day-out with professionalism, dedication, and compassion. We are fortunate to have the team we do in Easton, and Mr. Cerce is a great example of how they go above and beyond for our students both inside and outside of the classroom.”

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