Derby Public Schools Names 2027 District Teacher Of The Year

DERBY, CT — Derby Public Schools announced this week Derby High School educator Kristin Silvestri has been named the 2027 District Teacher of the Year.

According to a news release provided by the district, the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program is "one of the oldest and most prestigious recognition programs to focus public attention on excellence in teaching."

Silvestri, an English Department coordinator and teacher of English II and AP literature and composition, is recognized for her exceptional leadership, creativity and dedication to student success, according to the district.

Since helping launch the AP literature program in 2023, Silvestri has inspired students to achieve outstanding academic success while fostering critical thinking, collaboration and student voice, according to the district.

Beyond the classroom, Silvestri established the DHS Writing Center to support student learning and helped bring theater back to Derby High School through co-directing student productions, district officials noted.

Known for her passion, innovation and unwavering commitment to students, Silvestri "consistently goes above and beyond to create meaningful opportunities that positively impact the entire Derby High School community," according to the district.

District officials also noted Silvestri's "leadership, dedication and lasting impact" make her truly deserving of this recognition.

"By every measurable standard, student achievement, leadership, innovation, school involvement and student impact, Kristin Silvestri exemplifies educational excellence," Principal Jennifer Olson said in a news release. "Derby High School is exceptionally fortunate to have an educator whose work continues to elevate students, colleagues, and the broader school community. For her extraordinary contributions and lasting impact, we are honored to celebrate Kristin Silvestri as the Derby School District 2027 Teacher of the Year."

Upon hearing of her selection as District Teacher of the Year, Silvestri said she felt really humbled knowing that she is surrounded by such inspiring and skilled educators throughout the district.

"Being a teacher and spending my days in the classroom is a privilege," Silvestri said in a news release, "and I feel really honored to be recognized for that work."

Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway said Silvestri's unwavering dedication to her students is truly inspiring.

"She goes above and beyond every day to support her students at Derby High School," Conway said in a news release. "Her commitment to fostering a nurturing and meaningful learning environment makes her an invaluable asset to our Derby family."

Kenneth Marcucio, chairman of the Board of Education and a former Derby High School teacher, noted it was always exciting to see the district's teachers honored for the amazing work they do and the lives they impact.

"On behalf of the Board of Education, I congratulate Mrs. Silvestri on being selected as Teacher of the Year. It is well deserved," Marcucio said in a news release. "I'd also like to congratulate all school-based Teacher of the Year awardees and the great work they do day in and day out."

The district also extended "an enormous heartfelt thank you" to its school-level Teachers of the Year: Meagan Torelli from Bradley School, Cathie Marrandino from Irving School and Angelo Ciambriello from Derby Middle School.