Rogers Park Middle School erupted in cheers Friday as sixth grade social studies teacher Brian Betesh was named Connecticut’s Teacher of the Year.

As the students entered the assembly, they thought the television cameras, high school band, and elected officials were there to celebrate perfect attendance.

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“We’re really here today to celebrate something big,” said Charlene M. Russell-Tucker, Connecticut’s commissioner of education.

Before Russell-Tucker could finish announcing the surprise award, the students exploded with screams and cheers. Faculty and staff held up pictures of Betesh’s face on popsicle sticks around the auditorium.

Betesh, now in his 19th year of teaching, has deep roots in Rogers Park: it’s the

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