Wall Township Board recognizes educators, support staff at annual awards

The Wall Township Board of Education on Jan. 20 honored teachers and educational service professionals from across the district as part of its annual January recognition of outstanding staff.

The presentations, introduced by Superintendent Dr. Handerhan, highlighted nominees selected by school-based committees. "Tonight is one of my favorite meetings," Dr. Handerhan said, thanking staff and family members for attending. Principal Allworth introduced Ashley Jordan as Wall Primary School’s Educational Service Professional of the Year, noting her 16 years on the child study team and "her calm, respectful demeanor and positive attitude."

Other honorees included Jacqueline Zarraza as Allenwood School’s Teacher of the Year; Kelsey Magliaro for counseling and child-study work; Peggy Rozelle (Old Mill School) and Kristen Iorio (Old Mill School paraprofessional) for long service and student support; Claire McGregor and Kelly Eastman for West Belmar School; and Mandy Arenio, Jessica Niscotch and Mandy Rorty for Wall Intermediate and Wall High School recognition. Presenters emphasized collaboration, special-education supports, counseling services and extracurricular leadership.

The district noted the teacher/service professional selection process begins with nominations from students, staff and families at the start of the school year, then advances through school committees. Dr. Handerhan said the awards are part of a broader effort to "shine a light on the excellence that is happening" in district classrooms.

Board President Mister Malouf and other members presented tokens and invited recipients and families to be photographed. In related announcements, the board invited the public to a choir and orchestra concert and a dedication of Hollander Hall later in the week.

The meeting closed the recognition portion of the agenda before moving on to regular business and public comment.