Lawrence Teachers Selected for Gov.'s Award Program

Editor's Note: The following is a news release issued by Lawrence Township Public Schools.

On March 27, Lawrence Township Public Schools selected seven teachers as representatives for the annual Governor’s Teacher Recognition Award winners.  A committee of teachers, administrators, Board of Education members, and parents selected current district winners who are:

• Kathleen Saphire, kindergarten teacher at Ben Franklin Elementary School;
• Christine Kelly, special education teacher at Eldridge Park Elementary School;
• Karina McNulty, preschool special education teacher at Lawrenceville Elementary School;
• Pamela DeRiso, academic support at Slackwood Elementary School;
• Judith Bushelow, fifth-grade teacher at Lawrence Intermediate School;
• Bridget Baill, french teacher at Lawrence Middle School, and
• Marjorie Cobin, guidance counselor at Lawrence High School.

Nominees selected must have distinguished themselves during the school year through exceptional contributions.  As established by the state, some of the criteria for selecting teachers are:

• use of effective instructional techniques and methods;
• establishment of productive classroom climate and rapport with students;
• development of feelings of self-worth and love of learning in students.

Crystal Lovell, superintendent, stated, “Congratulations to all of our Governor’s Teacher Recognition Award recipients.  We are so fortunate here in Lawrence to have  such talented, dedicated and caring professional educators.  The positive and encouraging impact they have on our children will last a lifetime.”

Laura Waters, Ph.D., Board of Education president, related, “The Lawrence Township Board of Education salutes our superb teachers. They inspire all of us - children, staff, community members - to incorporate creativity, scholarship, and passion into our chosen professions.”