West Orange School District Names 2021-22 Governor's Educator of the Year Recipients
WEST ORANGE, NJ – Superintendent Dr. Scott Cascone announced the list of 20 West Orange School District Governor’s Educator of the Year recipients on Dec. 15.
Each year, the New Jersey State Department of Education Governor's Educator of the Year Program “highlights educational innovation, student achievement, exemplary teaching, and important services outside the classroom environment that lead to student success.” This celebratory program recognizes the state’s best teachers and educational services professionals.
Based on community and district nominations, recipients are selected according to specific criteria. They must be educators in a PK to grade 12 public or charter school where teaching is the primary responsibility rather than administrative or supervisory responsibilities, or educational services professionals (ESP) who are listed as one of the eligible enrollment areas.
Honorees must be experts in their fields who inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn; actively collaborate with colleagues, students, and families to create a strong culture of respect and success; demonstrate leadership and innovation in educational activities; and have the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues.
Betty Maddalena Early Learning Center
Elizabeth Rubin, PreK Special Education
Shari Whitman, Social Worker
Gregory
Lisa Picini-Asman, Physical Education & Health
Hazel
Karen Lott, BSI
Kelly
Cynthia Cooney, BSI
Florence Chirichiello, School Counselor
Mt. Pleasant
Ali Fazzio, Kindergarten
Brianna Grasso, School Nurse
Redwood
Kristen Dunleavy, POR Special Education
Nancy Hopkins, Paraprofessional
St. Cloud
Tara Capra, Grade Four ELA
Melissa Bensen, Paraprofessional (not pictured)
Washington
Luz Latimer, ESL
Edison
Jessica Byrne, Grade Six Math
Carlene Hernandez, Social Worker
Liberty
Nancy Silva, 7th Grade ELA
Todd Cohen, LDTC
Roosevelt
Nicole Eoon, Special Education Math
West Orange High School
Lee Cohen, School Psychologist
Anthony Perconti, Special Education
Dec. 18, 2021