Manasquan's 'Teachers of the Year' Honored

Manasquan Schools Superintendent Geraldine Margin on Tuesday honored this year's two teachers of the year and said goodbye to two others who are retiring this summer. 

Catherine Taft and Maryanna Freda were named this year's teachers of the year in the Elementary School and High School, respectively. 

Mary Ann Monahan and Karen Norby, both longtime art instructors in the district, are set to retire this June. 

Margin at Tuesday's School Board meeting reflected on the outstanding work all four teachers have done during their tenures at Manasquan schools. 

Taft, who has taught the fourth grade at the Elementary School since 2001, always seemed to have her students involved and active in class, Margin said.

"She's been a great asset to our Elementary School. We're really lucky to have her," Margin said.

Freda, a High School math teacher in the district since 1981, has a reputation for holding all of her students to the highest standards while ensuring that each has what they need to be successful, Margin said.

Freda is also often invited by National Honor Society inductees to their induction ceremonies, when students are asked to bring a teacher that has significantly impacted their educational careers or lives, Margin said.

"I have to say as a mathematics teaher, to have that kind of inspiration is very special," said Margin, who also used to teach math. 

And regarding the district's two soon-to-be retirees, Margin said she would be sad to see them go.

"Regretably I have to talk about the next two teachers because they're retiring," Margin said.

Norby worked as the High School's art teacher from 1971 to 1979 and then returned to the district to teach elementary art in 1991, Margin said.

The superintendent pointed to the student-made art work lining the Elementary School halls and on display at its annual art show as a testament to Norby's work.

"You would know how wonderful Mrs. Norby has been in inspiring students and their creativity (if you saw the art on display)," Margin said.

Monahan has taken turns as the art teacher of both district schools since 1977, Margin said.

"(Monahan) has a way of encouraging the best creative talents out of each student," Margin said. "We're so grateful for everything that she has done."