Stonington — A procession of school brass marched through the student commons at Stonington High School during lunch Tuesday to surprise the district's Educator of the Year with the award annoucement.

Guidance Counselor Holly Saad turned to the booming voice of Principal Mark Friese calling for the attention of all those around as he announced the award bestowed upon her, followed by a round of applause.

Saad, a 12-year veteran of the school, recieved bouquets of flowers presented by Friese, and her sons Beckett, 4, and Hudson, 7, and a hug and kiss from her husband, Nassim, who had known of the award since last week. "It was the hardest secret to keep," he said.

Superintendent Van Riley read the announcement, followed by another round of applause and more hugs.