TA News

Marisa Cotilletta, Thetford Academy’s Instructional Technology Coordinator, was recently selected by the Vermont-NEA (National Education Association) as a finalist for the 2027 Education Support Professional of the Year award. 

The ESP of the Year award recognizes the important role of Education Support Professionals within the VT-NEA, and honors their outstanding contributions to school communities. Marisa, who has been a part of TA’s Infotech department for more than 12 years, makes it her mission to make technology accessible and approachable for all. With deep expertise in her field, she has helped TA successfully navigate complex network upgrades, implement a 1-1 laptop program, and has streamlined our technology processes – all while gracefully managing the many daily hardware and software needs of a bustling academic institution. 

In her role as union negotiator, Marisa is a strong advocate for colleagues, working to ensure that compensation and benefits are competitive and all employees understand their workplace rights. As her nominator staff accountant Shannon Knowles wrote, “Marisa consistently demonstrates an exceptional ability to advocate for employees while fostering a collaborative and supportive workplace culture…Her approach is thoughtful, informed, and grounded in a genuine desire to support others.” Marisa’s dedication to the role, she says, comes from a conviction that unions “give us the tools we need to improve our lives, our work, and our community.” 

This spring, Marisa will head to Chicago to attend NEA’s national ESP Conference as part of the Vermont delegation. Congratulations, Marisa!