Evans Teaches in Easton
A career as a paraeducator was a likely path for Keysha Evans, who as a young student needed a different way to retain information. She found that help in music.
Whether working as a paraeducator at Tashua Elementary School in Trumbull with first- and fifth-grade students or now at Samuel Staples Elementary School in Easton, Evans remembers her struggles as a student when she works one-on-one with a student in the classroom.
“I resonate with children struggling with problems with pen and paper,” said Evans. “Working at these schools, I can teach a way of learning that I needed as a little girl.”
Last month, Evans was named Connecticut Paraeducator of the Year, an award named after paraeducator Anne Marie Murphy, who was killed in the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Students at Tashua Elementary School fittingly celebrated Evans’ award with music and a song they wrote for her.
“I am so happy to represent a field that is so amazing and underappreciated,” said Evans. “I feel privileged, honored, and grateful to be in this space and to be able to represent a thousand of other paras.”
Samuel Staples Elementary School Principal Kimberly Fox Santora said she and the school staff applaud Evans’ commitment to support and enrich the educational experience of students.
“She is truly inspiring,” said Fox Santora. “This prestigious award recognizes Keysha’s outstanding dedication, hard work, and the positive impact she has on her students and colleagues. Her commitment is truly inspiring.”
Evans has worked for the Easton Park and Recreation Department’s Extended Day Program since 2007. She started as a high school staff member and worked her way up to her current position of director of extended day over the past few years, assisting students in kindergarten through fifth-grade with literacy.
In a joint statement, Danielle Alves, director, and Lisa Farasciano, recreational programmer, said Easton’s Park and Recreation Department could not be happier to have Evans as part of the park and recreation family.
“The kindness, compassion and love she has for all of her students is astonishing,” Alves and Farasciano stated. “Every year has brought new challenges that she faces head on; she never backs away. She is determined to help all those that require assistance. Teaching is her passion; she will tell you that the minute you meet her.”
