Mendham Teachers, Support Professionals Of Year Honored For 2023-24

MENDHAM, NJ — The Mendham Township School District has announced the teachers and education support professionals of the year for the 2023–24 school year, who are being honored through the Governor's Educator of the Year program.

The program honors teachers and support professionals for their efforts to engage students and help them grow in and out of the classroom.

The district nominated two teachers and two educational services professionals for the 2023–2024 Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.

The Governor’s Educator of the Year nominees are:

• Lisa Lombardo, Elementary School Teacher
• Hillary Clark, Educational Services Professional
• Corrine Butler, Middle School Teacher

• Dan DePugh, Educational Services Professional

“We are so proud of our amazing faculty, exemplifying what it means to be an educator. Each one demonstrates our motto—every student, every day—by giving our children the attention and dedication they need to succeed,” said Superintendent Sal Constantino. “These professionals continue to elevate Mendham Township schools and truly deserve this recognition."

According to the district, Lombardo, a fourth-grade teacher, works hard to foster a sense of community in her classroom. She strives to instill a love of learning in each of her kids and goes out of her way to ensure that students look forward to going to school.

She received her bachelor's degree from Rutgers University and is currently pursuing her Mindful-Based Stress Reduction Certificate from Brown University.

Clark, Mendham Township Elementary School counselor, is passionate about assisting children in developing skills that promote good emotional and physical habits. She has been working in education for almost 20 years and specializes in counseling. She thinks that all students have the right to safe, high-quality care and that a loving environment promotes student progress.

Butler has been a tremendous help to MTMS's Special Education department. She has 27 years of experience teaching grades 5-8 and has helped kids study a wide range of courses. She earned a dual degree in elementary education and special education from Seton Hall University.

DePugh is the athletic director of Mendham Township Middle School. He is dedicated to assisting students in excelling in physical education. He consistently encourages students to achieve their best and strive for their full potential.

The Governor’s Educator of the Year Program encourages all New Jersey school districts to select “exceptionally skilled and dedicated” staff members for recognition. The recognition is intended to showcase educators who have created an inviting culture in the classroom and among families and colleagues.