Irving School educator is Derby’s Teacher of the Year

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich

Register Correspondent

DERBY >> Whether he’s staying after school helping a student struggling in math, or landing grant money to launch a robotics program, Irving School fourth-grade teacher Frank Briganti has earned his new title as Derby’s Teacher of the Year for 2016.

“Mr. Briganti is an outstanding educator,” said Principal Jennifer Olson. “His lessons always include a real-life application of a math skill, the integration of technology and small group work. Students in his class made significant gains in their ability to solve complex problems.”

Briganti was chosen for the top honor from among a group of teachers from each of the district’s four schools who were nominated by their peers for their excellence in teaching and contributions to students, staff and families, according to Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway.

“Mr. Briganti engages every student, every day, identifying lessons and activities to meet each student’s needs,” Conway said. “Mr. Briganti is a valued asset to the Derby School district.”

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Emmett O’Brien Technical High School in Ansonia names its ‘Teacher of the Year’

By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich
Register Correspondent

ANSONIA >> Combining her love of history and passion to help students succeed has landed Allison Kinard the distinct honor of being named Emmett O’Brien Technical High School’s Teacher of the Year.

Kinard was selected for the honor by her fellow teachers.

“When first heard that I was selected by my peers as the Teacher of the Year, I was filled with shock and surprise,” Kinard said. “It was an extremely touching honor just to have been nominated, and so winning the award was really an accomplishment because I work with some really great teachers.”

Kinard began teaching history at Emmett in 2009, after she graduated from Central Connecticut State University. She currently is working toward her master’s degree in teaching and learning from Post University.

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