Stratford officials are honoring Victoria Soto, a teacher who was killed protecting her students in Sandy Hook. 

The Stratford native would have celebrated her 30th birthday today. 

A Stratford school dedicated in her name did something unique to celebrate the special day.

Students and teachers decorated the school with pink flamingos, her favorite animal, and balloons in her favorite color of green. They say it's a way school officials can make sure her memory lives on.

A district-wide program is also being held at the school, called the Ms. Soto's Literacy Legacy Program. 

All the students in elementary schools are reading books to celebrate Soto's passion for education.

They say it's a bittersweet moment, but they can't think of a better way to honor her memory.