Education Foundation Gala Draws More Than 450 Attendees

More than 450 people turned out Wednesday night at in Washington Township for the fourth annual Westwood-Washington Township Education Foundation Gala.

“This is our largest gala to date and we’re thrilled,” said Foundation President Brenda Cirillo.

“Everyone is here to celebrate our school system,” added Gina Cush, secretary to the Foundation. “The gala brings our whole community together--families, schools and businesses--for the benefit of the children.”

The Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 1991 by parents and community members to enhance the quality of K-12 education in the Westwood Regional School District.

In her opening remarks, Cirillo said proceeds from the 2011 gala would “enhance the visual and performing arts” activities of the schools with plans to create a fully- equipped broadcast studio.

“Last year, we raised $73,500 for the district’s science curriculum,” she said. “In the past three years, the Foundation has donated more than $175,000 to our school district.”

Introducing the awards program, Cirillo said, “Tonight we honor those people who made a significant positive difference in our school environment.” 

Under the glowing chandeliers in the grand ballroom, six teachers, one from each of the schools in the district, and a staff member all received a Dedication to Excellence Award: Jillian Formosa, Berkeley School; Judith King, George School; Joyce Woods, Westwood Regional Middle School; Michele Loscalzo, Washington School; Debra Cummings; Brookside School; Bruce Fideldey, Westwood Jr./Sr. High School; Danny Brando, Westwood Jr./Sr. High School.

This year’s Distinguished Community Member Award went to Westwood Mayor John Birkner Jr., cited for his efforts to reopen Pascack Valley Hospital, expand recreation facilities in the community and support environmental issues.

“I’m very humbled by this,” said Mayor Birkner, accepting his award. “To the disbelief of everyone who knows me, I’m speechless,” he joked, provoking chuckles from the crowd.

Acknowledging the teachers, school administrators and staff of “such a progressive school district,” and the police and municipal council and workers from both Westwood and Washington Township, Mayor Birkner thanked the “great people who work with dedication for our community.”

He also thanked attendees from Hackensack University Medical Center for their efforts to restore a local full-service hospital facility. “We will not be content until the day comes when our hospital is returned,” declared the mayor.

In a meaningful touch, the teacher awards were presented by students who made speeches that ranged from hilarious to heartfelt. Brianna Commerford, 13, told a moving story that paid tribute to Judith King, a teacher at George School.

“I was so excited,” said Brianna, recalling her delight a few years ago when she learned that she would be entering King’s fourth grade class the coming September.

“But then I was diagnosed with cancer,” said Brianna. “I never got to attend school that year. Mrs. King was determined I would remain part of my class,” Brianna said. “She came to my house after school to tutor me, sometimes even on weekends.”

A teacher for 26 years, King remarked afterward, “I was devastated when I heard Brianna had cancer. I was happy to go tutor her. She was an 'A' student, and it’s wonderful to see her well and so healthy now.”

Presenting an award to Danny Brando, custodian at the high school, The “Simon Twins,” as Jake and Alex are known, praised the behind-the-scenes hero who officially “keeps our schools clean” and unofficially “runs the school,” they joked.

“I never expected this,” Brando commented afterward. He said the Simon brothers often worked with him, especially during the summer, moving furniture and helping with other custodial chores.

Earlier in the evening, Bruce Fideldey, a teacher of applied technology at the senior high school said, “I’m very honored to receive this award and grateful to the other faculty and to the staff and administrators who make this such a wonderful school district.”

When asked how it felt to hear the criticism the teaching profession has received from politicians in recent weeks, Jillian Formosa, a first grade teacher at Berkeley School, replied,  “I love teaching and I love my students. You must remember the kids and remember the work you do every day. That’s how I stay focused.”

Showcasing student talents, the gala featured a flute quartet from the senior high school and an art exhibit of paintings, sculptures and other works by students. An online auction continues until Sunday, March 20. Prizes include dinner at the famed Rao’s restaurant in New York, tickets to a Yankee or Mets game, health club services and more. To participate, visit www.wwrsd.org.