Eastern Connecticut State University alumni Jake Paciotti and Laina Rivers were recognized in May for their achievements as K-12 educators. Paciotti, a science teacher at Coventry High School, received the 2026 Ralph and Ruth Yulo New Teacher Award from the Connecticut Science Teachers Association, while Rivers was named Teacher of the Year for the 2025-26 school year at Clover Street School in Windsor.
These awards highlight the impact that dedicated teachers can have on their students and school communities. Both educators were honored for innovative teaching practices and commitment to creating supportive classroom environments.
Paciotti said his initial reaction to winning was disbelief. “My initial reaction to winning the award was disbelief,” he wrote, explaining that he hadn’t originally thought of himself as an exemplary teacher. Despite his doubts, Paciotti was chosen for his leadership inside and outside of class, using project-based learning techniques and emphasizing diversity through universal design and differentiation. “The rest of teaching is unattainable without first creating this sort of environment,” he noted. “If students don’t feel comfortable, properly supported, and heard while in your classroom, it becomes that much more difficult to keep them engaged, learning, and open to new ideas.” Outside class, he advises student council activities such as Earth Week initiatives.
Rivers said she felt both surprised and grateful when receiving her award. According to a statement from Clover Street School: “Through intentional instruction, meaningful student discourse, and innovative practices, Laina ensures that her students are actively engaged in their learning and challenged to think critically.” Rivers emphasized building strong relationships with her third-grade STEM students: “It starts with relationships and authenticity. I am fully myself with my students…I think they recognize and respond to that honesty,” she wrote.
Both alumni credited mentors from Eastern Connecticut State University who shaped their approaches as educators. Paciotti cited biology Professor Bryan Connolly among others; Rivers mentioned education Professor Tanya Moorehead as well as former Dean Jacob Easley II: “They both supported and encouraged me every step of the way,” she said.
Rivers participated in Eastern’s Holmes Master’s Program—an initiative aimed at preparing educational change agents from underrepresented backgrounds—and presented research on workforce diversification at a national conference. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree while continuing her work at Clover Street School.
