Keansburg Board of Education honors district teachers, support staff and educators of the year

The Keansburg Board of Education opened its Jan. 10 meeting by recognizing a slate of building-level and districtwide award winners for the 2025–26 school year. Presenters highlighted classroom teachers, instructional aides and support staff from across the district and invited honorees to join the board for applause.

Among the building-level honorees, Joe Lorraco, principal at Boulder Middle School, introduced teacher Tara Kakowski as that school’s teacher of the year, praising her consistency, patience and ability to build strong relationships with students. "She puts her whole heart into her work," Lorraco said. Later in the meeting the district committee selected Kakowski as the district educator of the year for 2025–26.

Sean Henry, vice principal at Caruso, introduced Thomas Anderson as the district educational services professional of the year, commending his patience and steady support for students in multi-grade special education. Henry said Anderson will be promoted to teach Spanish at Bulger.

Other awardees included building-level recognitions across the district: Janna Rash (classroom educator recognition), Diane Numei (preschool/gross motor programming and community outreach), Rebecca Domus (instructional support professional at Bulger), Bill Padone (high‑school support staff member of the year), and Danielle Myra (high‑school teacher and art‑club adviser). Presenters emphasized each honoree’s impact on students, school climate and community engagement.

The board paused for applause and brief remarks honoring the winners before proceeding to routine business. The awards segment concluded with districtwide thanks to the board during School Board Appreciation Month.