Special Education Teacher Making A Big Impact At Hooper Avenue Elementary School​

Toms River, New Jersey — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully, Toms River is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Sabato Agathangelou, who nominated Nicole Agathangelou of Hooper Avenue Elementary School.

What is the school hero’s name?

Nicole Agathangelou

Where does this school hero work?

Hooper Avenue Elementary School

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Teacher special education. She is my wife and know first hand what her commitment to her students — might as well say kids — she thinks of them as her own always saying how cute and how they make her happy. When she's there at work she puts multiple hours at home and evening preparing and coordinating with other members of school with best laid plans for the children education and district that does not reflect in unpaid time she puts forward willingly and happy to do.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

Wife

What should your community know about this person?

She does it to help the children move ahead and achieve goals beyond what they are set for and does it without looking for commendations or recognition just to make sure the program and school is at its best.

What three words best describe the school hero?

Unselfishness, Caring, Committed

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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