AGAWAM — Lauren Cousineau, Jonathan Hagopian, Kim Smith and John Viens got good — but unexpected — news in late February when they were selected for a 2025 Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award.
They were among 60 Agawam teachers nominated for the award for their exceptional teaching skills. They will be formally recognized at an award dinner and banquet May 7 at The Log Cabin in Holyoke.
More than 100 teachers from Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties will receive this award from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation and the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation. During the past 22 years, more than 1,000 teachers have been honored.
Never in her “wildest dreams” had Cousineau imagined she would become a teacher. She didn’t enjoy school as a child, but when Cousineau took an occupation personality test in a college psychology class, it revealed her highest match was being a teacher.
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A preschool teacher, Cousineau joined the Early Childhood Center staff in 2006. “The test made me realize I could make a difference and help kids love coming to school. My mission is to set a positive tone for their first school experience to help ensure a lifelong love of learning.”
Children come to the ECC with varying levels of skills and abilities — some not walking/talking — but most leave running, communicating through gestures, pictures or assistive technology, using their words to get their wants and needs met, socialize and play with others, said Cousineau.
“Some of my proudest moments are seeing the kids’ firsts — steps, words, interactions, etc. — and the amount of growth throughout the time they’re in our program,” she added.
Being recognized for this prestigious award is something Cousineau will never forget. “It means a lot to me. I’m truly dedicated to the kids, staff and families of my classroom community. I advocate for them, come in early, stay late.”
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Hagopian loves connecting with his students and helping them discover their own meaningful connection to music. “Not every student walks into my class expecting to love music, but I strive to create different ways for them to engage — whether it’s strumming a ukulele, experimenting with the keyboard or composing their own tracks.”
A general music teacher at AJHS since 2012, Hagopian said there’s something truly rewarding about watching a student’s face light up when they finally play a song they recognize or create a beat that sounds just right to them. “Music is a deeply personal experience. My goal is to help every student find something that resonates with them and makes them feel accomplished, creative and inspired.”
While he enjoys working with all of his students, Hagopian said some of his proudest moments have been working with special education students in the Aspire program. “They’re truly the kindest students, and I feel incredibly grateful to be their teacher. I enjoy finding creative ways to engage them and make music an exciting and accessible experience.”
Hagopian said this award is a testament to his resilience and a tribute to those who have supported him along the way. “Without them, I wouldn’t be in a place where I can do my best work. Their support helped me grow as an educator. I’m incredibly grateful to be recognized with this honor.”
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Now in her fourth year as a special education inclusion teacher at AHS, Smith said the best part of her day is interacting with students. “I look forward to seeing them every day. I love when I get to be a part of a student’s ‘Aha’ moment. One of the best feelings I’ve experienced as a teacher is when a student reaches out to thank me and tell me they wouldn’t have made it without my support and encouragement,” Smith said.
Smith, who began her teaching career in 1998, said being recognized with this award is significant because it highlights the dedication, innovation and impact teachers have on students and the broader community.
“It also reinforces the idea that excellence in education deserves to be recognized and celebrated while encouraging continuous professional growth,” Smith said.
She wants to share her award and honor her team members, “my dedicated colleagues, who assist, inspire and uplift me every day” by inviting them to join her at the award ceremony. “I’m extremely lucky to have such wonderful professionals and friends on my team. I love my job and I’m grateful for the supportive team who help make a difference in these children’s lives.”
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Viens, a special education teacher at Phelps Elementary School, said what he likes best about being a teacher is the opportunity to make a lasting impact on his students’ lives.
“Every day, I get to help them grow, not just academically, but as individuals. Watching them overcome challenges and develop a sense of pride in their own progress is incredibly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to know that I’m not only teaching content but also fostering a love of learning, helping students build confidence and equipping them with the skills they need for the future,” he said.
Viens began his education career in Agawam in 2017 as a special education educational support professional. In 2022, he transitioned to a classroom teacher in the same program where he was previously an ESP.
Working with students facing social-emotional and behavioral challenges, Veins said some of his proudest moments come when he sees emotional growth in students and witnesses their increasing ability to regulate their emotions. “Knowing I’ve played a part in helping them grow, not only academically, but emotionally, is one of the greatest rewards of my career.”
Viens said his award reflects his growth as an educator and the positive impact he’s had on his students’ development. “It recognizes the hard work, dedication and commitment to supporting my students, particularly those with unique needs. It also highlights the value of educators and the impact they make in the teaching profession and serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and investing in teachers who shape future generations.”
