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Berkeley Heights Board names Educators of the Year across district
Summary
At its June 10 meeting the Board honored multiple Educators of the Year from across the Berkeley Heights School District—recognitions highlighted teachers’ teaching approaches, special education collaboration and arts leadership.
The Berkeley Heights Board of Education recognized its 2024 Educators of the Year on June 10, honoring teachers from early childhood through high school for years of service, instructional innovation and community engagement.
Karen Twill of Mary K. McMillan Early Childhood Center was recognized for literacy expertise and a multisensory approach to kindergarten instruction that the Board said fosters inclusive early learning. Katherine Finlin of William Woodruff School was honored for more than three decades of service and her work in co-taught special education settings. Carla Gamba of Mountain Park Elementary was cited for hands-on science instruction and leadership in remediation and after-school programs. Jared Puus (Thomas P. Hughes Elementary) received praise for strong family communication and classroom engagement. Roberta Gutch of Columbia Middle School was recognized for building relationships and collaborative inclusion practices in special education. Michelle Harpster (Governor Livingston High School) was named the high school’s Educator of the Year for advancing fine arts instruction and for leading extracurricular arts programs.
Presenters included PTO representatives and school principals who nominated each honoree; teachers accepted plaques and addressed the assembly, often thanking colleagues, families and students. The Board emphasized that each educator’s work contributes to student development and to district culture. The recognitions were followed by applause and a district acknowledgement of the retirees who would be honored later in the program.
