North Attleboro High School Alumni Association

Lois Grimaldi
Excellence in Education Award
2026

Lois Grimaldi devoted her life to education, community, and the countless students whose lives she shaped with her warmth, wit, and unwavering dedication, making an extraordinary impact over the course of her three and half decades in the North Attleboro Public Schools.

Born on May 15, 1951, in Boston, Massachusetts, Lois was the daughter of Elmo and Frances Ferri. As a child, she developed an early love of reading, which ignited a lifelong passion for learning. After beginning her studies at the University of Rhode Island, she transferred to Rhode Island College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in education.

Lois began teaching in North Attleboro in 1974 at Richards Avenue School. She later moved to Falls School, where she taught fourth through sixth grades, and ultimately to North Attleboro Middle School, where she taught sixth-grade reading on Team Nova. Over a remarkable 35-year career, she became a beloved and well-known figure in the school community. Affectionately known by students as "Mama Carey" or "Mama Grimaldi", and "Lola" by her colleagues, she had high expectations for her students, but also created classrooms that were filled with laughter, and deep care.

Lois always followed the rules, but marched to the beat of her own drum with sass and class. Known for her daily "lunch" of Cheez-its and an iced coffee, her meticulous hair, heels, and wardrobe, Lois rarely dressed down, many referring to her as the "best dressed" teacher in North history.

A gifted educator, Lois had a unique ability to connect with every student and colleague she encountered. She possessed a rare talent for simplifying difficult lessons and offering guidance without judgment. Her classroom was a place of joy and belonging — where learning was celebrated, creativity flourished, and even the smallest accomplishments were recognized. Whether handing out her famous "Good Doobie" treats, organizing end-of-year lip synch battles, kazoo parades, or offering a listening ear, she made every student feel seen and valued.

Her passion and commitment did not go unnoticed. In 2009, the same year she retired, Lois received the North Attleboro–Plainville Rotary Club's Distinguished Service Award for Outstanding Educator, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the profession and the community.

Beyond the classroom, Lois, enjoyed a multitude of activities, including music, singing and dancing, gardening, eating culinary delights, playing her favorite slot machine, drinking the occasional extra-dirty Bombay Sapphire martini, and spending time with her family. She had an insatiable love for life and a spirited sense of humor; her infectious laugh will be forever missed.

Though she passed away in 2014, her legacy continues to live on through her husband John, her daughter Lauren, her three granddaughters, Francesca, Talia, and Portia, and the generations of students she taught and inspired. We honor Lois Grimaldi not only for her years of service, but for the joy, compassion, and excellence she brought to teaching.