Westport educator recognized as Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress Outstanding Educator of the Year

A distinguished award was recently given to a Westport educator.

Sherrie Lees, Brenna Legendre’s devoted teaching assistant for the past 11 years at the Westport Community Schools, was named the 2024 Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress.

Marissa O’Donnell, who presented the award on stage at MDSC’s Annual Educators Forum on behalf of her family’s Let It Shine Fund, explained that Mrs. Lees, who was nominated by Brenna’s mother, Kim Tripp Legendre, goes above and beyond every single day by collaborating with the school administration and teachers to make sure Brenna has the support she needs to succeed and be included.

In order for Brenna to succeed, Sherrie is always collaborating with other educators to create necessary accommodations and changes and to resolve schedule issues. According to Kim, she goes above and above in her work by voluntarily attending seminars and raising concerns with others.

Sherrie returned to work this September after dealing with a personal tragedy in June, stating, “I need to be with Brenna; she gives me the strength to move on.” Kim claims that Mrs. Lees and Brenna have a remarkable bond that is both precious and lovely; no team is like the two of them.

Congratulations on being named the MDSC Outstanding Educator of the Year for 2024, Sherrie!

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