East Hartford Paraprofessional Named Semifinalist for CT Paraeducator of the Year Award
East Hartford Public Schools (EHPS) is proud to announce that JoAnn Cassello, a paraprofessional at East Hartford High School, has been selected as one of the Top 15 semifinalists for the 2027 Anne Marie Murphy Paraeducator of the Year Award, recognizing outstanding paraeducators from across Connecticut. Cassello was selected from a remarkable statewide pool of applicants whose dedication to students and schools reflects the vital role paraeducators play in Connecticut’s public schools.
At the end of last school year, Cassello was selected as the Paraprofessional of the Year for EHPS. She has been a paraprofessional for 36 years, including 20 years in her current role where she works with students ages 18–22 in the East Hartford High School’s REALITIES Transition Program. She helps students develop the skills, confidence, independence, and workplace experiences they need as they prepare for life beyond high school.
Cassello works closely with the program’s classroom teacher to develop individualized learning and vocational experiences, identify appropriate community job sites, match students with placements based on their strengths and interests, monitor their progress, and adjust plans as students’ needs change.
“I feel that some of my greatest contributions and accomplishments are showing up every day, being patient, not ever giving up on a student, and being genuine and consistent,” Cassello said. “The students know they have someone they can count on and who will be there for them.”
East Hartford High School Principal Matt Ryan describes Cassello as the “definitive backbone” of the REALITIES 18–22 Transition Program and one of the school’s most reliable, valuable, and dedicated staff members.
“JoAnn seamlessly balances instructional support with a deeply caring heart,” Ryan said. “She creates a unique high-expectation and warm atmosphere, treating our 18–22-year-old students with the dignity of adulthood. This approach fosters an environment of maturity and mutual respect, turning our transition space into a true launchpad for the real world.”
In his letter supporting Cassello’s selection as Paraprofessional of the Year, he also highlighted her patience and commitment to student autonomy, noting that she understands when to step back and allow students to struggle safely, learn from challenges, and ultimately succeed independently.
Cassello said, “When bringing students out into the community to various jobsites, we are all representing East Hartford High School. I want their time in the community to be an experience where they’ll learn and grow. Each placement has its own set of challenges. It’s my job to find ways to overcome them and to help each student make a positive contribution. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.”
Jacqueline Forchetti, a Supervisor of Special Education at EHPS, said Cassello’s influence reaches far beyond her classroom.
“JoAnn Cassello is more than a paraeducator; she is a mentor, a community liaison, and a tireless advocate for student success,” Forchetti said.