Special education teacher Catherine DiGioia and kindergarten paraeducator Linda Randi have been named New Haven Public Schools Teacher of the Year and Paraeducator of the Year, respectively.
Catherine DiGioia, Teacher of the Year
Catherine DiGioia is a special education teacher in a self-contained classroom at Lincoln Bassett Community School, where she has spent her entire eight-year teaching career serving students ages 4–12 years old with diverse learning needs.
A graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, she holds dual bachelor's degrees in Special Education and Elementary Education, a master's degree in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, and a sixth-year degree in Assistive Technology.
Since joining Lincoln Bassett in 2018, Catherine has played an integral role in developing and expanding the school's special education program for self-contained classrooms, growing it from a single kindergarten classroom into a comprehensive elementary program that now serves students through middle school. In addition to teaching reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, she provides individualized instruction in communication, social skills, behavior support, motor development, and life skills.
Guided by the belief that every child deserves meaningful access to learning and the opportunity to reach their full potential, Catherine creates inclusive, student-centered environments that foster independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging. She has led a variety of professional development sessions within the district on topics such as individualized instruction, assistive technology, and sensory supports. Catherine is passionate about advocating for students with significant disabilities and empowering both educators and families to help every learner succeed.
Linda Randi, Paraeducator of the Year
Linda Randi has proudly served New Haven Public Schools since 1985, dedicating 41 years to helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. As a kindergarten paraeducator at Nathan Hale School, she is known for creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and capable of success. For the past 10 years, she has also served as the paraeducator union steward, advocating for and supporting her colleagues. In recognition of her unwavering commitment to education, Linda was honored with the 2026 TAPS Award as a paraeducator.
Linda’s journey began after the sudden loss of her husband, when she volunteered at her children’s school and later joined the “Write to Read” program. What started as a way to stay connected to her children became a lifelong calling. Inspired by her husband’s dedication to education, she has spent decades building meaningful relationships with students and helping them achieve success.
DiGioia and Randi were selected from among recipients of this spring’s TAPS awards by a panel that included administrators, union representatives, and previous honorees.