MONROE, Conn. — Monroe Public Schools is proud to announce that Shirley Dotoratos, a dedicated paraeducator at Monroe Elementary School, has been selected as the 2026-27 Paraeducator of the Year. This honor recognizes Dotoratos’ extraordinary commitment to student success, her innovative approach to special education, and her unwavering positivity within the school community.
Nominated by a number of colleagues and parents, Miss D., as she is affectionately known by her students, is celebrated for her work with Monroe Elementary’s most complex learners. Colleagues describe her as a “quiet hero” who combines deep empathy with high-level professional skills, including data collection and curriculum modification.
“Shirley is an exceptional paraeducator whose patience, kindness and dedication make a profound impact on both students and staff,” said Megan Emerson, a special education teacher at Monroe Elementary. “She works with our most challenging students with unwavering patience and compassion, never once complaining. What truly sets Shirley apart is how deeply she cares about her students. She regularly goes the extra mile — purchasing fidgets and games with her own money to support her students’ needs and engagement.”
In addition to her daily role as a paraeducator, Dotoratos has given selflessly of her time to engage students in Arts and Imagination, Pizza Bingo and the Sweetheart Dance. You can also find Dotoratos promoting inclusion by assisting with Unified Sports.
Wendy Orr, a parent at Monroe Elementary, said, “Mrs. D is a superstar para. She wants the best for her students and wants to see them be successful and thrive. She is a rockstar in our eyes and our son’s.”
Of the impact Dotoratos has had on Monroe Elementary, Principal Kelly Svendsen said, “Ms. D makes a difference in our school every single day through her patience, positivity and dedication to our students. When she works with students she helps them feel supported, capable and proud. She deserves this. I couldn’t be more thrilled to recognize her for this award.”
“I have known Ms. Dotoratos since she was a parent at Masuk High School. She was a constant presence, volunteering for the Masuk PTC and putting her heart and soul into everything that she did,” said Superintendent Joe Kobza. “I know that she brings that same enthusiasm and passion to the students and staff of Monroe Elementary everyday. This is a well earned recognition.”
The Monroe Paraeducator of the Year program recognizes the vital role these professionals play in the health and success of the district. Shirley Dotoratos will be formally recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting, as well as the district’s end-of-year celebration in June. She will serve as Monroe’s nominee for the State of Connecticut Paraeducator of the Year award.
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