001Now take a look around this room. It's self-evident. The best example is in your classrooms. When the founding fathers wrote that sentence, they were full of hope for the future of this country. And isn't that why we teachers got into this whole education business? Hope. Hope for the future. No matter what destructive influences kids bring into our classrooms, family dysfunction, substance abuse, poverty, violence, we don't turn them away. We take them all. And we endeavor to make their lives better. Every time they step into your classrooms, you are saying, "I believe in your future. I choose hope." That's why you're here tonight as teachers of the year. You're being honored for that experience you create for the students in your classroom every day, giving them that hope for the future. Upholding that foundational truth that
002each child holds infinite worth and each one deserves an equal chance to learn, to grow, to thrive, and yes, to pursue happiness. And that's why this evening is so singular and remarkable. out of something like 44,000 teachers in Connecticut. The people in your district have recognized you as exceptional educators as representatives of what is best in our profession. And education as a profession is at its core about doing whatever it takes to change lives for the better, about making this world a safer, more equitable, and just plain decent place. So, however you feel about this honor, whether you were born to be teacher of the year, whether you achieved teacher of the year or whether it was thrust upon you, [clears throat] you're here because the folks in your district think you're you're really powerful
003at changing the lives of your students and your community and the world. Bravo, my compatriots. Bravo. Tonight, we celebrate you and through you, the students whose lives will be changed because you chose to be a teacher. [laughter] Congratulations 2026 teachers of the year. [applause] [applause] I'm sure you're going to want a souvenir photo to commemorate this evening. So, at the end of the ceremony, we're going to ask all the teachers of the year to come up on stage for a group picture. I'll remind you at the end. Uh but our first guest this evening recently said rightfully so that the public education system in Connecticut is unmatched. He also said again rightfully so. The same is true of the pizza. At this time we are pleased to welcome the 89th governor of the state of
004Connecticut, the Honorable Ned Lamont. [applause] >> [applause] >> I'm not comparing you to pizza. Hey Blaze, you tell that story so well, which is what makes a teacher so amazing. The greatest sentence ever written. Remember, it was originally life, liberty, and the pursuit of property. And then they realized property is defined back in 1776 ran counter in many ways to life and liberty. and it was changed the pursuit of happiness. But Blae, it's folks like you and folks like each and every one of you that inspire these kids every day and make history come to life. Um, I'm here to introduce Charlene Russell Tucker, who will tell you why our school system is so amazing, why our absentee rate is going down, our scores are going up, and it's because of each and every one
005of you. But I'm going to I'm here just cuz I remember going back 60 years what a teacher meant to me. and uh the most important person outside of my family in those rare instances where we really had that special connection and and what it meant. And you know, you can talk a lot about curriculum and we back in my day, we had the new math and the new new math and modus pon and the union of the intersection and I don't remember any of that. uh algebra kind of brought that to life, describing that as a puzzle and it was a letter instead of a number and trying to put it together, but helping you visualize and um and tell that story. And then my history teacher like you, Bla1, you know, I was
006in fourth grade when President Kennedy was assassinated and in 8th grade when his brother Bobby Kennedy and Martin Luther King and the moment of silence and explaining to a young person just a little bit what was going on amidst all that chaos and helping us um believe that tomorrow would me a better day. And that's what I'd like to say to each and every one of you, the great teachers. I remember Brian and um when we went the teacher of the year to Adam Danbury and the description of Bella and how he had inspired her, but more importantly how she had inspired him and just as a reminder of what learning is and being able to project and um care and it's like FDR, you maybe remember this quote from FDR which is nobody knows
007nobody cares what you know until they know that you care. And those are the best teachers I had and that's why each and every one of you are here today. And it hasn't been easy. Uh it hasn't been easy. Uh you know we a lot of these kids these amazing kids the energy and the passion and optimism and um you know they went through co they went through that isolation and I remember um trying to do that remote learning that was pretty tough that teaching and trying to be animated on a screen and then we tried to get kids back that summer. We thought it was going to be a make up for learning loss and uh STEM. And then we realized that people just needed a shoulder to lean on and a little understanding,
008compassion, and that's what our teachers meant during those tough times and helping kids get get back on their feet. And you know, more recently, um a lot of kids don't feel safe in our schools. You know, it was 13 years ago it was Sandy Hook but today it's you know worried that um yeah day our president was elected that's year ago November I immediately said I want to make sure that all of our kids especially our you know Hispanic kids and trans kids know that they can come to school and they will be safe and this is a state that cares about you looks out for you and uh I think that's what our teachers remind our kids every day that we care about you, we look out for you. And I think it's particularly
009important being able to explain what to some seems to be sort of a chaotic, you know, time we're living in right now. you just see what's happened in the last week or so with um and and Rob Reiner and Brown University and that beach in Australia and each and every one of you are inspiring kids to feel better about tomorrow and helping to explain today a little bit and how we manage through this and we're putting a lot on your shoulders. Uh, you know, I wish it was just reading, writing, arithmetic, but um, you're a role model. You're an inspiration. You're a shoulder to lean on. You're helping to explain something that sometimes just seems very inexplicable. And you're reminding them why it was the greatest sentence ever written. And that's why they're the best
010teachers in the world. And that's why I'm really proud to be here and say thank you for everything you do and introduce you to our great commissioner of education. You there Charlene? Charlene Russell Tucker. Everybody [applause] [applause] Thank you, Governor. Every child deserves a champion. an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be. Let me repeat. Rita Pearson reminds us every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be. Good evening. It is my pleasure to be back at the Bushnell for what promises to be a wonderful evening. We're gathered here to celebrate excellence in
011teaching, shining a spotlight on you, our educators, our champions who represent the very best of Connecticut education. Across Connecticut, there are 508,42 students, each with their hopes and dreams. And there you are, sparking curiosity and empowering them to be the very best versions of themselves, unlocking their lifelong potential. Our students growth and success are a direct reflection of the energy and the commitment you bring to the classroom every single day. In fact, as a result of your hard work, last year, for the first time in about a decade, Connecticut saw improvements in state assessment test scores across every grade, across every subject, and across every learner group, every single one. And for that, I think that deserves a round of applause for [applause] >> [applause] >> In addition to the privilege of celebrating our district
012teachers of the year this evening, we're also honoring our 2026 Connecticut teacher of the year, Brian Bettish, along with our 2026 and Marie Murph educator of the year, Vanessa Taylor and Connecticut's Milkin Education Award winners for 2024 and 2025, Jessica Chapman and David Mason. I must share for these special announcements I witnessed something magical and beautiful. The hallways and auditoriums were filled with a buzzing palpable energy. An energy that grew into feverish excitement upon the announcement of each winner. Students were thrilled when they learned that an educator who had made a difference in their lives was recognized for their hard work. And this excitement and support that you have from your students highlight that in fact you are indeed champions. So when students discover books that they cannot put down, they're reading them from cover
013to cover, when they solve math equations they first thought impossible, or when they give presentations in front of the class with confidence, that spark exists because of you. This is the quiet magic of teaching and the power that you hold as champions. [clears throat] My hope is that this evening's celebration reminds you that your influence extends far beyond classrooms. Your influence lives in the student who cheered you on when your honor was announced. Your influence lives on with a student when a student returns years later to say, "You believed in me." It lives in the 722 middle and high school students across the state who are currently exploring a career in education, including teaching through our Ed Rising program. Your influence exists across communities and within our entire state. In the words of Henry Adams,
014a 19th century American historian, a journalist, academic, and a descendant of two presidents, he once said, "A teacher affects eternity." Let that sink in for a bit. The knowledge teachers impart to students every day makes them long long learners and achievers. Your work impacts the world. Yes, we know you have moments of challenge, moments where you're concerned about your work and even your students personally. However, this evening, as you walk across the stage, do so with pride in the fact that we are all celebrating you. And to those here who are supporting our champions, our superintendent, our family members, friends, and others and well-wishes, join me in thanking these amazing educators who are working tirelessly every day to make a difference because you believe in your students and they believe in you. I'd like to
015end by thanking those involved in making this evening's celebration of champions possible. Thank you Dave Baso and the entire teacher of the year council, the members of our state board of education who are here this evening, our entire talent office at the department of education and all the sponsors of this evening's program. I'd also like to express heartfelt appreciation to our union partners, our elected officials for their support, and of course, you've heard from the governor for his dedication to advancing education in Connecticut. Every child deserves a champion. To our champions, thank you for the work you do day in and day out and yes, into the nights as well in service of our students. Every child deserves a champion and I'm so pleased that they have you. Congratulations. Great to see you. [applause] Thank
016you, Governor and Commissioner. >> [clears throat] >> I would now like to introduce the 2012 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Executive Director of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, David Boso, along with 2017 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and President of the of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, Lauren Dann. [applause] Good evening. This evening is brought to you by the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council and the Connecticut State Department of Education. The goal of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council is to help select, recognize, and support Connecticut's teachers of the year. We could not do this work alone, and there are a number of organizations and individuals we would like to acknowledge. First, we would like to recognize and give our gratitude to our friends at the Connecticut State
017Department of Education, including Commissioner Russell Tucker, Deputy Commissioner Cynthia Suniano, Chief Talent Officer Dr. Shuana Tucker, Bureau Chief Dr. Jay Takopi, teacher of the year liaison Victoria Maui and Ashley Wright, and their entire team that work diligently behind the scenes to prepare for this evening. [applause] Our [applause] annual recognition ceremony and a number of professional opportunities that the council is able to offer to our honores are made possible by the support and generosity of all of our sponsors who are many and are listed in tonight's program. We remain sincerely grateful for their partnership as well as for their commitment to our state's students, educators, and school communities. of these contributors. We'd especially like to recognize our platinum sponsors. Please welcome the chairwoman of the Moheagen Tribal Council of Elders and a member of the Connecticut
018Teacher of the Year Council, Beth Reed. [applause] my work. So, I'm really happy that I could actually say that when I read it sort of in English and actually say it in my Moheaggan language now. So, that really makes me happy. What I said to you was hello and welcome to all our friends and family today. I'm called morning deer which is actually short for she who walks in the morning with the deer of the Moheaggan wolf people. I said thank you to all the people to our creator and for this wonderful evening. But I also want to say congratulations to all of you. I'm really proud of you as is the Moheaggan tribe. You may or may not know I was a lifelong uh or I should say careerlong not lifelong. Thank you educator.
019Okay. still here, right? And and I'm really really proud to be part of the education community. Our tribe really recognizes the extraordinary value of highquality education for our children and for the future children. Part of our commitment to educators in schools includes proudly sponsoring the Connecticut Teacher of the Year program. And we'd like to welcome all of you to this summer to an event where all of the district teachers of the year will be welcome and invited to our celebration and ceremony recognizing you in the middle of the summer when you really need it or when you well you probably need it all the time, but when you really need it, we're going to bring you down to Moheaggan and whine and dine you and celebrate you. And our semi- finalists will we'll have a
020three-day pro program for you as well where we'll have professional learning, site tours, cultural learning, historical learning, all of that to share with you for your classrooms as well. Our tribe promotes the importance of educating our students and communities, but also about learning about our indigenous histories right here in this place that we now call Connecticut. But as I summarize for you and as I finish, I want to share a message with all of the educators out there, but maybe everyone. Perhaps a message that might be really, really important right now considering the state of our communities. As we know, words matter. They can inspire us. They can uplift us. But they can also deflate and wound us. But every day you inspire and empower people. Every day it's in your hands. Those defining moments
021in your classrooms. Bla1, you mentioned hope. I really feel strongly about that. That hope is important. But it isn't just those defining moments, is it? It's those little times. How many of you have seen those videos? And I really love this. When you see a video where the elementary school teachers, they greet their kids and they have like, "Do you want a fist bump? Do you want a high five? Do you want to wave? Do you want a little dance?" Right? Do you want a hug? I really love those. Those little things matter. Now, I was a high school teacher, so that might not go over really well, but okay. However, however, just genuinely greeting your students at the door matters because I really wanted to look into their eyes as well. So, those things
022matter. Those words really are important. And I also think that you know it's important because all of you inspire every day. Once they're in your classroom, once they're created, you work your magic. But a skill that probably doesn't need a lot of magic might be one of the most important ones of all. Probably one that I taught I learned, I should say, from my teachers. And that probably saved my life. Some of you might relate to teachers saving your life. Really? And that was not a degree, not social intelligence, not an IQ, not status. It's not a thing. It's grit. It's determination. It's tenacity. Okay? It's what you might call that will. Well, how do you build it? That ability to stick out, stick it out day in and day out. How do you teach
023that mindset, that failure or setbacks? are just temporary, >> not permanent. That we have a willingness that we can have a willingness to start over, a willingness to allow our kids to really succeed, but maybe gently fail a little bit while picking ourselves up. While picking ourselves up. You're that support system that shows a mistake can be an opportunity. Think about those times when you're having your kids practice something. I remember saying, I'm really glad you, "Oh my god, I made that mistake." And I remember saying, "No, NO, I'M REALLY GLAD that happened. Let's look at that. Let's work at that. You inspire that." And I'm so h happy for that. Great teachers find a way to celebrate those mistakes and appreciate them. So, please continue doing that and putting your kids first. Thank you
024for your sacrifice. Thank you for your genuine love of your students. Thank you for your willingness to be humble and laugh and laugh about yourself in front of your students. Thank you for being transparent and real and sharing a laugh and strong. Thank you for that grit. Thank you for that determination. Thank you for that every day. And mostly, thank you for caring. And I can't wait to have you all down at Moheaggan and celebrate with you and learn with you. So I say to Shashuk, you are now family and I appreciate you greatly. Thank you and have a great week. [applause] >> [applause] >> Thank you, Beth. Another of our platinum sponsors is Voya Financial Advisors. Please welcome Gregory Miller, a regional vice president for the New England region of Laura Financial. [applause] Good
025evening. It's a privilege to join you once again at the Connecticut Teacher of the Year ceremony. Tonight we celebrate not just individual achievement but collective the collective impact of educators who shape the future of our state. Each year I'm reminded that teaching is not just a profession, it's a calling. Uh I've been married 35 years and my wife has been an educator for over 20 years. So this is something that resonates with me. The creativity, resilience, and compassion you bring to your classrooms are what make Connecticut schools truly exceptional, the best in the world. This year, I've witnessed firsthand how teachers have adapted, innovated, and supported students through new challenges. The ripple effect that you have goes far beyond the classroom, and you know that. You build communities, nurture future leaders, and help students discover
026their potential. The legacy legacy that you create is measured not only in the academic achievement but in the confidence, curiosity, and the kindness that you instill in all of your students. At Voya, we remain committed to supporting educators through programs that hopefully you're taking advantage of like the Voya unsung hero grants uh to continue to empower you all to bring creative ideas to life. We are proud to stand here with you recognizing that your dedication is the foundation of a brighter future for all. Congratulations again to this year's honores and to every teacher who makes a difference day after day. We recognize your unwavering commitment, your innovation and your heart. On behalf of Voya Financial, we thank you. [applause] >> [applause] >> We would also like to publicly acknowledge our other platinum sponsor, Dalia Education.
027Thank you. Please join us in one final round of applause and appreciation for all of our sponsors who make the Connecticut Teacher of the Year program. [applause] We also have the honor of recognizing past Connecticut teachers of the year who are in the audience this evening. As I read your name, will you please stand? The 2004 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, William Davenport. [applause] 2001 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Kristen Reer. [applause] The 2012 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, David Vasa. [applause] >> 2013 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Blae Messenger. [applause] >> 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, John Mashriani. [applause] >> 2017 Connect Teacher of the Year, Warren Dan. [applause] 2019 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Sheena Graham. [applause] >> 2020 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Megan Hatchberry. [applause] >> 2021 Connecticut Teacher of
028the Year, Michelle Brown. [applause] >> 2022 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Kim Kate. [applause] 2024 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Kiana Foster Morrow. [applause] >> And 2025 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, Julia Moro. [applause] We are privileged to recognize and celebrate the many district teachers of the year present this evening. Your selection as your district's teacher of the year is a well-deserved honor, and you have every reason to be proud. On behalf of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, congratulations. [applause] Thank you, Dave Lauren. Uh, traditionally during our recognition ceremony, our outgoing teacher of the year offers reflections on their experiences over the past year. Please welcome our 2025 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Internship and Workforce Development Adviser for New Haven Public Schools, Julia Miller. [applause] >> Okay. [laughter] It is such
029an honor being here tonight. I'd like to take a moment to thank the Connecticut State Department of Education, the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, all of our sponsors, and lastly, my 2025 Connecticut Teacher of the Year semi-finalist cohort for the support you all have shown me throughout this past year. And oh, what a year it has been. I'd also like to congratulate and welcome the 2026 District Teachers of the Year and the 2026 Semi- Finalist Connecticut Teacher of the Year cohort. You are all such deserving educators making a difference in myriad ways and I am so excited for your year to come. You know, I had when I was originally writing the speech, I had included this bit about being just a tiny bit jealous of your ceremony date being December 2nd. How it's
030a nice time of year. Everyone's feeling that magical winter spirit. Break is fast approaching. And then I joked about how it wasn't following any major national event that would profoundly impact our country and our students lives because well last year's ceremony was on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. And I think we all remember what happened on Tuesday, November 5th, 2024. But then first this year's date was postponed. And so I remove I rewrote the bed just a little bit, but it kept it mostly the same. But then this weekend happened when tragedy after tragedy seemed to occur. And so yet again, I knew I needed to rewrite part of my speech. The joke didn't work anymore. But the rest of the story, I'm going to leave for I hope it feels instructive and helpful in this
031moment that we find ourselves in. Last year, celebrating this special recognition at this beautiful Bushnell Theater the day after election day provided with me with, to put it mildly, some cognitive dissonance. That day, I went into school and taught a full day of classes. I held circled in all of them in order to carve out space for students to process. In New Haven, where I teach, there were many feelings I witnessed students facing. There was some anger, some resignation, there was a lot of fear. During lunch, I furiously tried to rewrite part of my speech for the night to come to try and grapple with to try and meet the moment in some way. If I'm being honest, though, I felt a certain level of dread. How was I supposed to celebrate? How was I
032supposed to uplift with this context in the background? When I arrived here, I was grateful for everyone's kindness. I put on a smile and had my picture snapped. I tried my best, but I still felt that lump, that dread, like I was pretending. And then the ceremony began, and Blaze Messenger, who yet again tonight is doing such a phenomenal job as our MC, said something that changed the whole night for me. He addressed the elephant in the room and told everyone assembled that he understood there were many complex emotions people were carrying that night. But he said there was nowhere on earth he would rather be at that very moment than in a room full of dedicated educators because as educators we would continue to do what we do best. Show up, care for, fight
033for our students. And I realized he was right. I was booied by the energy and community in that room. I felt like I had permission to celebrate because my gosh, are teachers worth celebrating? And importantly, I felt a renewed strength to use my voice in support of my students and community. And now, a year later, there's nowhere I'd rather be again. What a joy, what a profound honor to be in this room full of so many inspiring, full of heart, full of passion, full of action educators. When people ask me what has been the best part of my year of service, the answer is always this, the people. And that makes sense. Teaching is such a profoundly human endeavor. The basis of everything we do is relationships. And so I am so grateful for the
034relationships I have made this year and for the incredible teachers I have gotten to learn from. I can tell you there is such outstanding inspiring teaching and learning taking place in every pocket of our country and every town and city in our great state. When I was writing the speech, I was struggling to encapsulate all that I could learn this year, what parting words I wanted to impart. And then I rem was reminded of a truism that I think we all know so well. When in doubt, listen to your students. On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, we had our annual alumni return day at my school. I was able to see students who had graduated just last year and ones from a decade ago. They were each assigned to a different advisory to share their experiences
035with our current students. Not only was it beautiful hearing about their journeys and seeing their incredible growth, but it was also helpful for they gave great advice and I realized it in fact mirrors the advice I too would like to give. One alumni encouraged students to say yes, to really lean into different opportunities that present themselves. But he shared that it's okay and sometimes the right thing to do to say no. I have found both of these things to be true this year. I have said yes to so many opp experiences and opportunities that have come my way. I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone and grown from doing so. At the same time, I have had to learn how to be comfortable in knowing when it's okay to say no. And it's
036likely that you all s are sitting here today because you have said yes to opportunities. You have taken on leadership roles in your schools, extra projects in support of your students, but remembering that sometimes doing less things better, allowing yourself to find balance, something I'm granted still working on, is the way to go. Give yourself the push and confidence to say yes, and give yourself the permission to sometimes say no. Another former student advice was find your mentor. Next year will be my 20th year teaching. I know we have so many veteran and master teachers in this room, so many collective years of experience. But another thing I have been reminded of this year is how there is always so much to learn and new ways to grow. And as we do lean into those
037say yes opportunities and challenge ourselves, how important it is to have a guide to find those people who nurture us, who provide sounding boards for us, who share their wisdom and insight and lend a hand to hold along the journey. And lastly, my former students talked about finding your unique passion and voice. And I'll add in with my civics teacher lens in me, using that voice to make the change you want to see. It has been an honor this year getting to use my voice in support of the things I care about. Whether that was advocating alongside Congresswoman Rose Lauro in Washington DC to protect public education or speaking at a rally right here in the capital to fully fund our public schools or promoting grow your own programs like Educators Rising to encourage and
038create the next generation of Connecticut teachers. I will be forever grateful to have been given this platform and vow to continue advocating on behalf of our students and our profession. So, thank you to my students for their wisdom and for inspiring me every day. Thank you to my New Haven community for all the support you have shown me this year and throughout my life. Thank you to my Connecticut Teacher of the Year community who I can't believe I've only known for a year, for they now feel like deep rooted colleagues and friends. And thank you all to all of you. Most importantly, congratulations and may your year be filled with joy, purpose, and community. Thank you. [applause] Thank you, Julia. You can you can see why she was such a great representative and will continue
039to be a great representative for the teachers of Connecticut. Now, at this time, to help us recognize and celebrate each of our honores, please welcome back to the stage, Commissioner of Education Charlene Russell Tucker, who is joined by Aaron D. Venom, vice chairperson of the state board of education, and educators rising students from New Britain High School, Karine Shreha, Rafi Rodriguez, Davon Rush, and Tatiana Hopkins. >> [applause] >> Now it is time for me to see if my outside voice feels push up here. I'm going to give you some directions teachers. So it will be a test at the end. So what's going to happen is our fine representatives here from the Connecticut council are going to take you a row at a time over here to the magical Narnian door where I believe Carol
040is standing and they're going to take you through there with your escort. You will then a few minutes later magic after your name is called magically appear. You're going to walk over here to uh uh to to uh to the commissioner and the vice chairperson and receive your flap. Can I borrow a flap? Thanks. Oh, by the way, I highly recommend you leave on your desk for parent teacher conference. You will you will come over. You will shake hands or [clears throat] you will fist bump. You will get your plaque. You and your escort then will stand facing our fabulous photographer Jill who you may have met in the lobby. She will take a picture for posterity. And then you will come over here to go back downstairs. Let me put this back. >> Um
041Before you go though, don't take a second. You're here in the bush of theater. You're being recognized and honored for your achievements as a teacher. Take a minute to let this look around. Let it sink in. Forget that parent. Forget that copy. But please refrain from doing a sound of music twirl. Just take that moment. But then move it along. We got more teachers step. Then we come to the survivor challenge part of our show. We're going to go down the stairs. Um Cory will be down here at the bottom. He's here to assist you before break. >> You'll need to unlock your iPhone first. >> Uh and enjoy the rest of the evening. >> So we got that. So, let's start our evening, our celebration by honoring and recognizing the 2026 recipient of the
042Anmarie Murphy para educator of the year award. The many district parah educators of the year arises represent the passion, dedication and commitment of thousands of pareducators across the state. I know where I speak my wife is a PAR educator in Weathersfield. From Putham Public Schools and accompanied by Superintendent Steven Ruth, it is my pleasure to congratulate the 2026 an Marie Murphy PAR educator of the year, Vanessa Taylor. [applause] >> [applause] >> We would also like to honor and recognize the 2024 and 2025 Milin Educator Award recipients. The Milk and Educator Awards recognize excellence in education by honoring top educators around the country with a $25,000 unrestricted award. From Norwich Free Academy and escorted by director of student support services, Jessica Vocurup, please welcome the 2024 Connecticut Milk and Educator, Jessica Chapman. [applause] Next from Bacon
043Academy and escorted by Superintendent Daniel Sullivan, please welcome the 2025 Connecticut Milk and Educator, David Mason. [applause] We also have the opportunity to honor the Connecticut Teacher of the Year's 2025 scholarship recipients. Please welcome 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the Year semi-finalist and STEM CTE teacher at Connecticut River Academy Magnet School Middle Cory Nagel and 2021 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Kindergarten Teacher at Pquanic Elementary School in Windsor, Relle Brown. [applause] >> [applause] >> The Connecticut teacher of the year prospective teacher of color scholarship is awarded to a prospective teacher of color who is enrolled in a teacher preparation program at a college or university in Connecticut and is currently engaged in their student teaching experience. Our 2025 prospective teacher of color scholarship recipient is a 2025 graduate of Southern Connecticut State University. escorted by
044English professor Melissa Talhelm. Please welcome Alejandra Pa Honz. [applause] The Connecticut teacher of the year early career. Sorry. The Connecticut Teacher of the Year Early Career Teacher of Color Scholarship is awarded to an early career teacher of color who is within their first 5 years of teaching in a Connecticut public school. Our 2025 early career teacher of color scholarship recipient is a fifth grade teacher at Craig Academy of International Studies Elementary in South Windsor. Escorted by Principal Patrick Robbitai. Please join us in congratulating Miltnet Simone Hails. [applause] >> [applause] >> Congratulations to Alejandra and Milton. [applause] And now to the main event to introduce the 2026 District Teachers of the Year. Please welcome the 2020 Connecticut teacher of the year, an English teacher at Woodland Regional High School, Megan Hatch Giri, and the [clears throat]
0452011 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, member of the state board of education and physics teacher at Cornell High School in Stratford, Kristen Recctor. [applause] Thank you, Blae. We would like to thank the entire selection committee inclusive of all application readers for the time and effort that they spent thoroughly reviewing all applications. Those members of the selection committee are listed in our program. We would also like to thank all of the district teachers of the year for taking the time to complete and submit their portfolios. They were long. Each year, the members of the portfolio review committee are inspired by the passion and love for education that is apparent in each and every portfolio that we read. So, to the main event, we will be recognizing our district teachers of the year in alphabetical order by
046their district. So to kick things off from Ansonia public schools, teacher of the year, Kathleen Whitesler, escorted by Superintendent Joseph Debbacco [applause] from Ashford Public Schools. Alyssa Tetro as ordered by Superintendent Cynthia Ford. [applause] The teacher of the year for Berlin public schools is Michelle Wade, escorted by Superintendent Brian Begi. [applause] from Bethany Public Schools. The teacher of the year, Erica Morrow, escorted by Tom Reed Swale. [applause] The teacher of the year from Bethl Public Schools is Marie Jouy, escorted by Superintendent Christine CARVER [applause] from Bloomfield Public Schools. The teacher of the year, Richard Bishaw, escorted by Superintendent Tracy Youngsburg. [applause] From Bolton Public School District, please welcome teacher of the year, Lindseay Pelleter, escorted by Superintendent David Kerso. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Bosra public schools, Jillian Lesey, escorted by
047Superintendent Jack Zamary. [applause] from Brford Public Schools. Please welcome Brford's teacher of the year, Victoria Climate, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Ally Morren. [applause] from Bristol Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Sarah Lindstöm, escorted by Superintendent Iris White. [applause] [applause] The teacher of the year from the Brookfield Public School District is Patricia Janetti, escorted by state teacher of the year John Mastriani [applause] from Brooklyn Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Joselyn Webster, escorted by Superintendent Michelle Rener [applause] from Canton Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Carrie Campbell. escorted by Assistant Superintendent John Bishop [applause] from the Capitol Region Education Council. Please welcome Teacher of the Year, Taylor Canterbury, escorted by Superintendent Sasha Douglas. [applause] from Cheshure Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Denise Shalaba, escorted by
048Superintendent Jeffrey Sloan. [applause] from Clinton Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Katherine Baldwin, escorted by Superintendent Maryanne O'Donnell. [applause] The Colchester Public Schools teacher of the year is an DeFranco, escorted by Superintendent Daniel P. Sullivan III. [applause] The teacher of the year from the cooperative educational services is Marcelo Tamayo, but he is unable to join us this evening. [applause] Rounding out our C districts with Coventry districts teacher of the year, Christina Ziggler, escorted by Ross Sard from Captain Nathan School Principal. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Derby Public Schools, Hunter Sigona, escorted by Superintendent Matt CONWAY [applause] from East Graanby Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Shannon Preventure, escorted by Superintendent Suzanne Palmary. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from East Gravby Public Schools, Shannon Provener,
049escorted by, who is unable to be with us this evening. Congratulations, Jan. [applause] from East Hatam public schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Michael Orfa, escorted by Superintendent Teresa Drito. [applause] The teacher of the year from the East Hampton Public School District is Alicia Garced by Dr. Timothy Ventler. [applause] The teacher of the year from East Hartford Public Schools, Drew Dunick, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Elsie Torres. [applause] from East Haven Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year Lauren Kandasta escorted by interim superintendent Adam Swiny [applause] from East Windsor Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Alyssa Ivangh, escorted by assistant superintendent Daryl Ruard. [applause] Though unable to join us this evening, please congratulate the teacher of the year from Eastn Public Schools, Matthew Baka. >> [applause] >> from Enfield Public
050Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Amy Santanella, escorted by Superintendent Steven A. Moio. [applause] The teacher of the year from the farmington public school district is Aaron Knock associate uh escorted by principal Carrie HUBER [applause] from Grandby Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Sarah Warner, escorted by principal Pauline Greer. [applause] Though she's unable to be here this evening, please join me in congratulating the Griswell Public Schools teacher of the year, Nancy Kulage. [applause] from Bratton public schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Anna Maria Stripes, escorted by Superintendent Susan Austin [applause] from Hampton Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Kathleen Bower Phips, escorted by Superintendent Gary Heismith [applause] from Hartford Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Ashanti Hyman, escorted by assistant superintendent Dr.
051Jennifer Hoffman. [applause] [clears throat] The teacher of the year from Interdist School for Arts and Communications is Tiffany Dublin Perry. Assorted by State Teacher of the Year, John Mastriani. [applause] The teacher of the year from Jamoki Academy is Alejandro Alonso, escorted by human resources manager Anna Marciel. [applause] [cheering] from Lebanon public schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Lisa Gamash, escorted by Principal Jessica Scorso. [applause] Though unable to join us this evening, please join me in congratulating Manchester Public Schools teacher of the year, Andrea Flynn. [applause] From Milford Public Schools, welcome to the stage teacher of the year, Lauren Boington, escorted by Superintendent Anna Kataya. [applause] Though unable to be with us tonight, please congratulate Michael Ancest, the teacher of the year from Monroe Public Schools. [applause] The teacher of the year from Montville Public
052Schools is Carrie Flanigan, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Andrea Flynn. [applause] The teacher of the year from the Consolidated School District of New Britain is Machi Forol escorted by Superintendent Anthony Gasper. [applause] Though unable to join us this evening, please join me in congratulating Ann RTOR from New Fairfield Public Schools, their teacher of the year. [applause] Please welcome to the stage the New Haven Public Schools teacher of the year, Shirley Gonzalez, escorted by Superintendent Maline Negron. [applause and cheering] The teacher of the year from New London Public Schools is Palabi Vasuani escorted by Superintendent Cynthia Richie. [applause] Though unable to join us tonight, please join us in congratulating New Milford Public Schools Teacher of the Year, Stephanie Pillah. [applause] Welcome to the stage district teacher of the year from North Brford Public Schools, Shannon Slocom, escorted
053by Superintendent Scott Shoemaker. [applause] from Norwalk Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Matthew Farley, escorted by Principal Thomas Madard. [applause] Welcome to the stage the moment public schools teacher of the year Andrea Busby escorted by superintendent Susan Lassard. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Oxford Public Schools, Aaron Smith, escorted by principal Amy MISSETT [applause] from Planefield Public School District. Please welcome teacher of the year, Heather Peekarovic, escorted by assistant superintendent Natasha Hutchinson [applause] from Planeville Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Steven Mashad, escorted by assistant superintendent Dave Leanduski. >> [applause] >> The teacher of the year from Portland Public School District is Dylan Bernard, escorted by Principal Kate Lawson. [applause] from Hutton Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year Jessica Taverner Flag escorted by her
054principal K. Jen. [applause] The teacher of the year from Reading Public Schools is Jennifer Dario, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Alicia Dorpo. [applause] from Regional School District 5. Please welcome teacher of the year Jeremy Iverson escorted by superintendent Jennifer Buyers [applause] >> from Regional School District number eight. Please welcome teacher of the year Carl Janice escorted by Superintendent Colin McNamera. >> [applause] [clears throat] >> for our [clears throat] regional school district number nine. Please welcome teacher of the year, Randall Smith, escorted by assistant superintendent Mario Almeida. [applause] The teacher of the year from Regional School District number 10 is Megan Norton, escorted by Superintendent Fran Thompson. [applause] Please welcome to the stage the teacher of the year from Regional School District 13, Christopher Napoleano is supported by Superintendent Sydney. [applause and cheering] from Regional School District
055number 15. Please welcome teacher of the year, Jerry Anne Risto, escorted by Superintendent Josh Smith. [applause] From my beloved school district, Regional School District 16, please welcome the teacher of the year, Allison Sardo, escorted by Superintendent Michael Yammen. [applause] Though not able to join us this evening, please join me in congratulating Regional School District number 17's teacher of the year, Ma Bing. [applause] And from Regional School District number 19, please welcome teacher of the year, Rean Rowley. Reagan Rowley. Let me correct that. Escorted by principal Lou Dorettto. [applause] [cheering] GO. SO, we've reached [cheering and applause] the end of the bars with Ridgefield Public Schools teacher of the year, Jeffrey Love Lace, escorted by Principal Kathleen Bears. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Seymour Public Schools, Jessica Denigris, escorted by Superintendent Susan
056Compton. [applause] Please welcome the district teacher of the year from Shelton Public Schools, Nick Msina, escorted by Superintendent Kenneth Sarnaki. [applause and cheering] from Simsbury Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Jill Dvita, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Sue Lemi. [applause] The teacher of the year from Smers Public School District is Ken McCarthy, escorted by Superintendent Sam Galloway. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from South Windsor Public Schools, April Davis, escorted by Principal Joseph Loy [applause] from Stafford Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year Samantha West escorted by principal Anna CALVANZI [applause] from Stamford Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, George Riakos, escorted by Superintendent Tamu Lucero. [applause] Though not able to join us this evening, please join me in congratulating the teacher of the year from Stonington
057Public Schools, Ann Marie H. >> [applause] >> FROM Sfield Public Schools. Please welcome the teacher of the year, Heather Goldstein, escorted by Superintendent Matthew Dunar. [applause] Though unable to join us this evening, please join me in congratulating the Gilbert School Teacher of the Year, Jessica Nardine. [applause] From Thomas Public Schools, please welcome teacher of the year Tammy Dumis, escorted by Superintendent Francine CS. [applause] Unfortunately, they are not able to join us this evening. [applause] >> So, that means we are up to Torington Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Brooke Harris, escorted by Superintendent Michael Wilson. [cheering] [applause] from Trumbull Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Jennifer Zulowski, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Susan Iwaniki. [applause] And we're now ready for the use with Unified School District number one. Teacher of the year,
058Daphne Sapul, I must ride that again. Daphne Zapovveda, superintendent is escorting. Their name is Vernon Walters Bolo. [applause] There was only one U. So on to the bees from Vernon public schools. Please welcome teacher of the year Jennifer Roene escorted by superintendent Robert Tesa. [applause] [clears throat] Please welcome to the stage Waterberry Public School District teacher of the year, Nishi Rodriguez Valz, escorted by Superintendent Darren Schwarz [applause] from Watertown Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Richard Genua, escorted by Assistant Superintendent Jen Galla. [applause] The teacher of the year from West Hartford Public Schools is Christina Viduli, escorted by Superintendent Paul Vinis. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Weston Public Schools, Patty Powers. es escorted by Superintendent Erica Fort. [applause] Joining us from the Westport Public School District, please welcome teacher
059of the year, Daniel Courtright, escorted by science coordinator John Duca. >> [applause] >> from Weathersfield Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Kim Fitzner, escorted by the director of special services, John Carzar. [applause] from Winchester Public Schools. Welcome, please, District Teacher of the Year, Jennifer Frell, escorted by Superintendent Julie Lubie. [applause] from Windham Public Schools. Please welcome teacher of the year, Enoch Robbins, escorted by Superintendent Dr. Iris Scamro. [applause] from Windsor Public Schools. The teacher of the year is Eleanor Lloyd, escorted tonight by principal Dana Bier. [applause] Please welcome the teacher of the year from Walit Public Schools, Rihanna Danielle, escorted tonight by assistant superintendent Joseph Norcross. [applause] The teacher of the year from Woodbridge public schools is Lissa Croco escorted by Superintendent Christopher Montini. [applause] Please welcome to the stage the teacher of
060the year from the Woodstock Academy, Eric Colo, escorted by Dean of Academics, Michael Hartin. [applause] And finally, from Woodstock Public Schools, please welcome teacher of the year, Justin Margadona, escorted by Superintendent Christopher Roach. [applause] And now, let's please give one more round of applause to all of our district teachers [applause] of the year. >> [applause] >> All right, at this time to introduce the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year semi- finalists, I would like to introduce 2022 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Elementary Art Teacher at Mansfield Elementary School, Kim King. 2023 Connecticut Teacher of the Year finalist and teacher Anna Reynolds Elementary School in Newington, Jennifer Rodriguez. and 2021 Connecticut Teacher of the Year semi-finalist and world language teacher at Newington High School, Elsa Batista. [applause] >> Buenas, good evening. >> It is a
061pleasure to be here on such a special night. Each semi- finalist was interviewed by a panel of representatives from Connecticut's broads educational education community. Let us meet the 12 semi-finalists. Now, our first semi-finalist is a social studies teacher at Windham Technical High School and has been teaching for 18 years. She's accompanied by Superintendent Michael Praco. Please welcome the 2026 teacher of the year from Connecticut Technical Education and Career Systems, Angela Okasio. [applause] Our next semi finalist is an English teacher who has taught for 20 years. She is accompanied by Superintendent Enza Mack from Cromwell Middle School. Please welcome Cromwell's 2026 teacher of the year, Jane Sinowski. [applause] Our third semi-finalist is a music teacher at Greenwich High School with 18 years of teaching experience. She is accompanied by head of human resources, Jonathan Bud. Please
062welcome Bethany Pascalo as the 2026 Greenwich Teacher of the Year. [applause] OUR next semi-finalist is an elementary bilingual education teacher at Regional Multicultural Magnet School and has been teaching for four years. She's accompanied by executive director Katherine Ericson. Please welcome Learn's 2026 teacher of the year, Dea Kenyon. [cheering] [applause] Our next semifinalist has 34 years of experience and is a social studies teacher at Mansfield Middle School, accompanied by Superintendent Canel Morell. Candace Morell, please welcome Mansfield 2026 teacher of the year Julie Hodson. [applause] Our sixth semi-finalist is an elementary bilingual education teacher at Thomas Hooker School and has been teaching for 10 years. She is accompanied by director of multi multilingual education equity and instruction Torres. Please welcome Meridan's 2026 teacher of the year, Laura Barbaria. [applause] Our next semi-finalist is elementary teacher from Hop
063Brook Elementary School with 26 [clears throat] years of experience accompanied by interim superintendent Melissa Cooney. Please welcome Nagatuck's 2026 teacher of the year Kirsten Deo. [applause] [applause] Our eighth semi-finalist is an English teacher with 14 years of experience and is accompanied by assistant superintendent Beth Mal Mele from Terryville High School. Please welcome Plymouth's 2026 teacher of the year, Katherine Avocado. [applause] Our next semi-finalist is a math teacher from Rocky Hill High School. Oh, I'm sorry, Rocky Hill School and has taught for 2020 22 years, accompanied by principal John Fod. Please welcome the 2026 teacher of the year from Rocky Hill, Brian Grayson. [applause] Our 10th semi-finalist is elementary teacher at William Hatton Elementary School with 17 years of teaching experience. He's a she's accompanied by superintendent Steven Madani. Please welcome Kimberly Padros as 2026. [applause]
064Our next semi finalist is a music teacher from David Worcester Middle School with 30 years of teaching experience. She is accompanied by acting superintendent Heather Borges. Please welcome the 2026 teacher of the year from Stratford, September Barin. [applause] Our final semi-finalist is a social studies teacher at Taland Middle High School with 20 years of experience accompanied by Superintendent Walter Willen. Please welcome the 2026 teacher of the year from Taland, Kristen Blure. [applause] Congratulations [applause and cheering] to all our 2026 teachers of the year finals. [applause] I would now like to introduce the 2014 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Assistant Professor in Residence of Jazz Studies at the University of Connecticut, John Mastriani. 2019 Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Vice President of the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, Sheena Graham, and the 2024
065Connecticut Teacher of the Year and Elementary Teacher from Nathan Hale Arts Magnet School in New London, Kiana Foster Moral. [applause] Good evening everyone. At this time, it is our pleasure to introduce the three finalists for the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year. Our first finalist is a world language teacher at Glastonberry High School with 23 years of experience. One colleague said of him, "You walk away from a conversation with Joey, always with a more positive outlook or smile." Another colleague marveled that he makes every kid and teacher feel like they belong. Another colleague expressed, "He believes in me and he makes me proud to be a teacher." One parent said, "He makes the difference by sparking something in every student." Another parent remarked that Joey finds ways to make each student noticed and leaves a
066lasting impression on each of his students. One student shared, "If you're not having the greatest days, he is still able to make you smile." Another stated that he has this talent to make everyone feel heard and seen and understood. And finally, another student summed it up by saying, "His class is like a beam of energy." Accompanied by assistant superintendent Scott Herurwitz. Please welcome Glastonberry's 2026 teacher of the year, Joseph Meyer. [applause] [applause] Our second finalist hails from Elizabeth Green School in Newington where she is a third grade teacher with 26 years of experience. One colleague explained, "Her students have empathy and kindness for each other. It comes from her class. It's magical." Another said that students can be their true selves in her classroom. Another colleague conveyed, "She is a rare person. Meeting her, you'll
067never forget her." A parent added, "She is able to understand her kids and she is able to meet the students where they are." Another parent raved, "Her superpower is making connections. She challenges her students to be their best. A student was amazed how she was being funny and she was teaching at the same time. Another student remarked, "She pays so much attention to every individual in her classroom. No one was ever feeling like they weren't enough." And another student remarked, "Her willingness to help people is spreading to other teachers, and I want her to keep doing that so that we can make this world a better place." Accompanied by the superintendent, Dr. Maren Breman. Excuse me. Please welcome Newington's 2026 teacher of the year, Antoinette Serrano. [applause] >> [applause] >> Woo! >> [applause] >> Our
068third finalist this year is a Tesaw teacher at Pond Hill and Parker Farms elementary schools in Wallingford and has been teaching for 16 years. One colleague said, "He knows everyone and everyone knows him. He is so involved in everything. He finds ways to connect with everyone." A colleague added, "If someone needs something, he will be the first to help." Another colleague reported, "Ryan makes us all better teachers and educators because he makes us better humans." A parent shared, "He values each student and their heritage. He nurtures each of his students. Another parent said, "He has been a breath of fresh air, open-minded and supportive not only for my child but my entire family." A student noted, "He tried to help so that we will always be a good person and we can smile." Another said,
069"I remember he made a joke and it was actually funny." And another student summed it up. He finds ways to make everyone understand and push them to be better. accompanied by Superintendent Danielle Belizy. Please welcome Malford's 2026 teacher of the year, Ryan Keith. [applause] [applause] And now to introduce the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year, please welcome Danberry's Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Carara Casemiro. [applause] Good evening and everyone. My name is Dr. Cara Casemiro. I'm the superintendent of schools in Danbury, Connecticut. It is my absolute honor today to share such a special evening with you in honor of an outstanding educator. Someone who embodies the very best of what teaching can be. We are here to celebrate and proudly recognize Brian Bettish as the Connecticut 2026 teacher of the year. The highest honor our state
070bestows upon an educator. Brian, who is a sixth grade social studies teacher at Rogers Park Middle School in Danbury, was chosen by nearly a 100 school district teachers of the year through a rigorous selection process that included applications, interviews, and school visits. His work stood out for its impact, its innovation, and his deep commitment to his students, to his colleagues, and especially our Danberry community. On a personal note, this recognition is especially meaningful for me. Of my 29 years in Danberry, I have known Brian for his full 19. Brian has been a part of my leadership journey, and from the start, he was the teacher you always dreamed of having in your department. He was the go-to person willing to try something new, always leading with a positive attitude, and always putting students first. Long
071before the word influencer was a part of our everyday vocabulary, Brian was influencing others through his actions, his ideas, and his unwavering commitment to doing what is always best for kids. Brian's full uh Brian's story is a full circle of dedication. As a Danbury native and as a graduate of the Danbury public schools himself, he teaches in the very middle school that helped to shape him. After earning his degrees and returning home, he has been enriching the lives of young learners for 19 remarkable years. What makes Brian exceptional is not just his mastery of social studies. He's a phenomenal social studies teacher, but his belief that education is all about inspiration, connection, and mostly student empowerment. He creates learning experiences that lift student voices, spark curiosity, and connect classroom lessons to the real world. His
072students don't just learn history, they experience it through discussion and collaboration, and are truly engaged in meaningful discussions. Brian's impact extends far beyond the classroom. He has lost launched innovative driven programs like Park 21, a student club focused on improving school culture and strengthening the community. Seven, a project-based learning class where students design and implement real world projects. and Rogers that a studentrun podcast with more than a 100 episodes connecting learners with communities professionals and alumni all driven by the students in the school. He has also helped to develop creative spaces such as the ROAR recruiting recruiting st recording stereo uh studio, sorry about that, and the Beller Patterson Innovation Lab, giving students hands-on opportunity as they explore creativity, media production, and work with modern technology. Beyond his own initiatives, Brian has been a tremendous
073collaborator in our school system, serving as Rogers Park's donor choose ambassador and helping teachers in his school secure more than $500,000 in resources for their classrooms. Absolutely amazing. His leadership does not just raise achievement, but it builds confidence, cultivates curiosity, and fosters belonging. It is why education leaders, colleagues, students, and families from across our state have all agreed that Brian does not just teach, he inspires. Today, we celebrate Brian Bettish, not only as our 2026 state teacher of the year, but as a role model and an innovator and a champion for every student in Danbury. Brian, we are incredibly proud of you and we thank you for the impact that you've had on our students, our colleagues, and all of us who have been fortunate to learn alongside you. Please join me in giving Brian
074Bett a welldeserved round of applause. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> Heat. Heat. [applause] Uh good evening. Uh to prepare for tonight, I did two things. Uh first, last month, my wife and I came to the Bushnell to see Hamilton. Uh but also so I could see the space I'd be standing in. [clears throat] But we've literally sat in the absolute row last row. So I'm not sure how much it's actually helping me tonight. Uh and second, my 5-year-old daughter suggested that I practice my speech in front of people, which honestly felt like great advice. She even helped me organize it. So I did read my speech and practice in front of people. I read it in front of Tiana, Moana, Ariel, and a character. So I think I'm all set for tonight. Uh before I
075go any further, I want to thank the people who made tonight possible. Thank you to Governor Lamont, uh the commissioner of education, the CSD town office, Ashley Wright and Victoria Maui, David Boso, Lauren, the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council, uh the many sponsors including Dalio Education, Voya, and the Moheaggan Tribe. Also, thank you to the 2025 teacher of the year, Julia Miller, for the support you've shown me already, and congratulations on your amazing year. And one more huge congratulations again to every teacher being recognized tonight for this amazing accomplishment. Thank you. [applause] I'm fortunate to be celebrating with everyone tonight. My amazing family is here. My colleagues who made the trip from Danbury probably just to get out of PD a little early and my students who had a chance to perform on this
076very stage. I've also been very fortunate uh to have taught at the same school I went to middle school in for 19 years. But what I'm most fortunate for is to have been born on June 8th, 68. Because could you imagine if I, a middle school teacher, was born one day earlier on 67? I'd probably have to retire. But all jokes aside, I am truly honored to stand before you today as the 2026 Connecticut Teacher of the Year. And I promise you that I don't take any of this for granted. I stand here today because of teachers like all of you. Teachers who value not just the content but the experience of learning. Teachers who inspire me to love school and learning so much that I decided to make a career of it. And we
077get in this profession to inspire students. But along the way, there are moments when students inspire us. And five years ago, I had a student who did exactly that. a student who pushed me to create opportunities for students to shine, to make meaningful change in our community, and who gave new purpose to my teaching career. She was empathetic, charismatic, and natural leader. And her name was Bella Patterson, and together we worked sidebyside on projects that transformed spaces, built connections, and lifted our school culture. She co-created the work that helped bring me to this moment tonight. 2 days after being recognized as Danbridge's teacher of the year, I reached out to Bella to thank her, to tell her that this recognition wasn't mine, it was ours. But what I learned shortly after was that Bella's cancer
078had returned. And in just 3 weeks later, she passed away. But I don't share Bella's story tonight as a message of sadness. I share it as a message of hope because Bella is the symbol for what education should be. Education is about people. It's about connections. It's about community. She's a reminder of why the work that we do truly matters. Bella's story also reminds me that our time with students is not infinite. Each moment, interaction, conversation shapes the way they feel about learning, about school, and about themselves. As educators, we need to maximize these moments because in a world that is so chaotic and polarized, we are the constant for so many of our students, the thing that they can count on every single day. When I look at my students now, I see Bella
079and I'm reminded that I need to do more for them while they are here with me. And we all have Bella sitting in our classroom waiting for an opportunity to shine. And our job as educators is simply to create those opportunities. Bella was and is now my inspiration to do more to create meaningful change because every person who walks through the our school doors deserves a better experience. So as we sit here together tonight, let's not allow this recognition to be simply ceremonial. I want to challenge us all. Challenge us all to find one small way to create change and elevate our school communities. One small thing. This could be painting a bulletin board, redesigning your classroom, bringing in a guest speaker, just something, something that changes your community for the better. And invite your
080colleagues to do the same. Because imagine the impact we can have this year if everyone at our schools does one small thing to make it better. And I know I'm asking more of a profession that is constantly tasked with doing more. But I truly believe that this is the right kind of more. I've seen this firsthand. Creating change becomes addicting. And before long, these changes will no longer be small projects and initiatives. They will become culture. As teachers of the year, we have five months before we pass this title off to another amazing educator. But during these five months, you have the eyes and the ears of every person in your district. You should be incredibly proud of what you accomplished, but use it to make a real difference now in your community to create
081change that will be remembered. Some of that impact will be immediate, measured in smiles and engagement and joy. And some of it you may never see. As I sat in this very theater last month, there is one line that I took away from the show that I think perfectly captures our work as educators. A legacy is planting seeds in the garden you'll never get to see. We may never get to see how the change we make impacts our community and our students, but the impact does not occur at all if we don't plant those seeds. Each moment matters. So this year, let's create change together and make the most of the time with the students we have in front of us. And I will leave you tonight with this one final story. In September, I
082rolled out an initiative in our district to unite us in honoring Bella's legacy and to remind us all of the importance of our work. I distributed over 2,000 purple paper hearts and ask teachers to write something meaningful or inspirational on them and to display them in their classrooms. Almost immediately, people throughout the district sent me all these beautiful pictures, messages. And though I designed this initiative, when it came down to writing my own, I had no idea what to write. I spent weeks literally staring at a blank heart that meant so much to me. But I finally realized this message I needed to write didn't have to be perfect. It just had to be real. So I settled on three semi- grammatically incorrect words. I got you. Because for every student that sits in my
083classroom now and stares up at this heart on my board, I got you. For every colleague that needs support, I got you. And now this message extends to the students and the teachers of the state of Connecticut. To the best of my ability, I got you. I'm here to encourage, to partner, and support your communities in any way that I can. I'm also here to listen and to learn. Over the next 5 months, I plan to focus my work on creating meaningful change, building community, and celebrating the incredible educators across Connecticut. And by continuing to share Bella's story, my hope is that we inspire school communities and remind everyone to be their Bella selves. I am incredibly excited for the year ahead and I'm truly looking forward to working alongside all of you. Congratulations. Happy
084holidays and have a safe ride home. [applause] >> [applause] [applause] >> Thank you, Brian. I look forward to seeing all the seeds that you plant in the next year here in Connecticut as our representative. Um uh that's it. So at this time, well, you know what? One more time, let's every single 2026 here stand up. [applause] [applause] >> [applause] >> So, uh, while you're standing, let me remind you that before you leave, please come make your way down here to the stage. We want a big class picture, uh, for, you know, social media and your to tell your stuffed animals. Um, so, come on down for a group picture. Once again, congratulations. Thank you for your commitment to education. Have a safe trip home. Good night, everyone. Wait. Bye. Thank you. Heat. Heat.