Vicki Soto was the beloved first child of Donna and Carlos Soto of Stratford, Connecticut. Born on November 4, 1985, she brought immeasurable joy to all who knew her from the very start. A loving and devoted sister to Jillian, Carlee, and Carlos Mathew, Vicki was the heart of her family, the one who brought everyone together with her warmth, humor, and boundless energy. Most cherished to her was the “SOFACRO” gang, as her close-knit group of cousins called themselves. Vicki was their anchor, the one who made sure family traditions thrived and that love remained at the center of everything they did.

 

She took charge of organizing family events, always ensuring that every gathering was filled with laughter and unforgettable moments. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she had an unmatched talent for picking out the perfect Christmas tree. She took Secret Santa to a whole new level, making sure it was a tradition that everyone looked forward to year after year. Whether it was holiday celebrations, spontaneous outings, or just an ordinary day, Vicki infused everything with a sense of fun and togetherness.

 

Vicki’s friendships were just as meaningful as her family bonds. She had many friends, but no one could ever replace Rachel, her soul sister since their early college days. Their bond was unbreakable, filled with endless laughter, adventures, and a deep understanding of one another. And then there was Roxie, her beloved black Labrador, whom she adored beyond measure. Roxie wasn’t just a pet—she was family. Vicki would dress her up and affectionately call her “Rita,” “Rita Ann,” “Rooney,” and “Angela,” for reasons only she knew, adding to the endless joy and humor she brought into every aspect of life.

 

Vicki was beautiful inside and out. Her striking blue eyes and radiant smile were matched only by her intelligence, kindness, and infectious laughter. Some would say she was perfect, not because she was without flaws, but because she embraced life with such passion and authenticity. She lived each day with a sense of purpose, appreciating the little things and finding joy in every moment. Her mantra, Live, Laugh, Love, wasn’t just a phrase—it was how she moved through life. She lived with passion, laughed with her whole heart, and loved unconditionally.

 

To her first-grade students at Sandy Hook Elementary School, she was simply “Ms. Soto,” a dedicated, creative, and endlessly caring teacher who made learning an adventure. Teaching wasn’t just a job for Vicki—it was her calling. She poured her heart into her classroom, creating a space where children felt safe, encouraged, and excited to learn. She understood how young minds worked, tailoring her lessons so that every child could grow and thrive. She wasn’t just a teacher; she was a mentor, a role model, and a source of unwavering support.

 

Vicki’s classroom was filled with energy, laughter, and love. She prided herself on being the “cool” teacher, the one who made learning fun and engaging. Spirit Week was one of her favorite times of the year—she would dress up in the silliest outfits, wear mismatched clothes, or style her hair in outrageous ways, all just to bring joy to her students. She was the first one in the building every morning and the last to leave, tirelessly planning lessons to make each day better than the one before. Her enthusiasm for education was contagious, and she left a lasting impact on every child who had the privilege of being in her classroom.

 

Though Vicki was taken from us far too soon, her spirit endures. She lived with purpose, teaching us all how to embrace life, cherish our loved ones, and find joy in the simplest moments. Through the Vicki Soto Memorial Scholarship, her passion for education will continue to inspire future teachers, ensuring that her legacy of love, laughter, and learning lives on for generations to come.