New Providence Board honors four Teachers of the Year and an ‘unsung hero’

The New Providence Board of Education used its March 26 meeting to celebrate school staff and student achievement, naming teachers of the year at the district and building levels and presenting the Union County unsung hero award.

Mister Rodriguez, who introduced the high-school honoree, said, “It is my great honor to stand before you this evening to recognize an extraordinary educator … Dan Barletto.” The board highlighted Barletta’s work in advanced tech and construction, his role advising multiple clubs and his involvement coaching football and track teams.

Middle-school teacher Brian Cooper was recognized for sustained classroom leadership and hands-on instruction. Chris Sotelo, who introduced Cooper, said Cooper “connects his lessons to real world examples and designs activities that keep students engaged.” Cooper was praised for classroom consistency and for coaching boys swimming.

Allen W. Roberts’ teacher of the year, Michelle Picarelli, was noted for her long service and close relationships with students; presenters described her as a collaborative co-teacher and an integral first-grade instructor. Salt Brook’s Jennifer Minnick was honored for 35 years in the district and for creating a classroom where students feel “supported, valued, and inspired.” The board also noted that Minnick’s daughter, Tessa Minnick, has been hired as a long-term substitute at Roberts.

Separately, the board read a proclamation recognizing Rose Duvallos for receiving the Union County School Boards Association’s unsung hero award on March 11, 2026. Mister Rodriguez described Duvallos’s community service and advocacy for pediatric-cancer awareness.

The recognitions were followed by a short intermission and the board continued into scheduled business.