Derby Public Schools names 2023 District Paraeducator of the Year

Steven Horvath

DERBY - The Derby Public Schools has selected Steven Horvath as the 2023 District Paraeducator of the Year.

The Connecticut State Department of Education and the School Paraprofessional Advisory Council has 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 he feels about being selected Steve said, “Being named the 2023 District Paraeducator of the Year is one of the greatest achievements in my life. I could not be any luckier or happier. Each and every person I have the privilege of sharing my time with at Derby Middle School is remarkable. The children and the adults make me a better person every single day. When I first started, I never imagined myself in this position. Now, I couldn’t imagine my life without it. I am more thankful to the district of Derby and Derby Middle School than any words could ever hope to describe.”

Horvath has been a learning center Paraeducator at Derby Middle School since March of 2019. He is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. He went on to receive certification in Psychological and Physical Management Training and RBT Foundational Training. He is an active participant in Best Buddies, Unified Sports, and the Derby Running Club!

James Nichols, Supervisor of Special Education said, “Mr. Horvath is the kind of person that embodies commitment to and pride in working with students. I know that wherever and whenever he is needed, he will greet any assignment with a smile and a positive attitude. He’s undoubtedly here for the kids and gives 110% every day. Congratulations on being recognized as Derby Middle School and Derby Public Schools’ Paraeducator of the Year!”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Matthew Conway, said, “Mr. Horvath embodies everything you want in someone who supports our kids and teachers. He is compassionate. He shows care. He sets expectations and a supportive path to meet them. He gives others confidence in themselves to succeed inside and outside of the classroom. He goes above and beyond every day to ensure our kids understand how, practice and are motivated to take and get to the next step.”

Jim Gildea, Board of Education Chair, said, “The Derby School system is fortunate to have such an enthusiastic Paraeducator in Steve. He is a Big Personality and constantly goes above and beyond expectations to help everyone in any way! We are proud to have Steven represent the Derby Middle School and our District as the 2023 Paraeducator of the Year!”

Derby Public Schools would also like to recognize Building Level Paraeducators of the Year – Ron Swierbitowicz from Bradley School, Anna Hustek from Derby High School, Alfonsina Giammarco from Little Raiders University and Michelle Ferro from Irving School.

This is shared from a press release from Derby Public Schools.