Westport Public Schools is proud to announce that Emily Diggs, a Grade 6 language arts teacher at Coleytown Middle School, has been selected as an Honored Teacher by the Connecticut Writing Project-Storrs in recognition of her impact on student writers.

Diggs will be recognized as part of the Connecticut Writing Project-Storrs 2026 Student Recognition Night, held on Thursday, May 14, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Connecticut in Storrs. The annual celebration honors student writers and artists, along with educators whose teaching helps young people grow in voice, confidence, and craft.

The Connecticut Writing Project’s Connecticut Student Writing Contest and Connecticut Student Writers magazine have recognized excellence in writing and art among students in kindergarten through grade 12 since 1987. Each year, the program highlights student achievement while also celebrating the teachers who inspire and support that work.

This year’s event will feature selected student speakers from grades K-12 reading their winning pieces from the stage. Award-winning author Jennifer De Leon, an associate professor of creative writing at Framingham State University and author of Borderless, Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From, and White Space: Essays on Culture, Race, & Writing, will serve as keynote speaker.

Diggs’ recognition reflects the meaningful work taking place in Westport classrooms each day, where students are encouraged to think deeply, write clearly, and share their ideas with purpose. Her selection as an Honored Teacher shines a light on the important role educators play in helping students develop both their skills and their voices.