Montgomery Township School District Honors 2025 Educators of the Year
March 24, 2025
By Nicholas Mistretta
MONTGOMERY, NJ — In a celebration of dedication, passion, and educational excellence, the Montgomery Township School District honored its 2025 Educators of the Year during a special ceremony held at the Board of Education meeting on March 18, 2025.
The annual recognition event celebrates outstanding teachers and educational service professionals from across the district’s schools, applauding their commitment to students and the broader school community.
Superintendent Mary McLoughlin opened the evening by highlighting the importance of recognizing educators who go above and beyond in their roles. “The New Jersey Department of Education recognizes the exceptional contributions of educators through various national and state programs each year,” she said. “These honored educators serve as spokespersons and ambassadors for the profession, and their work represents the very best of what we do in public education.”
Each school in the district had the opportunity to honor two individuals—one teacher and one educational service professional—for their exemplary work.
At Montgomery High School, Principal Heather Pino introduced Mathew Fluke as Teacher of the Year and Kelly Appel as Educational Service Professional of the Year, recognizing their impact on both academic achievement and student support.
Upper Middle School interim Principal Matthew Barbosa praised Karen Kevorkian, named Teacher of the Year, and Allison Doyle Smith, a guidance counselor recognized as Educational Service Professional of the Year, for their dedication to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Lower Middle School Principal Lisa Romano, along with Assistant Principal Scott Pachuta, honored Adriana Gonzalez Delgado as Teacher of the Year and Amy Costa as Educational Service Professional of the Year, applauding their passion and commitment to student growth.
At Village Elementary School, Principal Susan Lacy celebrated Kelly Bussin as Teacher of the Year and Jolene Schantz, a school counselor, as Educational Service Professional of the Year, highlighting their nurturing approach and strong connections with students and families.
Orchard Hill Elementary School Principal Dan Van Hise announced Lisa Piccarillo as Teacher of the Year and Melissa Patane, a school counselor, as Educational Service Professional of the Year, commending their creativity and compassionate care for students.
The ceremony was filled with heartfelt applause as colleagues, students, and families joined in honoring the incredible contributions of this year’s recipients.
As Superintendent McLoughlin noted, “These educators are more than just teachers and staff members—they are mentors, leaders, and role models who make a lasting difference in the lives of our students every day.”