JACKSON – During the latest Board of Education meeting, teachers and educational services professionals of the year were recognized.
Board of Education President Megan Gardella remarked “every day, you do far more than teach lessons or support students. You create spaces where students feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving more than they imagined possible. You challenge them to think deeply, encourage them to persevere, and remind them – sometimes when they need it most – that they matter and that their future is filled with opportunity.”
“Your impact extends beyond your students. You uplift your colleagues, strengthen your school communities, and help shape a culture rooted in support, collaboration, and care. Because of you, our schools are places where learning thrives and where students know they are supported every step of the way,” Gardella added.
Those recognized included Crawford-Rodriguez Elementary SchoolSpecial Education Teacher Jessica Muth and Media Specialist Jennifer Brenner, Elms Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Melissa Barnfield and Paraprofessional Barbara Croke, Holman Elementary School Special Education Teacher Deborah Kowalewski and Physical Therapist Natalie Zozzaro, Johnson Elementary School Teacher Danielle Anastasia and Paraprofessional Isel Fucito, Switlik Elementary School Special Education Teacher Kelly Barth and School Nurse Lisa Archer, Preschool Annex Teacher Anna Simmons and Paraprofessional Ashley Accisano, Jackson Township 5-6 School Special Education Teacher Maria Peters and Social Worker Kerry Competello, Jackson Township Middle School Teacher Robert Stuart and Parent Liaison Jose Diaz and Jackson Township High School Business Teacher Lisa Scott and Guidance Counselor Dawn Siegle.
Gardella said, “on behalf of the entire Board of Education and our school community, thank you for the countless ways you inspire, lead, and serve. We are proud to honor you, grateful for all that you do, and fortunate to have you as part of our district family.”
School officials also chose a district Teacher of the Year and a district Educational Services Professional of the Year.
Gardella said, “for her exceptional dedication, we are proud to formally recognize Preschool Annex Paraprofessional Ashley Accisano as the Educational Services Professional of the Year. This staff member is the heart of the halls she walks through each day. She is celebrated for her remarkable memory, which allows her to know every student’s name, their siblings’ names, even their pets’ names – all within the first week of school.”
The Board President then noted that this year’s District Teacher of the Year was Jackson Township High School Business Teacher Lisa Scott. “This teacher exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary educator. Her impact extends far beyond the confines of her classroom.”
She noted that Scott was “instrumental in bringing DECA to Jackson, she has expanded opportunities for students and opened doors to real-world experiences that prepare them for success long after graduation. Her connection with students is both meaningful and transformative. She reaches learners in ways that inspire confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.”
