Scholarship Honors Former Lincoln Elementary School Teacher

Lincoln Elementary School Principal Kate Scanlon recently announced the creation of a scholarship to honor former teacher Paula Tranchita. Tranchita, who passed away in July 2012, taught for nearly four decades. 

"The Lincoln School faculty wishes to acknowledge Tranchita’s legacy with the Paula Tranchita Scholarship, to be presented each spring to a graduating senior who attended Lincoln School and possesses a strong aptitude in mathematics," reads the announcement.

Tranchita, a Winchester native who passed away in July 2012, taught for 37 years and spent much of that time educating third and fourth graders at Lincoln Elementary School.

"Paula Tranchita was passionate about teaching and instilled in each of her students an appreciation for learning," reads the announcement. "Many former students claim they went through a transformation in her class. Her enthusiasm for mathematics and technology encouraged children to explore 'sparks of discovery.'

"She was one of those rare teachers who 'click' with students and was a valued and respected mentor to her peers."

Following her retirement in 2010, Tranchita served on the board for the Winchester Foundation for Educational Excellence (WFEE), according to the announcement.

“Her empathy for students, parents and colleagues was remarkable,” said Caren Connolly, executive director of WFEE, in an online tribute after Tranchita’s death last July.

"Ms. Tranchita was a superior teacher, a master of her craft," reads the announcement. "She was an inspiration, a woman of deep conviction, and she possessed a unique perspective on life coupled with charm and wit."

To make a donation to the scholarship, checks can be made out to the Lincoln School. Also, make a note that the check is for the Paula Tranchita Scholarship and mail it to: Paula Tranchita Scholarship Committee, Lincoln Elementary School, 161 Mystic Valley Parkway, Winchester, MA 01890.