Educator of the Year - Mrs. Andrina Wizner
Mrs. Andrina Wizner, our talented Art Teacher, has been named Educator of the Year—a well-deserved recognition for a teacher whose creativity and dedication have left a lasting impact on both students and the school community.
Mrs. Wizner’s passion for teaching art shines through in every lesson she teaches. With her unique and engaging style, she creates an environment where students of all ages feel inspired to express themselves artistically. Her classes are a highlight of the week for many students, who look forward to exploring new techniques, learning about art history, and discovering the world of various artists and genres. The excitement her students feel about art is evident in the quality and creativity of their work, which consistently reflects the high expectations she sets.
Though she is at SWS just two days a week, Mrs. Wizner’s presence is felt every day. She goes beyond her classroom duties by taking on a range of community projects, decorating for school concerts, creating displays of student artwork, and supporting extracurricular events. She also collaborates with classroom teachers to incorporate art into other subjects, enhancing the students’ learning experience and showing her commitment to an integrated, hands-on approach to education. Her dedication to showcasing student art extends beyond the school walls; she spotlights their work at local art exhibits, giving students a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Colleagues and parents alike appreciate Mrs. Wizner's quiet, respectful manner and her ability to connect with each student. She provides a variety of strategies to help students of all abilities find success as artists, and her thoughtful approach makes every child feel valued and encouraged. She is a lifelong learner herself, attending workshops to continuously grow as an educator and bring new ideas back to her students.
The hallways of Sandyston Walpack are filled with the color and creativity that Mrs. Wizner fosters, and her role in the school community is invaluable. Congratulations to Mrs. Andrina Wizner on being named Educator of the Year!
Educational Services Provider of the Year - Mr. Joe Nicolaro
Mr. Joe Nicolaro has been named Educational Services Provider of the Year at Sandyston Walpack School! A beloved school counselor, Mr. Nicolaro embodies dedication, compassion, and joy, impacting not only the lives of students but also providing invaluable support to the staff and school community.
Mr. Nicolaro’s commitment to the students at SWS is evident in the countless ways he supports their emotional and social growth. From conducting engaging SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) and Character Education classes to providing one-on-one support, he is there whenever a child needs a listening ear or a comforting presence. With methods that range from role-playing and games to his beloved music sessions, Mr. Nicolaro creates a safe, joyful environment that allows each child to feel seen, understood, and valued. His creativity and warmth foster trust and inspire confidence in students, who always look forward to their time with him.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Nicolaro’s impact resonates throughout the SWS community. He assists in community service initiatives, such as distributing the Weekend Bags and Holiday Food Baskets, always stepping in wherever he is needed. Colleagues and parents alike appreciate his positivity and unwavering support. A parent shared how Mr. Nicolaro went above and beyond to help her daughter navigate big emotions, giving her the confidence and comfort she needed during challenging times. His encouragement and guidance even helped her shine in the school’s talent show—an experience that left a lasting mark on her self-esteem. For many students, the talent show that Mr. Nicolaro advised and directed will be a core memory of teamwork, confidence, community belonging, and sheer joy in a school function. His encouragement and guidance even helped students shine on stage, leaving lasting marks on their self-esteem and creating memories that will carry forward throughout their school years and beyond.
Colleagues admire his patience, his “bag of tricks,” and his ability to respond instantly to any classroom need. He’s built strong connections with students of all ages, making him an integral part of the SWS family. “He brings so much joy to our school on a daily basis,” a colleague shared, noting that his presence has become essential to the school’s spirit and functioning.
Mr. Nicolaro's impact on students’ lives, his dedication to building strong relationships, and his unwavering support for both students and staff make him an outstanding choice for Educational Services Provider of the Year.
It's that time of year again. If anyone is in need of extra help for the holidays, please let Mrs Misyak know, if you haven't done so already. All calls are kept confidential.
There will be Holiday Food Baskets, from Sparta Community Food Pantry with complete meal fixings delivered to our school on Dec 17th, time TBD. If you would like to be included, please let me know your choice of Turkey, Chicken or Lasagna- vegetarian or meat lasagna. Also the ages and sex of the child/children. I need to register for this by the end of November.
Sandyston Has Heart- If you need any help in the form of gift cards this Holiday season, please let Mrs Misyak know by phone 973-948-3263 or email smisyak@sandystonwalpack.org and you will be added to a confidential Sandyston Has Heart list.
Toys for Tots program again this year at the Salt and Light Community Church in Montague. Here is the signup link for any families who would like to register their school age child for this.
https://www.saltandlighttogether.com/toysfortots
Project Self Sufficiency Season of Hope Toy Shop will provide new, unwrapped holiday gifts to any Sussex or Warren County family in need. Parents may only shop by appointment and must pre register to receive an appointment. Families must register in advance to receive toys. Please call, 973-940-3500.
Here is a website link:
https://www.projectselfsufficiency.org/holiday-toy-drive-sussex-warren-nj
