Meet The Teacher Spreading Joy And Compassion At Long Meadow Elementary School

Naugatuck, Connecticut — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Naugatuck is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Kristie Zembruski, who nominated Olivia Zembruski of Long Meadow Elementary.

What is the school hero’s name?

Long Meadow Elementary

Where does this school hero work?

Olivia Zembruski

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Olivia is going into her fourth year of teaching fourth grade. She is the most amazing fourth grade teacher. Her children love her, her coworkers adore her. She is easy to work with, she is understanding, she has a heart of gold. Her students and everyone who works with her are better people for having had her in their lives.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

My daughter

What should your community know about this person?

Olivia is selfless. Olivia gives all that she has to her students and coworkers at LEMS. She spends endless hours going through books for her students, making sure her classroom is in its "fourth grade era." Olivia is a huge Taylor Swift fan and has decorated her classroom in such a way that not only does she have Taylor vibes in there every day her students absolutely love it. She is patient, she’s understanding, and all of her students leave knowing that they could come back to her at any time just to say hello or give her a quick hug.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Compassionate, understanding, hilarious

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.