Retiring Principal Honored With Bench At Chester School

CHESTER, NJ — An educator who made an impact on the Chester School District was recognized by the community for the difference she made in the lives of children.

Last week, Michele Stanton, the outgoing principal of Bragg School, was honored with a special bench dedication as a way to commemorate her impact within the school district.

Stanton began her career within the Chester School District 33 years ago, and since then she has worked as a teacher, math coach, dean of students, supervisor of instruction and most recently, as the principal of Bragg School.

The Bragg School, which is located at 250 Route 24 in Chester, is a highly rated public school with 325 students in grades 3-5 and an 8-to-1 student-teacher ratio.

"Mrs. Stanton is a dynamic and dedicated educator who always puts children first and has been a champion of Chester's children since 1989. She is one of the most hard-working, creative, and energetic educators I have ever worked with and has left a long-standing positive impact on Chester's children that will last for years to come," Superintendent of Schools Christina Van Woert told Patch in February when Stanton announced her resignation.

Stanton decided to leave the district earlier this year, and she intends to use her newfound freedom in retirement to visit and support family and friends who live outside of New Jersey, as well as to pursue other interests.

The red bench, which was donated by the Chester PTO, will serve as a permanent tribute to Stanton within the school district.

The Chester PTO is a school community organization that funds many of the programs, clubs, and activities that children participate in throughout the school year. All funds raised by the PTO throughout the year are reinvested directly into the schools and classrooms, officials said.

"I know that Bragg will continue to be an amazing place to learn because the staff is incredible. We have accomplished so many wonderful things, and I know we are in a good place right now," Stanton previously told Patch.