Meet The NJ Teachers + Community Leaders In The Spotlight

NEW JERSEY — While many towns in the Garden State are home to some famous faces, we're taking some time to recognize local educators and community leaders whose work can sometimes go uncelebrated.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile, to help recognize how much our teachers and community leaders are valued and appreciated.

These people “make headlines” with significant and/or meaningful contributions in their communities. Nominators shared personal anecdotes and specific reasons about what makes each one of these people worth shining the spotlight on.

Here are some of the nominees in the Garden State:

"Loved by students and staff:" Veronica Morton, of Galloway

A former colleague had this to say about Veronica: "Super planning, varied materials, always calm, but always in control of classroom behavior, always continuing her education and professional development. Contributes to the school community in a variety of ways. Loved by students and staff. Loves kids!"

"Positive, supportive" of every student: Michael Cintron, of Brick

"He creates strong, positive, supportive bonds with every student he interacts with. His passion for history is clear and he ignites an interest in other cultures for everyone."

A "tireless" local leader: Lauri Rapisardi, of Hackettstown

"Laurie has greatly increased the involvement of the community and surrounding towns to increase awareness of Hackettstown businesses. She has increased the number of events and grown our traditional events, bringing so many new people into town to aid our local businesses and economy. And she has brought in many new businesses in town, filling our storefronts."

"An eternal Boy Scout": Erin Weber, of Basking Ridge

Erin's spouse nominated him for his work helping younger people learn valuable skills like carpentry, painting, tiling, plumbing, and electricity.

"He is an eternal Boy Scout always helping people in his community especially those who are underrepresented. He served his country in the US Marine Corps and continues to give up his time in his community."

"The best" preschool teacher: Daniella Pineno, of Berkeley

"Ms. Pineno is the absolute best early education teacher I have ever met. She embodies every personality trait you would choose in a teacher for young children if you were able to. She is smart, kind, patient, creative, caring and firm but gentle. She knows exactly how to assist small minds into thriving in education."

"A true blessing": Anna Prestera, of Manahawkin

"...she goes above and beyond for her students. Makes them each feel special. They get one on one time with her on lunch. She becomes apart of their whole life. Attends their communions. Invited them to her own wedding. She has the patience of an angel."

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know someone else in your community who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate teachers here, and community leaders here.