Francis Simanski

We at Ted. would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the life of an inspiring teacher of history,  a dedicated principal of Tantasqua High School for 18 years, and for the last six years a greatly valued member of the Tantasqua Regional School Committee. During his educational career, Mr. Simanski received a National Science Foundation Grant, the Sturbridge Rotary Club Russell A. Burton “Service Above Self” Award, and in 2004 was recognized for Excellence in Teaching with the William Spratt Award.

Superintendent Dan Durgin said, ““Fran put his heart and soul into the overall well being and education of all students at Tantasqua.  He will be fondly remembered for his dedication, honesty and work ethic.”

The many friends, neighbors and colleagues he touched and brought laughter to were grateful to have known him, but his central devotion as an educator was always to students. He embodied in everything he did W.B. Yeats famous line, “Education is not filling a bucket, but lighting a fire.”