4 Red Bank Educators Recognized By NJ Department Of Education

RED BANK, NJ — Four educators in the Red Bank Borough Public School District have been recognized by the NJ Department of Education (NJ DOE), the district recently announced.

Each year, the NJ DOE recognizes teachers and educational services professionals throughout the state and honors educators based on the following criteria. Candidates must:

• Be exceptionally skilled and dedicated licensed classroom teachers, where teaching is the primary
• Responsibility OR an educational services professional (ESP)
• Have the latest summative rating of at least effective
• Be an expert in the field who inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn
• actively collaborate with colleagues, students, and families to create a strong culture of respect and success
• Demonstrate leadership and innovation in educational activities
• Have the respect and admiration of students, parents and colleagues

As participants of the NJ DOE’s Governor’s Educator of the Year Program, district officials said they’re honored to highlight teachers who have been recognized by the department for their educational achievements.

At Red Bank Primary School, special education teacher Jennifer Rigby was named the 2025 Governor’s Educator of the Year for the school. In a statement sent to the district, one parent said:

The progress that we have seen in our child (both academically and behaviorally) has been incredible. Ms. Rigby was able to identify the appropriate learning tools for him, and knows how to communicate with his therapists or with us at home to figure out the best methods for him to learn and succeed in the classroom. She BELIEVES in our children.

Ms. Rigby has an amazing ability to make things fun and meaningful for the students while still pushing them to reach their full potential. When my child sees Ms. Rigby outside of the classroom, he lights up with pure joy, which proves to me how much he loves her and what a wonderful teacher she is! Ms. Rigby attends numerous extracurricular school functions and can be found spending a Friday night serving popcorn with her husband.

At Red Bank Middle School, art teacher Diana Archila was named the 2025 Governor’s Educator of the Year for the middle school. In a statement sent to the district, one staff member said:

Diana is without a doubt both exceptionally skilled and dedicated. Every student who walks into her classroom is treated the same, no matter their perceived ability. She makes every student feel seen and valued, ensuring the room is a space of unconditional respect and growth. Her unique talents are a part of larger school events, with her contributions to the school community showcased at various activities.

Diana lends her bilingualism to conferences, assemblies and events. As a resident of Red Bank, she understands the community at large and, as such, has been able to form a dynamic relationship with students, parents and staff. Spending time with students to provide them with time to prepare for the rigorous expectations of the Red Bank Regional academies highlights her dedication to the success of our students.

With some of her work displayed in and around Red Bank, you could say these areas have become an extension of her classroom.

In the overall district, school psychologist Joanne Fiore has been named the 2025 Educational Services Professional for the Red Bank Borough Public School District. Below is a snippet from the submitted nomination letter:

Joanne is simply one of the most exceptionally skilled and dedicated professionals. What makes her so invaluable is her deep, historical knowledge of our students, their families, and their needs — she remembers and applies the longitudinal information that keeps our team highly effective.

What's most impressive is that she never settles; she constantly seeks out professional growth, diving into complex topics like anxiety and behavioral supports and taking the lead on mastering new systems. Joanne’s approach is always thoughtful and reflective, showing a profound, personal commitment to clinical excellence and compliance.

She’s an absolute asset, and her dedication shines through in everything she does. And of course, the students admire her most for the genuine joy she shows when connecting with them through Girl Scouts and Lego Club.

In addition to these honors, one of the district staff members was also recognized as a 2025 Exemplary Secondary Educator. This year’s recipient is middle school teacher Kristen Smith.

Every other year, the NJ DOE recognizes outstanding educators throughout the state with the Exemplary Secondary Educator Award, officials said.

Through a rigorous selection process, the program identifies educators who are valued by their school and community and have exhibited strong knowledge and skills, an inspiring presence, and a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.

“We are fortunate to be the home of 17 Exemplary Educator Award winners here in Red Bank since 2016!” officials said.

Kristen Smith is a Grade 8 English Language Arts Teacher at Red Bank Middle School. She has been an integral member of Rocket Nation since 2019, and in her time here, she has consistently demonstrated the professionalism, innovation, and leadership that make her a model teacher. She has been instrumental in the development and refinement of our curriculum using the EL Education framework.

Her commitment to inclusive education is evident in her collaborative work with special education and ESL teachers, ensuring that all students, regardless of background or ability, are engaged and supported in their learning. Kristen is an active member of our AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) site team, fostering a college- and career-ready mindset in her students. What sets Kristen apart is her leadership beyond the classroom.

As a Grade Level Leader, she has helped shape team goals, support colleagues, and serve as a liaison between staff and administration. She leads with grace, empathy, and clarity — qualities that elevate the entire school community. Her past experience advising student groups and writing curricula in other districts shows the depth and breadth of her professional abilities.

Kristen is not only a strong educator but also a reflective practitioner who continues to grow through professional learning. She is trained in various technology platforms, is a Google Certified Educator Level 1 and brings a high level of organization and creativity to her planning and instruction.

Her calm demeanor, thoughtful communication, and unwavering dedication to student success make her a beloved teacher among students and a trusted colleague among staff.

“We are proud of our staff for so many reasons, but especially for striving to be the best in America so that we can rest assured we are the best for Red Bank,” district officials said. “Our educators exemplify that mindset by continuing to inspire our students to Dream BIG and then helping them get there.”

To learn more, you can visit the Red Bank Borough Public School District website.