Edison Educator Honored For Innovative Special Services Leadership

EDISON, NJ — Edison Township Public Schools announced that Thomas Toohey, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Special Services, has been named a 2026 ClassLink Visionary Educator, a national recognition honoring education leaders who use vision, innovation and technology to transform teaching and learning.

Toohey was selected for his leadership in developing programs that remove barriers, personalize learning and help students build pathways toward long-term success. Central to that work is Edison Success Academy, a district program he developed to support high school students facing academic, behavioral, emotional and attendance-related challenges.

"Dr. Toohey has an extraordinary ability to see possibilities for students where others may see barriers," said Dr. Edward Aldarelli, Superintendent of Edison Township Public Schools. "His work reflects what we want innovation to mean in Edison. It is purposeful, student-centered, and focused on creating opportunities for every student to succeed."

Toohey led a cross-departmental team in designing Edison Success Academy as a therapeutic, proficiency-based program built around personalized pathways, meaningful relationships, student wellness and future readiness. The academy incorporates technology-enhanced instruction, flexible scheduling, real-time progress monitoring, telecounseling supports, restorative practices and work-based learning opportunities.

"At the heart of this work is a simple belief: every student deserves to be seen, supported, and given a meaningful pathway forward," Toohey said. "This recognition belongs to the incredible educators, staff members, students, families, and partners who believe, as I do, that innovation matters most when it creates better opportunities for children."

Toohey's leadership has also helped expand transition programming through the district's participation in Collaboration in Transition New Jersey, an $8.6 million federally funded initiative. Edison was one of three New Jersey districts selected for the program, which focuses on independence, employment, career readiness and successful transitions beyond high school.

The ClassLink honor adds to a growing list of recognition for Toohey, who was named New Jersey Special Education Administrator of the Year in May 2026. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Monmouth University and presents at state and national conferences.

"Tom's leadership reminds us that innovation is not simply about introducing something new," Aldarelli said. "It is about finding better ways to serve students. Edison Success Academy is a powerful example of what can happen when we combine innovation, collaboration, technology, and an unwavering belief in what students can achieve."

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