A veteran East Hartford Public Schools educator is being recognized for her dedication and work with the community’s youth. Joann Cassello was honored with the East Hartford Department of Youth Services’ 2023 “Service To Youth Award” during a ceremony on August 9.
For the past 16 years, Cassello has served as a Youth Services Outreach Worker reaching out and offering support to children and teens. She has also spearheaded several Youth Services programs, including Boy’s Council, Girl’s Circle, and a support program for grandparents raising their grandchildren.
“Joann has a nice way about her. She’d see a group of kids huddling somewhere or sitting at a table and she’d kind of wander over and just work her way in,” explained Youth Outreach Coordinator Marc Bassos during the award ceremony.
Throughout her time working at Youth Services, Cassello has also served as a full-time special education paraprofessional at East Hartford High School (EHHS). She began her work at EHHS in 1990.
“Joann is always student-centered. She is engaged with students all day, every day. Even afterschool and throughout the summer, Joann works with kids extending their school year with many different activities,” said EHHS Principal Matt Ryan.
Youth Services Director Cephus Nolen presented Cassello with the award remarking, “There are a lot of people in this town that really give of themselves and you are a perfect example, whether it’s working for us, working in the school system, working in your neighborhood. You epitomize this award.”
Surrounded by her family and co-workers, Cassello received her award saying, “I wouldn’t have been able to do everything, connect with so many kids in town without everybody in this room.”
“I’m happy to be a part of it,” she said.