Rep. Jahana Hayes, of Connecticut’s 5th District, became the first ever black congresswoman to represent the state.

Hayes cast her first vote in Congress to elect Nancy Pelosi as speaker of the House.

 Hayes grew up in Waterbury and worked as an educator before serving as the talent and professional development supervisor for Waterbury Public Schools.

In 2016, Hayes won the National Teacher of the Year award.

Pelosi reclaimed the title of House speaker even though newer members like Hayes and New York's Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez initially wanted someone new.

Pelosi said Wednesday that her first job will be to pass a bill to reopen the federal government. It won’t fully fund President Donald Trump's border wall.