Hillsborough Teacher Named 'Teacher Of The Year'

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Shannan Fusco was among 16 Goddard School teachers from across the country who were selected as Teacher of the Year regional finalists for exemplifying excellence, leadership, creativity and a safe, nurturing teaching approach.

As a kindergarten teacher at The Goddard School of Hillsborough, Shannan weaves inquiry-based lessons into her curriculum and leads annual service initiatives that help her students connect with their community in meaningful ways, according to the Goddard School.

"I’m honored to be recognized as a Teacher of the Year regional finalist and incredibly thankful to those who nominated me," said Fusco. "Witnessing the growth and accomplishments of my students fills me with immense pride and joy. I’m excited to continue creating rewarding experiences for my students and their families."

"Shannan’s attention to detail, leadership and advocacy for student well-being make her a true role model in teaching," said Kaitlin Stahl, owner of The Goddard School of Hillsborough. "Seeing her named a Teacher of the Year regional finalist reaffirms what our families already know—Shannan is one of the very best in early childhood education."

Now in its 19th year, The Goddard School Teacher of the Year Award recognizes extraordinary Goddard School educators who bring enthusiasm to teaching and inspire wonder in their students.

This year, more than 4,300 teachers from across The Goddard School’s more than 640 locations were nominated by families and their colleagues in four classroom categories (infant, toddler, preschool/pre-k and kindergarten/school-age) across four regions (Northeast, Southeast, Midwest and West).

As 2025 Teacher of the Year regional finalists, GSL gifted Fusco with a $1,000 cash award, branded Goddard merchandise, a framed certificate and a one-year subscription to the ChildCare Education Institute, giving them unlimited access to more than 200 professional development courses.