The Newtown School District’s 2023 Profiles in Professionalism honorees were recognized before the May 23 Board of Education meeting.

Superintendent of Schools Chris Melillo opened the event, and explained the award is given to teachers or other staff members who are “recognized by their colleagues as being excellent at what they do.”

Each individual honored was called up one by one and given an award by Deborra Zukowski, chair of the board. During the time of recognition for each honoree, Melillo detailed the history of their experience in the Newtown School District and read the comments of those who nominated them — two or three of their colleagues.

The first individual recognized was Claire DeSisto, a third grade teacher at Middle Gate School. In his comment, Principal Chris Geissler said DeSisto “consistently focuses on the whole child” while helping them meet learning goals. MGS music teacher Tina Jones said DeSisto “is a teacher every child will remember throughout their lifetime.”

Kristin English, an English teacher at Newtown High School, was nominated by Department Chair Abbi Marks and colleague Marc Kenney. Marks said English was “passionate about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion long before it was the latest trend in educational discussion,” and cited her 18 years’ experience advising the NHS Gender & Sexuality Alliance.

Kenney wrote English’s greatest attribute to be the empathy she brings to NHS.

Jessica Fonovic, math and science specialist at Reed Intermediate School was nominated by Dr Matt Correia, principal, who said she was highly skilled and effective as an educator, leader and mentor. Math intervention teacher Induk Song said Fonovic “consistently performs at an outstanding level,” adding she “has a delightful sense of humor and an unwavering belief that anyone can learn.”

NMS art teacher Leigh Anne Hildebrandt was nominated by Principal Jim Ross, who stated Hildebrandt is “a master teacher, providing students with an incredible experience and the freedom to have choices in their learning.” Terri Greenfield, NMS executive secretary, cited her work in creating the “What I Need” program and reinventing the art program recently adopted by the board.

Elizabeth Krupa, database administrator, was nominated jointly by two individuals at Hawley School: Principal Chris Moretti and Marianne Grimaldi, executive secretary. They stated she is a superstar, and “never more than a phone call away” to help and teach “with a smile and a laugh.”

Kathy June, executive secretary for the board, called Krupa a gem with “a can-do attitude” and a commendable work ethic, whose “dedication to the district is priceless.”

NHS Assistant Principal Dana Manning was nominated by Principal Kim Longobucco, who called Manning “the happiest person in Newtown High School.” She said students trust Manning and openly share concerns with her.

Natalie DeBrantes, executive secretary at the school, said Manning is courageous and kind, commanding respect from students, teachers, and parents.

In Principal Kathy Gombos’ and Lead Teacher Kelly MacLaren’s joint statement, office clerk Lisa Marlin “is one of the kindest people ever,” who makes the Sandy Hook School office “a special place.” Kathy Gillis said “Lisa lightens the front office with her wit and charm” and with her patience and kindness, creating a positive environment especially for children.

Julie Mauri, a library clerk at NMS was nominated by English teacher Amanda Kontra, who said Mauri was “instrumental in making the library media center a welcoming and exciting place.” Nadia Papalia, the English language arts coordinator at NMS, said Mauri “gives selflessly everyday” and “masters the intricacies of her position with grace and ease, and makes students and staff feel seen and heard.”

First grade teacher Kathy Leja nominated Lisa Pavia, a paraeducator at Hawley School, for her approachability and her “calm, quiet way of speaking to students.” Marjorie Howgego cited Pavia as being the best educator she has ever worked with during her 26 years of teaching, who sees the good in all students, “even on their most difficult days.”

Officer Fernando Pereira was nominated by six individuals for his performance as the resource officer at NMS. Assistant Principal Brian Walsh said Pereira “values relationships and connects so well with the students,” citing he made an effort to know their names and who they are, with a sense of humor that “drastically improves the culture of the building.”

Ingrid Russo wrote that Pereira’s “ability to identify and adjust student needs, concerns and behaviors in a smooth, effortless manner is unparalleled.”

Middle Gate School psychologist Heather Lucian nominated reading consultant Linda Silveira, and wrote that Silveira “carries out multiple responsibilities with the utmost diligence and professionalism.” In a joint statement, third grade teachers Claire DeSisto and Robin Cologna added Silveira “is a go-to person for anything and everything” as well as “a language arts guru.”

Finally, Melillo read the nominations for Jennifer Solomon, a special education paraeducator at Head O’ Meadow School, who was unable to attend the meeting. Principal Tim Napolitano described Solomon as working hard to meet student needs, adding she is “a leader at bus dismissal” who is “very dependable.”

Kristin Mattera wrote Solomon is “a gift” who is “extremely talented in giving students the tools they need to be prepared for today, tomorrow, and for all that is to come.”

With all the honorees assembled, a final round of applause initiated by Melillo quickly became a standing ovation in acknowledgement of their achievement as administrators, educators, and staff members. After a reception including food and congratulations amongst colleagues, the board meeting proceeded as usual.

Reporter Noelle Veillette can be reached at noelle@thebee.com.