A lifetime of teaching honored with lifesize statue

Sep. 14—SOUTH WINDSOR — At the age of 6, longtime South Windsor educator Andrea Borrelli knew she wanted to be a teacher when she grew up, and it was evident in her childhood activities.

Her husband, Matthew Borrelli, who also taught in South Windsor, said when she was little she used to set her teddy bears up in a line in front of her as if they were her students.

Eventually those childhood fantasies came true, but what Andrea Borrelli didn't know was how much of an impact her family-like teaching style would be to the thousands who crossed her path.

"Andrea has been a spectacular teacher her whole life," Matthew Borrelli said.

After 35 years of teaching and 20 years of enjoying retirement, Andrea Borrelli's career will finally be honored Saturday with a reception and unveiling of a life-size statue at the South Windsor Public Library.

"This is a form of recognition that is 35 years late," Matthew Borrelli said.

Andrea Borrelli taught at elementary schools in South Windsor for more than 30 years after starting her career in Hartford. During her time in South Windsor, she became the favorite among students because of how she loved and trusted them.

"She got her kids to believe that they were somebody," her husband said.

By eating lunch with her students every day, throwing them pajama parties, and trusting them to complete simple tasks alone, Borrelli created everlasting connections.

Matthew Borrelli said there was a time when a former student recognized her when she brought her car into an auto shop to get fixed.

"A giant guy with tattoos comes out and lifts Mrs. Borrelli up off of the ground and said 'You changed my life, I have to call my mother,'" he said.

During her time in the South Windsor school system, Andrea Borrelli created a multi-age program that allowed third graders to teach what they were learning to second graders.

"It was a tremendous experience for kids," Matthew Borrelli said. "They became a teacher, big brother, and big sister."

He said that the second graders looked forward to going to third grade, so they could be the ones responsible for educating the younger children.

"Most parents really loved it and loved her," he said.

When Andrea Borrelli retired in 2002, she refused any sort of recognition or celebration.

Despite her wishes, faculty members arrived at the school before her one day — which was a rarity — and surprised her with a pajama retirement party.

Two decades later, a 250-pound statue will honor her career at the public library.

In 2017, Borrelli was diagnosed with memory loss, which is why her husband wanted the statue to be completed as soon as possible.

"I wanted to do something to memorialize her while she still can see it," Matthew Borrelli said.

He said the idea struck him when he noticed the small statues inside the town's library.

After extensive research, Borrelli eventually came across a place in China that builds statues and he decided to have one designed for his wife.

"It's a very beautiful statue," Library Chairwoman Kathy Chiappetta said. "He wanted that in her honor."

It took around six months for the statue to arrive in South Windsor.

Library Director Mary Etter said the statue originally shipped to the public works garage so they could measure the dimensions and build a base.

The statue, which includes Andrea Borrelli and two children reading books, arrived in early August and now sits in front of the library.

Matthew Borrelli encourages anyone who worked with or had her as a teacher to attend the celebration, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

"It's wonderful to have something that celebrates teachers and the wonderful relationships that can grow between a teacher and her student," Etter said.

Collin covers South Windsor and East Hartford for the Journal Inquirer.