DERBY — The Derby Public Schools has selected Bethany Seefeldt as the 2025 District Paraeducator of the Year.
The Connecticut State Department of Education and the School Paraprofessional Advisory Council established the “Anne Marie Murphy Paraeducator of the Year Program” to recognize the important role of the Paraeducator in supporting student achievement.
The award is named in honor of Anne Marie Murphy, a Paraeducator who was killed in the Sandy Hook shooting.
When asked how she feels about being nominated as the 2025 District Paraeducator of the Year, Bethany said, “I was so surprised! I am humbled and honored at this recognition. It’s so rewarding to be a part of the classroom and watching these children learn and grow.”
Bethany has been a loyal paraeducator for many years. She has worked at both Little Raiders and Bradley School and has created long-lasting relationships with students and colleagues.
She has been a member of the Bradley family for many years as a parent and active PTO member, prior to working at Little Raiders and eventually Bradley School.
She continued to volunteer her time on Bradley’s PTO even after her son moved to DMS and before she was a staff member at Bradley!! Her dedication is also evident in her community involvement, including Derby Little League.
Sherry Lia, Derby’s Paraeducator Union President, commented about Bethany that she should “be so very proud of the work you put in each and every day. YOU are the reason so many students feel loved and heard daily.”
Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Matthew Conway, said, “Bethany Seefeldt’s profound influence on our school community cannot be overstated. Her consistent dedication to the progress and well-being of our students fosters an atmosphere where every child feels appreciated and heard. Bethany’s uplifting demeanor bring warmth and positivity to our learning spaces. Her creative flair shines in her bulletin boards, which beautifully display students’ achievements and enhance our surroundings. Bethany exemplifies kindness, resilience, optimism and Grit. Her collaborative efforts in the classroom and her active engagement with the community, including Derby Little League, highlight her deep-seated commitment to our students, our families and this great city. We are proud to celebrate Bethany Seefeldt as Derby Public Schools Paraeducator of the Year.”
Jim Gildea, Board of Education Chair said, “Bethany is a great choice to serve as Paraeducator of the Year. She is a kind, caring and compassionate person who cares deeply about the welfare of all the students that are part of the Derby Public School system. Our school system and community is a much better place because of her presence and involvement. On behalf of the Board of Education, we congratulate her on this accomplishment.”
Colleen Ezzo, Labor Relations Representative stated “UPSEU is proud and honored to represent these dedicated Derby Paraeducators who make a difference daily in the life of their students! They are the true unsung heroes,providing unwavering academic, emotional, and behavioral support to those students most in need. Congratulations on being recognized by your colleagues as being the best of the best!”
We would also like to recognize our Building Level Paraeducators of the Year – Jessica Goings from Little Raiders University, Danielle Ardisi from Irving Elementary, Alijah Ellis from Derby Middle School and Rosann Lizza from Derby High School.
