These 20 West Orange Teachers Are Making A Big Difference

WEST ORANGE, NJ — They’re some of West Orange’s finest educators – and now they have official proof.

West Orange School Superintendent Scott Cascone recently released a list of 20 West Orange School District Governor’s Educator of the Year recipients.

According to a news release from district officials:

“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.”

The list included:

Betty Maddalena Early Learning Center

• Elizabeth Rubin, PreK Special Education
• Shari Whitman, Social Worker

Edison

• Jessica Byrne, Grade Six Math
• Carlene Hernandez, Social Worker

Gregory

• Lisa Picini-Asman, Physical Education & Health

Hazel

• Karen Lott, BSI

Kelly

• Cynthia Cooney, BSI
• Florence Chirichiello, School Counselor

Liberty

• Nancy Silva, 7th Grade ELA
• Todd Cohen, LDTC

Mt. Pleasant

• Ali Fazzio, Kindergarten
• Brianna Grasso, School Nurse

Redwood

• Kristen Dunleavy, POR Special Education
• Nancy Hopkins, Paraprofessional

Roosevelt

• Nicole Eoon, Special Education Math

St. Cloud

• Tara Capra, Grade Five
• Melissa Bensen, Paraprofessional (not pictured)

Washington

• Luz Latimer, ESL

West Orange High School

• Lee Cohen, School Psychologist
• Anthony Perconti, Special Education (not pictured)

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