A group of educators and administrators made their way across the field of Blue & Gold stadium on Wednesday, May 25, to surprise Newtown High School physical education teacher Kathleen Davey with the news that she has been named the 2016-17 Newtown Public Schools' Teacher of the Year.

Ms Davey's family - husband Russ, son James, and daughter Kai-li - were also part of the group that surprised her with the news. Ms Davey was overseeing a class outside on Wednesday when the news was announced.

"There was a resounding endorsement for [Ms Davey] for all the work she does with you," said Superintendent of Schools Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, looking at Ms Davey's gathered students, "and [all] her students."

According to a press release from the school district, as a physical education teacher at NHS for the past 17 years, Ms Davey is "a master teacher and one who is held in high regard by students, her peers and the Newtown community."

Ms Davey has been a teacher leader during her time at NHS, and she has led two initiatives, the Fitness for Life Program and Unified Sports.

"These programs foster a mentorship between students with intellectual disabilities and their peers creating friendships on and off the field," the release reads.

This was the second year for the Newtown Public Schools' Teacher of the Year program. Middle Gate Elementary School teacher Tina Jones was named as the 2015-16 Teacher of the Year.

According to Sandy Hook School Elementary School Assistant Principal Tim Napolitano, who chaired the Teacher of the Year Committee, nominations were submitted from throughout the district. Ms Napolitano also said the committee of ten members represented each school in the district and a range of subject areas.

"[Ms Davey] represents the teaching faculty with distinction and I am pleased that she will represent Newtown on the state level within the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program," said Dr Erardi in the release.

After Ms Davey was congratulated by all in attendance - including her students, Dr Erardi, Mr Napolitano, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Jean Evans Davila, NHS Principal Lorrie Rodrigue, Athletic Director Gregg Simon, Physical Education and Health Department Chair Matt Childs and Ms Davey's family members - she accepted flowers and hugs from the gathered group.

"Thank you. Thank you everybody," Ms Davey said, before resuming her class.