CONNECTICUTTEACHER OF THE YEAR 2019

December 5, 2018

The Bushnell166 Capitol Avenue

Hartford

Awards Ceremony

“Educators have the opportunity and responsibility to shape young lives on a daily basis. By providing learning opportunities which are appropriately

challenging, yet also attainable, we have the power to help students create positive self-images and see themselves as successful.”

— Erin Berthold2018 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Cook Hill SchoolWallingford Public Schools

2019 CONNECTICUT TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS CEREMONY

Sean Maloney, Brooklyn Public SchoolsJessica Papp, Canton Public SchoolsBarbara Johnson, Colchester Public SchoolsEllen Meyer, Danbury Public SchoolsRobert Rose, Glastonbury Public SchoolsGregory Amter, Hamden Public Schools

John Cote, Lebanon Public SchoolsKelly Shea, Manchester Public SchoolsPenny Zhitomi, Shelton Public SchoolsCamille Spaulding, Stamford Public SchoolsLeanne Maguire, Torrington Public Schools

Master of Ceremonies Blaise Messinger, 2013 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Pledge of Allegiance Warren Harding High School Choir National Anthem Under the direction of Sheena Graham, 2019 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Welcome David Bosso, President, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council Dianna R. Wentzell, Commissioner of Education Makayla R. Dawkins, State Board of Education Student Member

Remarks from Beth Regan, Council of Elders, Mohegan Tribal NationPlatinum Sponsors

Reflections Erin Berthold, 2018 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Wallingford Public Schools

Presentation of 2019 Leslie Torres-Rodriguez, Superintendent, Hartford Public Schools Paraeducators of the Year Marisol Rodriguez, 2019 Paraeducator of the Year

Presentation of 2017 Thomas Moore, Superintendent, West Hartford Public Schools Milken Educator Award Anna Capobianco, 2017 Milken Educator Award

Student Performance Warren Harding High School Choir Under the direction of Sheena Graham, 2019 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

District Teachers of the Year William Davenport, 2004 Connecticut Teacher of the Year John Mastroianni, 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Presentation of Awards Dianna R. Wentzell, Commissioner of Education Allan B. Taylor, Chair, Connecticut State Board of Education

Semifinalist Recognition Lauren Danner, 2017 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Cay Freeman, 2011 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Finalist

Finalist Recognition Cara Quinn, 2015 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Kristen Record, 2011 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Mary Kay Rendock, 2006 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Ryley Zawodniak, Mansfield Public Schools Jennifer Freese, Newington Public Schools Jessica Harris, Wallingford Public Schools

Presentation of 2019 Aresta Johnson, Superintendent, Bridgeport Public Schools Connecticut Teacher of the Year

2019 Connecticut Teacher Sheena Graham, Warren Harding High School, Bridgeport Public Schools of the Year Acceptance

Floral arrangements provided by: Floriculture Students, Ellis Clark Regional

Agriscience and Technology ProgramWoodbury FFA Chapter, Nonnewaug High School

Photography: Jill Davenport, Litchfield Hills PhotographyPhotography sponsored by VOYA Financial

Sheena Graham is proud to say that she is currently in her 36th year of teaching! She has worked with stu-

dents across grade levels throughout her career and continues to be energized by her students and colleagues.

At the elementary level, Sheena has worked with children in both Ansonia and Bridgeport. She taught general mu-sic, chorus, keyboard classes, boys’ choir, parent/teacher/student choir, and gospel choir. She wrote, produced, and directed original musicals based on school themes and creat-ed teaching tools to help other teachers reach their students. In the 80’s, Sheena was writing raps in Latin, based on the vocabulary words students needed to learn each week! Her after-school commitments in-cluded coaching a drill team, leading a dance troupe, being assistant softball coach, coaching cheerleading, running a poetry club, and teaching free piano and drama classes at The Hall Academy of Music and Fine Arts housed at Hall Neighborhood House in Bridge-port.

At Harding High School and Central High School in Bridgeport, Sheena’s classes included teaching choir, a black history chorale, peer leadership, theatre, pi-ano, and performing arts. Under her leadership, the Harding Cheerleaders brought home the Fairfield County “Spirit Stick” two years in a row, the Peer Leaders produced a CD to raise money for the home-less, and the Harding and Central School Choirs won a total of nine ‘Overall’ trophies, 31 first-place trophies, 3 second-place team trophies, 24 individual trophies, and after missing out on being Grand Champions by .04 points one year, the choir brought that title home the following year.

In her teacher leadership role Sheena has presented workshops such as: Music Lessons That Work, Parts 1 & 2, Incorporating Other Subjects Into Music Lessons, The Parent Teacher Connection, African American His-tory in Your Classroom, Why We Sing, (the purpose of music in ministry), and Do You Read Me? She has vol-unteered as an accompanist for choirs in Bridgeport, Ansonia, and Danbury, where she directed Western Connecticut State University’s Gospel Choir for four years. In addition to her school choirs she is currently the director of a children’s choir, Sisters of Praise, and a senior choir at the First Baptist Church of Stratford,

under the leadership of Dr. William B. Sut-ton III, her pastor.

Sheena’s recording and writing experienc-es are extensive and wide-reaching. Some of her more recent songs include We’ve Not Forgotten You, for those affected by the L’Ambiance Plaza collapse; Reaching Isn’t Always Easy and My Destiny, both performed at the White House for Mrs. Obama, Dr. Biden, and the Governors’ wives in February 2014; A Witness, for the Witness Breast Cancer Project; Some-

body Might Be You, for child abuse victims; A Flame That Never Dies, written in response to the Newtown tragedy and other senseless deaths that occur all too often; It’s Not How You Start, performed by Tisdale students for Mrs. Obama at the 2016 White House Talent Show; and We Can If We Believe, performed at the Kennedy Center in March of 2018. Her current projects include, Maybe’s Won’t Save Me for bully/teen suicide prevention, and It’s Time For Change, a call to action for America in response to the senseless shootings involving police and of police. Her future projects include fully implementing V.O.I.C.E. Change, a course she is developing to encourage students to find what they are passionate about and use an artistic medium of their choice to encourage change by pub-lishing original poetry, journals, greeting cards, and children’s stories under her trademark, “‘JesusAids,’ for the wounds within.”

Sheena has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career as an educator. She was fea-tured in the book Notable Valley African Americans. She received the Beard Excellence in Teaching Award, the National Association of Negro Business and Pro-fessional Women’s-Teacher of the Year Award, the NAACP-Teacher of the Year Award, and the Choral Di-rector of Distinction Award to name a few. However, Sheena says, “to be recognized as still being relevant and selected as Bridgeport’s Teacher of the Year and Connecticut’s Teacher of the Year after thirty-five years in education, is the highest honor above all!” Shee-na’s advice to others is, “Do not let your image be designed by your inactivity.”

Sheena received her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Western Connecticut State University, and her master’s degree from St. Joseph University and Southern Connecticut State University.

Sheena GrahamBridgeport Public Schools

2019 CONNECTICUT TEACHER OF THE YEAR

I am pleased to join the State Board of Education in welcoming teachers, family members, friends, students, and other supporters of great teachers to the 2019 Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony.

Tonight we celebrate the many great educators who work to help Connecticut’s children learn, grow, and prepare for their bright futures. Those who have been named Teacher of the Year in your districts, and our state Teacher of the Year, represent Connecticut’s best of the best, and it is our privilege to honor every one of you.

Teaching is a calling. It is challenging work to meet the individual needs of students every day. I cannot emphasize enough the impact

that your efforts — and your success — have on the future of our state.

I want to congratulate Sheena Graham, Connecticut’s 2019 Teacher of the Year. Her profession-alism, commitment to excellence, and dedication to her students is inspiring and unparalleled.

On behalf of all the residents of Connecticut who value providing all our students a high-quality education, I congratulate you and thank you for all that you do for our students, schools, and our communities.

Best wishes for a wonderful celebration tonight and for many more years of success in your classrooms.

Sincerely,

Dannel P. MalloyGovernor

A MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR DANNEL P. MALLOY

A MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER OF EDUCATION DIANNA R. WENTZELL

On behalf of the Connecticut State Board of Education, I would like to welcome you to the 2019 Connecticut Teacher of the Year awards ceremony. This is an evening to celebrate the many accomplish-ments of our students, knowing that the guiding hand of a compas-sionate expert, a teacher, was responsible for nurturing their growth and development as learners.

Tonight, all of the honorees are being recognized for their outstand-ing practice and exemplary service to their school communities. We are so proud of our teachers for being on the front lines every day making dreams possible for our students. Their commitment to our

children offers Connecticut and our nation the gift of a bright future. Teachers are called upon to stir intellect and ignite passion in their students. They come to the classroom as learners them-selves, ready to share knowledge, engage in thoughtful dialogue and inspire new ideas. Each of the educators here this evening represents the very best in the teaching profession, and I am proud to be with all of you to share in the significance of this occasion.

Please accept my deepest gratitude for making a difference in the lives of our young students. In a world filled with multiple challenges, it is clear that the commitment and dedication of teach-ers is paramount to preparing our students for a future where they will have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions. Although sometimes a daunting task, the reward is a genera-tion of young people ready to step into their adult lives with the innovative energy necessary to move our state and our nation forward.

We are here to celebrate great teaching by recognizing educators who have inspired a love of learning in their students and who have distinguished themselves in the teaching profession. Those who are present tonight join me in thanking you for a job well done. Please accept our best wishes for continued success!

Sincerely,

Dr. Dianna R. WentzellCommissioner of Education

Welcome to our annual Connecticut Teacher of the Year recognition ceremony. On behalf of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, I am honored to join you for this evening of celebration, reflection, and gratitude. Congratulations to all of our district teachers of the year, and thank you to all of your colleagues, family, and friends who support you and understand your dedication to this profession and to your students. Your selection as district teacher of the year is a distinguished privilege and accomplishment, and we are proud to recognize and celebrate our teachers for all that you do to enrich the lives of thousands of students and the communities in which you work.

The mission of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council centers on honoring and engaging teachers as leaders of our profession. We are com-

prised of former Connecticut Teachers of the Year, educational stakeholders, and representatives from our sponsor organizations. The Commissioner and the State Department of Education charge the Council with many of the responsibilities involved in coordinating the Connecticut Teacher of the Year program. As Council members, we volunteer our time because we believe that teacher recognition and support are essential in our profession. We believe that teacher recognition empowers teachers, improves schools, and ultimately, contributes to our students’ success and growth.

The Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council is committed to engaging Teachers of the Year as teacher leaders, as lifelong learners, and as advocates for their colleagues, students, and communities. Due to the generous contributions of many of our sponsors, we are fortunate to offer several professional growth and teacher leadership opportunities to all of our district teachers of the year.

The Mark Twain House and Museum provides an exclusive professional development opportunity to each district teacher of the year being recognized this evening. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn about how to integrate these unique state resources into your lessons, no matter what subject or grade level you teach. As you can see on the back cover of your program, a series of workshops will be offered in March 2019.

In addition, each district teacher of the year is invited to our sixth Empowered to Lead Symposium scheduled for May 2nd, 2019 at the Mohegan Sun Convention Center. Your costs are covered by the Con-necticut Teacher of the Year Council, and we hope that you bring along your colleagues, administrators, and others within your professional networks. After a memorable day of learning and professional growth at the Symposium, and due to their tremendous generosity, we will once again celebrate our district teach-ers of the year at a reception hosted by the Mohegan Tribe.

These opportunities are the types of teacher recognition and engagement that the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council strives to promote. By creating meaningful roles and opportunities for Teachers of the Year, we seek to embolden Connecticut’s top teachers as collaborators, involved in their profession as innovators and change agents for their students and colleagues. We hope that your selection as your district’s teacher of the year further empowers you, your colleagues, and, most importantly, your students.

Sincerely,

David Bosso, Ed.D.President, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council2012 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

A MESSAGE FROM CONNECTICUT TEACHER OF THE YEAR COUNCIL PRESIDENT DAVID BOSSO

CONNECTICUT TEACHER OF THE YEAR SELECTION PROCESS

Through a locally designed process, each participating district selects an exemplary teacher as their Teacher of the

Year. Each district Teacher of the Year is eligible to submit an application to the State Department of Education

for consideration as Connecticut Teacher of the Year. The teachers’ application packets include biographical and

professional information, essays on topics ranging from personal teaching philosophy to issues facing public

education, and letters of endorsement. Each application is reviewed by at least eight members of a statewide

selection committee representing the state’s major educational organizations, former state teachers of the year, and

community stakeholders. The review of applications identifies 12–15 semifinalists who are invited to make a formal

presentation on a pre-assigned topic, and to respond to questions as part of an interview process. Finally, four

finalists are visited at their schools, where selection committee members observe the teachers’ classes, interview

colleagues, administrators, and students, as well as support staff, parents, and local board of education members.

At the conclusion of the site visits, the selection committee meets and selects the Connecticut Teacher of the Year.

CONNECTICUT TEACHER OF THE YEAR HONOR ROLL

201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007

20062005200420032002200120001999199819971996

Erin BertholdLauren DannerJahana Hayes**Cara Quinn John F. Mastroianni Blaise Messinger Dr. David Bosso Kristen Record Kristi Laverty Anthony J. Mullen** Joan Hurley Christopher Poulos

Mary Kay Rendock Dr. Burt Saxon William P. Davenport Wendy Nelson Kauffman Dr. Marian Galbraith* Karen Rezendes Elizabeth Ann Collinge Joseph Bacewicz Marianne Cavanaugh Susan Pelchat Fie K. Budzinsky*

WallingfordNorth BranfordWaterburyEast Hartford West Hartford Cromwell Berlin Stratford West Hartford Greenwich CREC Region 9 (Easton, Redding) Bloomfield New Haven Woodbury Bloomfield Groton Danbury North Haven Tolland Glastonbury Torrington Portland

1995199419931992

1991199019891988198719861985

1984198319821981198019691968196419631953

Patti AvalloneJudy Gross Art Skerker Robert Coleman

Linda Matthews Chaz Zezulka Carol R. Virostek Frank Gawle Bert J. Neumaier Deborah Gladding Willard Thomas J. Sullivan

Roger A. Morrissette Dr. LeRoy Hay** Sandra Johnson Shirley J. Gillis* Henry F. Jemioto Sheila Mary Schmidt Rose Brennan Harold Frazier* Helen Estes* Dorothy Hamilton**

West HavenBridgeport Hartford Region 15 (Middlebury, Southbury) West Haven Mystic/Groton Berlin Enfield South Windsor Glastonbury Region 4 (Chester, Deep River, Essex)West Hartford Manchester Bloomfield New London Derby Windsor Torrington West Hartford Manchester Milford

* Indicates National Teacher of the Year Finalist ** Indicates National Teacher of the Year

2019 Connecticut District Teachers of the Year

DISTRICT TEACHER SUPERINTENDENT

Ansonia Public Schools Joseph Merenda Carol MerloneArea Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) Amy M. Perrone Thomas M. DanehyAshford Public Schools Dory Moore James LongoBerlin Public Schools Katie Elizabeth Wasilewski Brian BenigniBethany Public Schools Kimberly L. Wolcott Colleen MurrayBloomfield Public Schools Amanda Powell James Thompson Jr.Bolton Public Schools Heather Noelle Warner Kristin B. HecktBozrah Public Schools Elizabeth Banning Brown John J. WelchBridgeport Public Schools*** Sheena Graham Aresta JohnsonBristol Public Schools Michael Joseph Reynolds Susan Kalt MoreauBrookfield Public Schools Michael Kevin Smith John Barile, Sr.Brooklyn Public Schools* Sean Maloney Patricia L. Buell Canton Public Schools* Jessica Nazera Papp Kevin CaseCapitol Region Education Council (CREC) Love Ann Peace Timothy SullivanCheshire Public Schools Kristin Ann Castellano Jeffery SolanClinton Public Schools Raymond Smith Maryann O'DonnellColchester Public Schools* Barbara A. Johnson Jeffrey BurtColumbia Public Schools Lorraine Joan McLeish Maria GerykCooperative Educational Services (C.E.S.) Sabine Januski Charles DumaisCromwell Public Schools Karen M. Ambler John MaloneyCT Technical Education and Career System Jamie Emmett Lamitie Jeffrey WihbeyDanbury Public Schools* Ellen Meyer Salvatore PascarellaDerby Public Schools Maureen Zahara Matthew ConwayEast Granby Public Schools Laureen Dabrowski-Swets Patricia CharlesEast Haddam Public Schools Glenn Michael Anderson Brian ReasEast Hampton Public Schools Stacy Gibson Paul SmithEast Hartford Public Schools Mary Bieler Nathan QuesnelEast Haven Public Schools Alphonse Joseph Camera Erica FortiEast Windsor Public Schools Tamara Hoang Christine DeBarge Easton Public Schools Eric Andrew Dolecki Thomas McMorranEnfield Public Schools Anthony Michael Allegro Christopher DrezekFarmington Public Schools Kimberly Millar Kathleen GreiderGlastonbury Public Schools* Robert Christopher Rose Alan BookmanGranby Public Schools James Janski Alan AddleyGreenwich Public Schools Michele Giorlando-DeRosa Ralph MayoGriswold Public Schools Janet Keffer Sean McKennaGroton Public Schools Megan Leigh Kasparek Michael GranerHamden Public Schools* Gregory John Amter Jody Ian GoelerHartford Public Schools Benjamin Michael Carlson Leslie Torres-RodriguezKillingly Public Schools Misty Crowley Steven RiouxLearn Erika Piver Eileen HowleyLebanon Public Schools* John W. Cote Robert AngeliMadison Public Schools Susan Quinn Thomas ScariceManchester Public Schools* Kelly Lynn Shea Matthew GearyMansfield Public Schools** Ryley Khristine Zawodniak Kelly LymanMeriden Public Schools Emily Ramsey Mark BenigniMilford Public Schools Bethany Llodra Gilman Anna CutaiaMonroe Public Schools Jill Suzanne Silvestro Jack Zamary Montville Public Schools Nicole Galla Stelik Laurie PallinNaugatuck Public Schools Robert Hughes Sharon LockeNew Britain Public Schools Shelly Bjorklund Nancy SarraNew Fairfield Public Schools Robin Welton Patricia CosentinoNew Haven Public Schools Lauren Sepulveda Carol D. BirksNew London Public Schools Arlene Marie Morrison Cynthia E. RitchieNew Milford Public Schools David Syzdek Stephen TracyNewington Public Schools** Jennifer J. Freese Pamela MuracaNewtown Public Schools Bonnie Hart Lorrie RodrigueNorth Branford Public Schools Paula Ann Huebner Scott Schoonmaker

2019 Connecticut District Teachers of the Year

DISTRICT TEACHER SUPERINTENDENT

Norwalk Public Schools Rosemary Holomakoff Steven AdamowskiNorwich Free Academy Arikka Kalwara David KleinNorwich Public Schools Katie Elizabeth Ruffo Abby I. DolliverOxford Public Schools Corey Evans Ana V. OrtizPlainfield Public Schools Jacqueline Myra Ibbitson Kenneth DiPietroPlainville Public Schools Melissa Dodenhoff Maureen BrummettPlymouth Public Schools Kevin Schumann Martin SemmelPutnam Public Schools Erin Williams William HullRedding Public Schools Meredith Alvarez Thomas McMorranRegional School District 5 Robert Daniel Kennedy James ConnellyRegional School District 6 Robin Laine Christopher Christopher LeoneRegional School District 9 Daniel Rivers Thomas McMorranRegional School District 10 Barbara Helen Denza Alan BeitmanRegional School District 12 Lisa C. Holmes Megan BennettRegional School District 13 Timothy Lee Fisher Kathryn VeronesiRegional School District 15 Francis SanAngelo Joshua SmithRegional School District 16 Michele LoRusso Michael YaminRegional School District 17 Julie Wessinger Howard ThieryRegional School District 18 Susan Lynn Whritner Ian NeviaserRegional School District 19 Betsy Bishop Terrell Jill KriegerRidgefield Public Schools Jennifer Leigh DeJulio JeanAnn PaddyfoteRocky Hill School District Stephanie Malkin Mark ZitoScotland Public Schools Linda Jewell Stefon Francis A. BaranSeymour Public Schools Angelique Michelle McAuliffe Michael WilsonShelton School District* Penny Karen Zhitomi Christopher ClouetSherman Public Schools Belinda Corteza Badger Jeffrey MelendezSimsbury Public Schools Kurtis Paul Dougan Matthew CurtisSomers Public Schools Stephanie Lynn Toney Brian CzaplaSouth Windsor Public Schools Jamie Lynn Lang Kate CarterSouthington Public Schools Kari Peschel-Luise Timothy ConnellanStafford Public Schools Jacqueline Marie Sidor Steven A. MoccioStamford Public Schools* Camille Sewell Spaulding Earl KimStonington Public Schools Kathleen Andre St. Rock Van RileyStratford Public Schools Jenifer Mangiafico Janet RobinsonSuffield Public Schools Matthew Edward Dobi Mark WinzlerThe Gilbert School Adam Preston Atkins Anthony SerioThomaston Public Schools Laura Loree Johnston Francine CossTolland Public Schools Christopher Keithan Walter WillettTorrington Public Schools* Leanne Russell Maguire Susan LubomskiTrumbull Public Schools Robert Thomas Devine Gary CialfiUnified School District 1 Jennifer Corti Maria Pirro-SimmonsVernon Public Schools Joanne Stavens-Martin Joseph MacaryWallingford Public Schools** Jessica L. Harris Salvatore MenzoWatertown Public Schools Elizabeth Anne Hosking Rydell HarrisonWest Hartford Public Schools Sonya Ann Stemmer Thomas MooreWestbrook Public Schools Seana C. Nygard Patricia CicconeWeston Public Schools Penny McNulty William McKersieWestport Public Schools Enia Noonan Colleen PalmerWethersfield Public Schools Jennifer Marie Lizee-Hammer Michael EmmettWinchester Public Schools Kathryn Martin Melony M. Brady-ShanleyWindham Public Schools Stephanie Sawyer Patricia GarciaWindsor Public Schools Jennifer Jane Delskey Craig CookeWolcott Public Schools Brittany Mary Garguilo Anthony GasperWoodbridge Public Schools Elizabeth Ann Heagney Robert GilbertWoodstock Academy Sara Elizabeth Dziedzic Christopher SandfordWoodstock Public Schools Lisa Audet Viktor Toth

*semifinalist **finalist ***CT Teacher of the Year

PLATINUM SPONSORS

The Connecticut State Department of Education and the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council wish to thank our sponsors, whose contributions make the

Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program possible.

The Mohegan Tribe, a sovereign, federally recognized Indian Nation, is committed to developing an understanding of Native American culture and history by providing quality professional development for educators.

As an industry leader in retirement plans that has been providing 403(b) plan services to Connecticut schools for over 40 years, Voya is committed to helping individuals save for retirement during their working years and creating an

income strategy throughout retirement. Voya is very proud to have been a provider in the first 403(b) plan for a public school system, and we remain a provider in that plan today.

SILVER SPONSORS

The Museum of America and the Sea is an experiential education facility where students experience hands-on history and science in a vibrant setting. The 19 acre museum along the Mystic River waterfront includes a recreated 19th century coastal village, historic vessels, and small boats, exhibit galleries, a renowned planetarium, and one of

the world’s largest collections of maritime artifacts.

The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence uses the power of emotions to create a more effective and compassionate society. The center conducts research and teaches people of all ages how to develop their emotional intelligence.

The mission of The Mark Twain House & Museum is to foster an appreciation of the legacy of Mark Twain as one of our nation’s defining cultural figures, and to demonstrate the continuing relevance of his work, life, and times.

The Joyce D. and Andrew J. Mandell Academy for Teachers is the Connecticut Science Center’s high-impact professional development program for educators. Mandell Academy for Teachers is committed to supplying educators with professional development experiences that support rigorous science and curriculum standards. Mandell Academy for Teachers programs

transform classroom instruction, resulting in engaging learning experiences that lead to achievement for all students.

NNSTOY is a professional organization of State Teachers of the Year. Focused on assuring that every student has access to excellent teachers, we are committed to bringing the voice of teachers into policy making and to advocating for the profession.

PARTNERS

The Connecticut Association of Boards of Education assists local and regional boards of education in providing high-quality public education for all Connecticut children through effective leadership.

The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents leads the continuous improvement of public education by advocating public policy for children, and by developing and supporting executive school leaders.

The Connecticut Association of Schools is an informed leader in Connecticut’s education system, providing services to Connecticut’s K–12 schools in areas ranging from academics to athletics.

Since 1848, the Connecticut Education Association has been a strong and effective champion for teachers and public schools, advocating for high standards for teaching and learning.

Barbara Dalio, as the leader of the Dalio Foundation’s work to strengthen public education, engages with teachers to build meaningful relationships and design solutions to achieve greater equity. The Foundation supports hundreds of teachers across Connecticut, benefiting thousands of public school students.

Fund for Teachers strengthens instruction by investing in outstanding teachers’ self-determined professional growth and development in order to support student success, enrich their own practice, and strengthen their schools and communities.

Every student deserves to be taught by an accomplished teacher. National Board Certification was designed to develop, retain and recognize accomplished teachers and to generate ongoing improvement in schools nationwide. It is the most respected professional certification available in K–12 education. Created by teachers, for teachers, the National Board Standards represent a consensus among educators about what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do. Board certification is available in 25 certificate areas spanning 16 disciplines from Pre-K through 12th grade.

The Quinnipiac University School of Education is committed to developing innovative leaders who will shape the future of education. The school has received national accreditation from CAEP and NCATE, and offers a variety of high quality programs both on-campus and online. On-campus programs include a Graduate MAT in Elementary or Secondary education and a Sixth-Year Diploma in Educational Leadership. In addition, online graduate programs are available in Teacher Leadership, Instructional Design, and Special Education.

Smart Technologies Corporation is a Canadian company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 1987, Smart Technologies is best known as the developer of the Smart Board interactive whiteboard. Smart products are sold through dealers across North America and through distributors in countries around the world.

FRIENDS

Connecticut Educators Computer Association is a nonprofit organization of professionals who promote the effective use of technology throughout schools in Connecticut. CECA is an Affiliate Member of ISTE, the International Society for Technology in Education.

Mount Holyoke College Professional and Graduate Education — Mount Holyoke College has been on the forefront of providing a rigorous education to passionate changemakers who have gone on to break new ground in education, the sciences, the arts, and social justice movements for the past 181 years. Our graduate programs offer professional development opportunities for both emerging and seasoned leaders.

Alpha Delta Kappa

AXA Advisors

Connecticut’s Kid Governor

Lincoln Center Education

Neag School of Education at UConn

University of Saint Joseph

ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORTERS INDIVIDUAL/FAMILY SUPPORTERS

David and Jennifer Bosso, in memory of students we have lost

Richard C. Brown

Catherine Freeman

Dr. Lee Hay

Cal Heminway

Carol Mikulski

Corey Nagle

Bert J. Neumaier

Susan Pelchat

Christopher Poulos, in memory of Alphonse D’Angelo

Kristen Record

Beth Regan, in honor of all teachers

Mary Kay Rendock

Maureen Ruby

Mark Winzler

SUPPORT THE COUNCIL/HONOR A TEACHERThe Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program is made possible by contributions made to the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions made to the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council are tax deductible. To support the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, or to make a donation in honor of a teacher, please visit www.cttoycouncil.org.

State of Connecticut

The Honorable Dannel P. Malloy, Governor The Honorable Nancy Wyman, Lieutenant Governor

State Board of Education

Allan B. Taylor, ChairpersonEstela López, Vice ChairpersonErin D. BenhamErik M. ClemonsWilliam P. DavenportMakayla R. Dawkins, Student MemberDonald F. Harris, Jr.Terry H. JonesTarini Krishna, Student MemberMaria I. MojicaMark E. Ojakian, ex officioMalia K. SieveRobert J. Trefry, ex officioJoseph J. Vrabely, Jr.Stephen P. WrightDianna R. Wentzell, Secretary

State Department of Education

Dianna R. Wentzell, CommissionerEllen Cohn, Deputy CommissionerLaura Stefon, Chief of Staff

Teacher of the Year Program

Sarah Barzee, Chief Talent Officer Kim Wachtelhausen, State Program Coordinator, Talent Office

Special thanks to the Talent Office support staff:Jayne Brooks, Janet Montague, Mirta Ortega, LaShawn Smith, Nancy Velez-Cruz, and Margaret Wilson

Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council

President: David Bosso, 2012 Connecticut Teacher of the YearVice President: Mary Kay Rendock, 2006 Connecticut Teacher of the YearTreasurer: Marian Galbraith, 2002 Connecticut Teacher of the YearSecretary: Susan Pelchat, 1997 Connecticut Teacher of the YearImmediate Past President: Christopher Poulos, 2007 Connecticut Teacher of the YearRichard C. Brown, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilLauren Danner, 2017 Connecticut Teacher of the YearCatherine Freeman, Finalist, 2011 Connecticut Teacher of the YearDavid Low, Semifinalist, 2013 Connecticut Teacher of the YearJohn Mastroianni, 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the YearBlaise Messinger, 2013 Connecticut Teacher of the YearCarol Mikulski, Retired EducatorCorey Nagle, Semifinalist, 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the YearCara Quinn, 2015 Connecticut Teacher of the YearKristen Record, 2011 Connecticut Teacher of the YearBeth Regan, Council of Elders, Mohegan TribeMaureen Ruby, Semifinalist, 2000 Connecticut Teacher of the YearChristopher Todd, Finalist, 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the YearSusan Walker, Retired EducatorChaz Zezulka, 1990 Connecticut Teacher of the Year

Honorary Members:Marianne Cavanaugh, 1998 Connecticut Teacher of the YearBill Davenport, 2008 Connecticut Teacher of the YearCal Heminway, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilMark Winzler, Retired Educator

Teacher of the Year Selection Committee*

Cay Freeman, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, Selection Committee ChairpersonTeresa Boyd-Cowles, Connecticut State Department of EducationTricia Conduah, Connecticut Education AssociationLauren Danner, 2017 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Mathew Hough, AFT ConnecticutPat Jordan, Connecticut Education AssociationKathleen Huber, Connecticut Parent Teachers Association Kimberly Kostelis, American Association of Colleges for Teacher EducationCarrie McGowan, American Federation of Teachers-CTCarol Mikulski, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilRobert Mitchell, Connecticut Association of Boards of EducationTom Nicholas, Connecticut Education AssociationAnne Pember, ACES, Regional Education Service Center AllianceBeth Regan, Council of Elders, Mohegan Tribe Mary Kay Rendock, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council Beth A. Smith, Connecticut Association of Schools Dani Thibodeau, Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents

*All members of the selection committee were also application readers.

Teacher of the Year Application Readers

Teresa Alexandru, Connecticut State Department of Education/TEACHStephen Armstrong, Connecticut State Department of EducationKimberly Audet, Connecticut State Department of EducationJoe Bacewicz, 1999 Connecticut Teacher of the Year David Bosso, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilRichard Brown, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilMarianne Cavanaugh, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilWilliam Davenport, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilSharon Fuller, Connecticut State Department of EducationMarian Galbraith, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilCal Heminway, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilDavid Low, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilJohn Mastroianni, 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the YearBlaise Messinger, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilCorey Nagle, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilYemi Onibokun, Connecticut State Department of EducationSusan Pelchat, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilChristopher Poulos, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilClaudine Primack, Connecticut State Department of EducationCara Quinn, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilKristen Record, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilMaureen Ruby, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilChristopher Todd, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilKimberly Traverso, Connecticut State Department of EducationSusan Walker, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council Gady Weiner, Connecticut State Department of EducationMark Winzler, Connecticut Teacher of the Year CouncilIris White, Connecticut State Department of EducationChaz Zezulka, Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council

FEATURING:

MarcBrackett

FoundingDirectoroftheYaleCenterforEmotionalIntelligence

MandyManning2018National

TeacheroftheYear

SheenaGraham2019ConnecticutTeacheroftheYear

PROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENTUsingMuseumResourcesforthe

IntegratedCurriculum

ForElementaryTeachers:March13

ForMiddleSchoolandHighSchoolTeachers:March20

ForSemifinalistsandFinalists:March27

“I am still in a state of child-like wonder at the

awesome experience."

“The day exceeded my expectations!”

“Powerful, thought-provoking, engaging, and exciting.”