Toms River Bus Aide Makes School Days Safer And Sweeter

Toms River, NJ — 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 Anne-Marie & Ross Drake, who nominated Lorraine Martz of Toms River Regional Schools.

What is the school hero’s name?

Lorraine Martz

Where does this school hero work?

Toms River Regional Schools

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

Miss Lorraine is a one-of-a-kind bus aide who has supported my daughter (Francesca), who attends an out-of-district school for children with autism. It is difficult to even put into words how much she goes above and beyond to make my daughter, as well as my husband and me, feel safe, loved and comfortable. Lorraine is so kind and patient and treats my daughter with the utmost respect and dignity. Each morning, she greets my daughter with a huge smile and encouragement to get on the bus and, although my daughter is nonverbal, she speaks to her with presumed competence as she appreciates that, although my daughter cannot verbalize, she understands what is being said to her. Most parents of special needs children share the same fear of how their child is being treated when they are not around, as their child cannot communicate. To not have to worry about that each day when we send our daughter off to school on the bus is an indescribable feeling! To further demonstrate her thoughtfulness, last year Miss Lorraine decorated and celebrated the birthdays for each student on the bus. When you have a child who doesn't have birthday parties because they do not have friends and do not get invited to birthday parties, this is so special and meaningful. The bus is where my daughter’s school day starts and ends, so knowing that she is safe and protected is what makes Miss Lorraine a hero!

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

Bus aide for my daughter

What three words best describe the school hero?

Loving, dedicated, thoughtful

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.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.