SSOTM April-May 2024
Congratulations!
Each month, Manville School District staff recognizes outstanding performance by students and staff in each building. Enthusiasm, determination, work ethic and benevolence are taken into consideration. Those who exemplify these qualities are awarded for their efforts with Student or Staff of the Month. Every month, these individuals are recognized at our board meetings. Please join our community in congratulating our wonderful Students & Staff of the Month for the months of April and May!
☔ APRIL ☔
Weston
Lucas Fonseca-Mena
Grade: Pre-K
Lucas is a friendly and helpful student in our classroom. He follows directions and is always looking to assist others. Lucas can always be counted on to do the right thing. He excels at cleaning up and keeping our classroom neat and tidy. It is truly a pleasure having Lucas in our class!
3 Fun Facts about Lucas:
Favorite Food- Cereal
Favorite Color- Red
Favorite Book- Paw Patrol Ready,Race, Rescue!
My Favorite thing about my school is… playing in centers.
Madison McCarthy
Grade: Kindergarten
Maddy is a very thoughtful and kind friend. She is very dedicated to her school work and works hard in everything she does. She is a fantastic role model to her peers when it comes to social skills such as sharing and patience. We are so lucky to have her in our class!
3 Fun Facts about Madison:
My favorite food is candy!
My favorite color is pink.
My favorite animal is a cat.
My Favorite thing about my school is… being able to play with my friends!
Tanner Barton
Grade: 1
Tanner is an extraordinary student who never fails to try his hardest! He comes to school with a smile and treats his peers with an immense amount of love and respect. Tanner is a trustworthy student and classmate, always choosing the right thing and helping others. He is reliable, hardworking, and honest. Our classroom wouldn’t be the same without Tanner!
3 Fun Facts about Tanner:
I love to play Minecraft
I have a stuffed dragon named Melon
My favorite food is ice cream
My favorite thing about my school is... when I get to learn about science! I love coming up with science questions and watching our Mystery Science videos that answer them!
Kasir Boyd - Caldwell
Grade: 2
Kasir is not only April's student of the month for trustworthiness, but he consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for learning. In our class, he actively engages in discussions, asks thoughtful questions, and always goes above and beyond in his assignments. His leadership and compassion for helping others is truly impressive.
3 Fun Facts about Kasir:
Football is his favorite sport
Likes to play his XBox
Is a creative writer
My Favorite thing about my school is… playing with all my friends at recess.
Jennifer Rutledge
Staff of the Month
Jenn Rutledge is a committed educator with deep roots in the Manville School District, having attended preschool through her senior year. She completed her student teaching within the same district, demonstrating a strong connection to the community. Jenn furthered her education at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) and Rutgers University, equipping her with a robust academic background. Currently, she applies her expertise as a special education teacher at Weston Elementary School and serves as the Inclusion Director at Camp Ruach. Additionally, she is a proud mother of two.
Notable Accomplishments:
Jenn Rutledge is a dedicated special education teacher at Weston Elementary School. She balances her professional commitments with her role as a mother of two. In addition to her work at the school, Jenn serves as the Inclusion Director at Camp Ruach, where she ensures that all camp activities are accessible and inclusive for children with diverse needs. Her experience and passion for inclusive education are evident in both her teaching and her leadership at the camp.
Years in District: 18
Roosevelt
Ady Lopez
Grade: 3
Ady is such a hard worker! She also constantly demonstrates Roosevelt Road's traits of being caring, respectful, fair, trustworthy, and a good citizen by helping classmates and teachers without being asked to do so. She reminds others to do the right thing, focuses on her school work, shows responsibility by asking for help when needed, and always does her best. Ady is a wonderful part of our classroom community!
3 Fun Facts about Ady:
I love to draw
I love to cook
I love to clean and help my mom
My Favorite thing about my school is… my teachers! I like that we all get a chance to win different awards!
Loni Fasoli
Grade: 4
Loni has shown a great deal of resilience this school year! She is a positive student and learner! Loni has a contagious smile and is very respectful. She is such a pleasure to have in class. Loni continues to work hard in everything she does!
3 Fun Facts about Loni:
I like to play volleyball
I love to hang out with my friends after school
I love to play with my dog, Chevy!
My Favorite thing about my school is... that I get to hang out with my friends. I love recess because we can play different sports and activities!
Rachel Stoddard
Staff of the Month
Ms. Stoddard began her career in Manville back in January of 2018 as an instructional assistant. She takes the time to build a strong rapport with each of her students and enjoys making learning fun as well as engaging. Being a lifelong learner herself, Ms. Stoddard has enrolled in programs over the summer to keep up to date with best teaching practices and continues to ensure her students feel comfortable, loved, and supported. When she is not teaching, you can find her playing video games, reading, writing, or instructing swim lessons to family and friends. Ms. Stoddard is very excited to be planning her wedding which will occur in August of 2024.
It is said teaching is an art from the heart. Many of us have that one teacher that touched our hearts forever. Ms. Stoddard has been such an amazing, wonderful, and Supportive teacher. Her students and their families can’t say enough good things about her. She goes above and beyond for her children, with her ability to teach with a warm smile and ready-to-help attitude. We are lucky to have her!!!
Notable Accomplishments
She has been the advisor for Roosevelt's ELA and Math club for 2 years Ms. Stoddard also takes whatever comes her way with ease and flexibility to best support all her coworkers.
Staff Member of the Month - April 2024
Position: 4th Grade Teacher
Years in District: 4
ABIS
Johan Guillen
Grade: 5
Johan works extremely hard and is a pleasure to have in class. He stays focused, participates everyday, and assists others when they need it. You can always count on Johan to have a smile on his face and be ready to learn.
3 Fun Facts about Johan:
I love to play Roblox.
I like to talk to my friends.
I love math and geography.
My Favorite thing about my school is... getting to see my friends.
Kelly Flynn
Grade: 6
All of the 6th grade teachers love having Kelly in our classes. With her positive attitude and dedication to learning, Kelly is an excellent role model for her peers. Kelly always participates in whatever activities the class is engaged in and can work well with anyone. In the 3rd marking period, Kelly received an A in all of her classes, showing how strongly committed she is to learning regardless of subject.
3 Fun Facts about Kelly:
I am very caring.
I love all animals.
I have a twin.
My Favorite thing about my school is... seeing my friends and having a good time learning with them.
Alexa Aguilera
Grade: 7
Alexa has been doing a really great job as a student leader in the 7th grade. Alexa is currently a member of the softball team. She has been doing a great job of maintaining her grades in classes managing to maintain her high standards she has set for herself. Alexa continues to show herself as a great leader in class often acting as a leader in group work scenarios making sure her fellow students are on task. Alexa always manages to brighten up any class she is in, bringing a fun and positive vibe and always showing respect to her teachers and fellow classmates.
3 Fun Facts about Alexa:
I enjoy listening to music.
Social Studies is my favorite subject.
I enjoy doing my nails and making slime.
My Favorite thing about my school is... getting an opportunity to learn and be surrounded by my friends.
Osmeylin Santamaria Urena
Grade: 8
Osmeylin is an exceptional 8th grade student who embodies the qualities of a well-rounded and dedicated individual. She is a talented member of our band, & she's also a valuable member of our stage crew during school plays, including the recent production of Footloose. She demonstrates her passion for the arts and her commitment to contributing to the school community. Osmeylin's involvement in extracurricular activities is balanced by her impressive academic achievement, consistently earning a spot on the honor roll. Her teachers and peers recognize her as a polite, well-mannered, and diligent student who always strives for improvement. Osmeylin's positive attitude, strong work ethic, and kind demeanor make her a wonderful young lady and a deserving recipient of the Student of the Month.
3 Fun Facts about Osmeylin:
I have a cat and a dog.
I’ve played soccer and softball.
I’ve danced ballet before
My Favorite thing about my school is... my friends and playing in the band.
Angelise Esposito
Staff of the Month
Angelise Esposito immersed herself in art early in life, attending enriched art programs since childhood. She spent almost every summer of her high school career in different states studying fine arts at various universities until she committed to her home state of New Jersey at Rutgers. She majored in visual arts and design and began substitute teaching at local public schools, where she discovered her love for education. After graduation, she decided to pursue a career as a teacher and started as a support teacher at a charter school. Upon receiving her teaching certification, she was promoted to be the art teacher at the school’s New Brunswick location. This teaching experience along with a lifelong passion for the arts led to her career at Manville, where she enjoys beautifying the school with student artwork and getting involved with the local arts community.
Notable Accomplishments
This teacher has a welcoming personality and truly cares about the success of all of her students. She has absolutely transformed her department here at ABIS. Her interaction with students and engaging activities provide them with the opportunity to express themselves creatively and imaginatively. Students who may struggle in other subjects shine fully in a creative setting and produce works they should be extremely proud of. In addition, she has shared her time and talents around the building and other activities, such as the drama production. The artwork around the building, and the art our students are producing are such a welcome breath of fresh air. Ms. Angelise Esposito has quickly found a home here at ABIS, bringing our community together through both her and her students’ art.
Years in District: 1
MHS
D’Angelo Gomez
Student of the Month
There was an emergency situation that occurred in a classroom at the high school, D’Angelo jumped into action prior to administration and the nurse arriving and got everyone in a safe area and assisted the student until the nurse arrived.
3 Fun Facts about D'Angelo:
I’m a leo.
I’m one of five children in my family.
I enjoy following day trading.
My Favorite thing about my school is… The faculty and how welcoming they are to me each day.
Lucas Velando
Athlete of the Month
Lucas had a fantastic senior winter season for the Mustangs Wrestling Program. He is the epitome of a student-athlete, as well as one of the best examples you could ask for our program ethos, because he is truly #BadCompany. Lucas finished the season with a 27-11 record and achieved his goal of reaching the State Tournament in Atlantic City. Individually, Lucas finished 2nd at the Walter Woods Holiday Tournament, 2nd in Somerset County, 2nd in District 17, and 3rd in Region 5 at 175 lbs, which qualified him for the state tournament. He was 2nd on the Mustangs in wins, pins and takedowns, and recorded the fastest pin of the season at 0:06. For his career, Lucas finished his career as one of the more accomplished Mustangs in recent memory, exiting with a 77-26 record, as well as being a 3x Region and 1x State Qualifier.
3 Fun Facts about Lucas:
I can run a lap around the track under a minute.
I can snap really loud.
I have a goofy laugh.
My Favorite thing about my school is… the feeling of being wanted to succeed by your peers, teachers, and coaches.
Leticia Jankowski
Staff of the Month
Mrs. Jankowski is a Spanish teacher at Manville High School for 9-12 grade students. She primarily teachers Heritage Spanish A & B and AP Language and Culture. With her International Club/Spanish Honor Society students, Mrs. Jankowski hosts various events and collection drives to give back to the Manville community. Every year since starting at MHS, Mrs. Jankowski organizes “Bring your Child to Work Day.” In collaboration with all of the staff and students, she oversees that the children are engaged in fun activities, enjoy yummy treats and have something to take home to remind them of their day. Mrs. Jankowski is often sought out by fellow native speaking students due to her friendly and empathetic nature. Students seek out Mrs. Jankowski for guidance and her “motherly” nature of having more than just her two kids as part of her life. She is always bringing in fun activities and snacks for the students to enjoy and learn to appreciate and understand the Spanish culture.
Notable Accomplishments
Department Leader of World Languages Department, 2023-Present
Advisor of International Club, 2018-Present
Advisor of Spanish Honor Society, 2021-Present
District Translator, 2018-Present
Position: Spanish Teacher
Years in District: 6
🌸 MAY 🌸
Weston
Emmanuel Carvajal Salazar
Grade: Pre-K
Emmanuel is very kind and always helps his friends. He listens well to others, shares, and makes sure everyone feels included. This makes Emmanuel a great example to his classmates!
3 Fun Facts about Emmanuel:
Loves to play with his sister
Loves ice cream
Loves hugs from his dog Mya
My Favorite thing about my school is… playing with my friends.
Jovanna Rojas-Maldonado
Grade: Kindergarten
Jovanna lights up our classroom daily. She gets so happy about the things we do and learn. Her smile and laugh are contagious. She is a role model and hard worker. I am so proud of her Kindergarten year progress.
3 Fun Facts about Jovanna:
Jovanna lost 4 teeth!
Jovanna likes to play with her tablet!
Jovanna likes to play with her friends!
My Favorite thing about my school is… learning new stuff and playing.
Sierra Rose Regal
Grade: 1
Sierra is an active participant in Weston School and is involved in after school activities. She helps protect the environment as a member of the Earth Watchers club. She works hard to make Manville and Weston School better in and out of the classroom.
3 Fun Facts about Sierra:
“I love animals and I love to play with my dog”
“I do karate, dance and play basketball.”
Sierra is a member of Earth Watchers.
My Favorite thing about my school is… Playing outside at recess with my friends.
Jason Morris
Grade: 2
Jason was recognized as student of the month for May. Jason was recognized for displaying school leadership. Jason is an active volunteer in school and at home. He is cooperative, kind, and full of school spirit.
3 Fun Facts about Jason:
Jason has a youtube channel
Jason loves math and learning new things
Jason has a cat named Rya
My favorite thing about my school is… hugging my teachers, math, and fundations!
Emme Vornlocker
Staff of the Month
As a first-year teacher in a self-contained preschool classroom for students with disabilities, I have found immense joy and fulfillment in working with each and every one of my students. The unique challenges and rewards of this environment have deepened my passion for teaching and my commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive learning space. Every day, I am inspired by the resilience and progress of my students as they overcome obstacles and achieve their personal milestones. Witnessing their growth, whether it's mastering a new skill, improving communication, or developing social interactions, brings me an incredible sense of pride and satisfaction. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and enriching classroom where each child can thrive and reach their fullest potential.
Notable Accomplishments:
This year, my students have achieved remarkable progress both academically and socially. They have consistently exceeded expectations, mastering complex concepts and developing crucial skills that will serve them well in the future. Their enthusiasm for learning and their ability to collaborate and support one another have been truly inspiring. Watching them grow and evolve has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. I am incredibly proud of their accomplishments and am excited to continue supporting them as they navigate their educational journey, helping them reach new heights and achieve their full potential.
Position: Preschool Special Education
Years in District: 1Roosevelt
Arayah Montgomery
Grade: 3
Arayah consistently exemplifies kindness and curiosity in all she does. She follows directions attentively and always puts forth her best effort. Arayah's thoughtfulness towards others is truly remarkable; she consistently shows respect to both her peers and the staff. Arayah has progressed exceptionally well, demonstrating significant growth as a student. Her wonderful attitude and considerate nature make her a standout student.
3 Fun Facts about Arayah:
I love my brothers, but sometimes I dislike them
I love to cheerlead
I love to play basketball
My Favorite thing about my school is… that everyone is kind, friendly, and fun to be with! There are a lot of people here with whom I can be friends.
Kayla Kohler
Grade: 4
Kayla has demonstrated remarkable growth both as a student and as an individual, consistently embodying the principles of the Roosevelt Road. She follows directions with precision and works diligently on every task. Kayla's kindness and helpful nature shine brightly in our classroom; she goes out of her way to assist her peers and teachers without even being asked. Her independence and dedication set a wonderful example for everyone around her. Congratulations, Kayla, on this well-deserved honor! We are so proud of you!
3 Fun Facts about Kayla:
I am flexible and very good at gymnastics!
I love to ride horses!
My family owns chickens!
Kristel Gallagher
Staff of the Month
Ms. Gallagher is an exceptional teacher who demonstrates immense patience and understanding towards her students and colleagues. She consistently offers a helping hand and checks in to ensure everyone is doing well. Ms. Gallagher goes above and beyond for her students. She has proactively created a social story to help a student navigate a situation in a positive and inclusive manner.
Her outstanding communication with parents is invaluable, particularly in managing the needs of a special needs population. Her dedication, compassion, and proactive approach make her a truly remarkable educator. We deeply appreciate all that you do! Ms. Gallagher on her free time likes to spend time with my family and friends! She also works Mendham Day Camp as a Director. She loves spending time with her dog, Drake, and is fascinated by Disney!
Notable Accomplishments
Active member of NJPBSIS
Staff Member of the Month - May 2024
Position: Special Education Teacher
Years in District: 5
ABIS
Rian McCaffrey
Grade: 5
Rian is an enthusiastic and hard working student. He quickly acclimated to ABIS as a new student in the fall and has made many friends along the way. Rian consistently puts his best effort into his work and enjoys participating in class discussions. His classmates can always count on him to put a smile on their faces with his positive attitude and friendly demeanor. Rian's teachers describe him as a joy to have in class.
3 Fun Facts about Rian:
My favorite place to vacation is Kalahari Resorts.
I attended the Bangor Area School District for 5 years.
My favorite food is cheeseburgers.
My Favorite thing about my school is... Math.
Febee Herskovitz
Grade: 6
Febee is an excellent role model in 6th grade. She always puts her best effort into everything she does, and uses her creativity to go above and beyond. She is a leader in class discussions, contributing interesting insights, as well as wit and humor to the topics being discussed. Outside of the classroom, Febee is very involved in several extra curricular activities. She is truly a star inside and outside the classroom.
3 Fun Facts about Febee:
Febee is a member of chorale.
Febee has lived in Manville all her life.
Febee has been playing trumpet since 3rd grade.
My Favorite thing about my school is... I love it all. ABIS is a great place to be!
Julianna Vidal Mendez
Grade: 7
Julianna is a hard working student. She always comes in with a respectful attitude and is really great at working with other students. She is an amazing student who has set herself to a high standard with her grades maintaining averages of As and Bs. She is a delight to have in class.
3 Fun Facts about Julianna:
Favorite animals are bunnies.
I want to learn how to crochet.
I like pianos.
My Favorite thing about my school is… Social studies class!
Matthew Gorbatuk
Grade: 8
Congratulations to Matthew "Matty" Gorbatuk, our well-deserving Student of the Month! Matty is an exceptional student who excels both in the classroom and on the wrestling mat. His dedication to his studies is evident through his participation in accelerated language arts and algebra classes, where he consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. Matty's enthusiasm extends beyond academics, as he is an incredible athlete with a deep love for wrestling. His commitment to the sport and his team is truly admirable. Matty's active participation in class discussions and his willingness to help others make him a role model for his peers. We are proud to recognize Matty as our Student of the Month and look forward to seeing his continued success in all his endeavors.
3 Fun Facts about Matthew:
I am a member of the Junior National Honor Society.
I am in Honors Language Arts and Accelerated Mathematics.
144 New Jersey National Freestyle, Greco Roman Team Member.
My Favorite thing about my school is… Mr. Magliacano, my teachers and friends. Also, playing kickball with my friends.
Lisbeth Cintron
Staff of the Month
Miss Liz was born and raised in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. While living on the island, she worked in many different fields. She assisted in the sales of cars, and worked on the side as a pastry chef, which she still does today. In addition to this, she was an established model featured on billboards. Miss Liz made the move to the United States in 2004. She has three children, one of whom is a current junior at Somerset County Vo-Tech, and two grandchildren. Her passion from kids stemmed from caring for her grandson who has autism. Miss Liz learned that the patience, empathy, creativity, and communication skills she used with her grandson can also benefit students in school. Soon after, she began working at Woodbrook Elementary School in Edison, New Jersey. Her efforts of going above and beyond for students did not go unnoticed as she was quickly offered a position in support staff within the district. Miss Liz moved to Manville in 2021 and started working here as a hall monitor. In Manville, she quickly became a student-favorite and exemplifies, “Every Child, Every Day”, in all of her interactions with students and staff.
Years in District: 2
MHS
Adriel Esteves
Student of the Month
Adriel excels in his academics and it is not just his grade he cares about. Adriel demonstrates intellectual curiosity and goes above and beyond to satisfy his curiosity. His diligence and his desire to learn is evident in every assignment he completes. Adriel is a credit to MHS and the Class of 2024.
3 Fun Facts about Adriel:
I enjoy studying/researching about math, space and physics.
I enjoy tampering around with computers (either taking them apart or building/upgrading them).
I enjoy playing video games.
My Favorite thing about my school is… its incredible teachers that genuinely teach their students well.
Haisha Lasluiza
Athlete of the Month
Haisha Lasluiza is one of the hardest working and dedicated athletes at MHS. She is a three time group qualifier in the 400 meter, an event she also holds the school record in with a time of 60.3. She recently placed 4th in the 400 at the Somerset County Championships,and led the 4x400 to a 3rd place finish. This time, along with the 400 school record time are currently top in the Group 1 Central Jersey Section. Haisha is a leader on and off the track whose success is only just beginning.
3 Fun Facts about Haisha:
I love going to the beach and spending time with my family.
One sport I like playing in my free time is tennis or soccer with my friends.
At skyland conference I became the first girl in manville track history to ever run under a minute.
My Favorite thing about my school is… is the close and tight bond everyone has with each other. It's not like every other BIG school where not everyone knows each other. The positivity in this school really carries Manville to be the best and to have my love for attending manville high school.
Adam Fitting
Staff of the Month
Mr. Fitting has had diverse and successful career experiences as a senior executive with Apple Inc. and Tesla Inc. He is an FAA Certified Flight Instructor and commercial pilot.
He holds a BA Hons in Social Sciences from Thomas Edison State University and certificates in design thinking and systems thinking from Cornell, IDEO U., and the University of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Fitting is a veteran of the US Air Force and a Captain in the Civil Air Patrol.
Notable Accomplishments
Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society
Apple University Associate
Civil Air Patrol Achievement Award
Civil Air Patrol Crisis Service Award
NJ BOE Environmental Club Award
Position: Aviation and Robotics
Years in District: 1