Rep. Joe McGonagle is pleased to announce that Lafayette school paraprofessional Jeffrey Gomez was nominated and honored at the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus 2026 Latino Excellence on the Hill Awards. The annual awards invite legislators to recognize the great work being done in their community by those of Latino background. Gomez works with the special education students in the kindergarten classrooms.
“When Lafayette Principal Janet Taylor recommended Jeffrey as the nominee, I was blown away by the testimony she gave,” said McGonagle. “Here is a man who dedicates his career to helping some of our most vulnerable students and community members. I’ve seen the struggles of learning difficulties in children firsthand, so I know it is not an easy task. Yet, Jeffrey is exemplary in this field. He possesses a rare patience and incredible flexibility; necessary to helping these students get everything they need to succeed. The Lafayette School and Everett community are lucky to have Jeffrey in our corner.”
Jeffrey was among nominees from all over the Commonwealth, who enjoyed a morning of community, music and food. The event saw speeches from Speaker of the House Ron Mariano, Senate President Karen Spilka, Division Leader Carlos Gonzalez and many more. Each honoree was given a citation from the caucus and their nominating legislator to commemorate the honor.
