Cate Gosselin was surprised in a Head O' Meadow Elementary School classroom on May 16, with students surrounding her, with the news that she had been chosen as Newtown's Paraeducator of the Year.

Superintendent of Schools Joseph V. Erardi, Jr, and others visited the classroom to surprise Ms Gosselin with the news. Dr Erardi carried flowers with him.

"She is being honored today as the absolute best of the best," Dr Erardi told students.

Students clapped for her as the news was shared. Smiling, Ms Gosselin said she was "shocked" and surprised by the news.

According to the district, Ms Gosselin has worked in Newtown Public Schools since 2005, when she started at Sandy Hook Elementary School. She started working at Head O' Meadow in 2014.

Dr Erardi asked the students if they know who does the best work with students, always smiles, and is always nice. The students were quick to answer or point to Ms Gosselin.

Ms Gosselin will be honored at the state level for the honor in the fall, according to the district.