Elaine Frances Perzan Zottola has passed away, just shy of 82nd birthday.  She was the daughter of Joseph and Helen Perzan, and younger sister of Wanda Buccheri.  They raised her to be strong, ambitious, and fiercely proud of her Polish heritage. They succeeded.  Elaine was a golden girl from birth, and a Polish beauty for life. In her youth, she was a school star, a NBHS Canette and a scholar. She held degrees from Albertus Magnus College, Fordham University and Southern CT State University. 

Upon returning to live in New Britain, Elaine entered a lifelong career in education, as a teacher and dedicated administrator for New Britain Schools. Her work in the emergent field of Special Education was pioneering. Her passion and dedication to the Fine Arts was limitless. Elaine also helped to lay the groundwork for starting two new schools: The Klingberg School and the first principal of HALS Academy in New Britain.

Elaine's service and dedication to New Britain Schools, spanned 38 years, serving as a productive and capable Vice Principal and Principal. But that was not the end of it. Whether it was the theater, the NBHS Marching Band or the Fine Arts department. Elaine involved herself in any way she could whether as a performer, a producer, a make- up artist, or a chaperone. No aspect of any production was neglected. Students at Holy Cross, Aquinas and especially NBHS were her' clients for decades and affectionately referred to her as "Mama Z". 

Elaine's love for her hometown remained steadfast throughout her life. After long days at work, she spent nights and weekends involved with the Junior League, The NBMAA, The Race in the Park, The New Britain Symphony, and the Arts Alliance.  In these organizations and others, she usually led. Even after she retired, Elaine went on and served as a member of the New Britain Board of Education. 

Ultimately, her greatest joys were her children, AJ, Paul and Mary and their spouses, Bethany, Heather, and Matt and her grandchildren, Amelia, Marian, Sabrina, Mason, Olivia, and Gracie. All filled her with endless pride and joy. All were with her to the end.  

Elaine married the love of her life, Armand Zottola. They were married for 60 years. Together, they were soulmates, teammates, and mutual partners.  We will all miss her fiercely and we will all forever cherish her. 

A private celebration of life for Elaine will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to N.B.H.S. Stage c/o Bobby Smedley or Jason Ferradino 110 Mill St. New Britain, CT 06051.