Paraeducator of the Year

Greenwich Public Schools announced today that North Street School’s Chris Bortot has been named the district’s Paraeducator of the Year and will now move forward to represent GPS for the Connecticut State Department of Education 2026 Anne Marie Murphy Paraeducator of the Year Award. Mr. Bortot was chosen from 15 paraeducator candidates, each representing one of the 15 schools in the district.

“Chris Bortot, much like the dozens of paraeducators at Greenwich Public Schools, is an essential and integral member of the North Street School community,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Toni Jones said. “Our appreciation for paraeducators cannot be simply expressed in any award or public acknowledgement. They are the true unsung heroes of public education.”

In honor of Anne Marie Murphy, a paraeducator who lost her life at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012, the Paraeducator of the Year Award acknowledges the service and commitment of all Connecticut paraeducators, and honors one paraeducator, who has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in the performance of their job. The honoree has thereby earned the respect and admiration of other paraeducators, students, teachers, administrators, co-workers, and parents

“Mr. Bortot’s adaptability allows him to seamlessly support students across all grade levels, from kindergarten through fifth grade,” North Street School Principal Jill Flood said. “He diligently enforces accommodations, follows behavior plans with fidelity, and has a remarkable ability to motivate students to put forth their best effort. Through the trusting relationships he builds, students not only become more engaged but also more willing to challenge themselves academically and behaviorally.”

The Connecticut State Department of Education defines a paraeducator as an employee who assists teachers and/or other certified professionals or therapists in the delivery of instructional and related services to students. The paraeducator works under the direct supervision of the teacher and/or other certified or licensed professionals. The ultimate responsibility for the design, implementation, and evaluation of instructional programs, including assessment of student progress, is a collaborative effort between certified and licensed staff.

“During my 17+ years as a paraeducator, one of my greatest accomplishments has been developing a strong ability to work effectively with a wide variety of students,” Mr. Bortot said. “I have witnessed firsthand the powerful and lasting impact I have been able to make in their lives, something I hold with deep gratitude and pride.”

During the months of July and August, all applications will be scored and the CSDE will invite the semifinalists for interviews. During August and September, the 2026 Anne Marie Murphy Paraeducator of the Year is identified by the state selection committee. On December 2, the winner will be honored during the 2025 Connecticut Teacher of the Year ceremony at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Hartford.