2023-24 Educator of the Year Awards

Frank has been a staple to the Bilingual/ESL department at Franklin School for 21 years. A teacher of ESL serving grades 3-6 at Franklin School, Geier received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Hunter College before earning a Master of Arts in Teaching in ESL at Fairleigh Dickenson University. Geir proudly holds a Juris Doctorate from Rutgers Law as well as a Bilingual/Spanish teacher certification.

What does being an educator mean to you?

The opportunity to shape young lives.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
I love the diversity of the student body and the cooperative attitude of my coworkers.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

I believe the Kearny School District prioritizes the needs of students.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I wanted to make a difference.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

To my amazing coworkers for their generosity and support.

Why did you become a teacher?

To make a difference in the lives of children.

Andrea Regan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, and both a Masters of Arts in Teaching and Supervisors Certificate from NJCU. She has been enriching the minds of young adults as a 6th Grade ELA teacher for the past 20 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

To me, being an educator means being a positive influence in the lives of my students.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
Having grown up here, I have a sense of connection to the kids of the community. Also, I get to work with the best team of educators around!

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

Getting to work with some of the most talented, creative, and caring people. It truly is a shared experience.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I had some of the most amazing teachers in Kearny. I still think about them and the impact they had on me. When I am looking to stay motivated, I remember their dedication and energy.

Michael Capaleo holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from Montclair State University, and is currently enrolled in Montclair State's Educational Leadership Program. He has been teaching 4th and 5th grade ELA at Garfield School for the past 9 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being a guide, mentor, motivator, and advocate who is passionately committed to unlocking each student's unique potential. It's about nurturing their growth, inspiring them to overcome challenges, and joyfully witnessing their personal and academic successes. This role goes beyond imparting knowledge—it's about deeply impacting lives and guiding students toward their dreams.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
I love being a Kearny teacher because it connects me to a community that's close to my heart. Growing up here, I was inspired by incredible teachers who left a lasting impact on me. Now, I cherish the opportunity to create similar meaningful experiences for my students. The diversity and enthusiasm in our classrooms make each day enriching, and working alongside colleagues, students, and families from my hometown deepens my commitment to nurturing our next generation with care and dedication. Every day, I’m grateful to give back to the community that shaped me.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

What I enjoy most about working in the Kearny School District is the sense of community and shared commitment to education. Being part of a district that values and supports both teachers and students alike creates a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I was inspired to become an educator by my mother, who saw the qualities of a teacher in me long before I did. Her belief in my potential and her encouragement to pursue a path in education shaped my career choice. Her support and insight ignited my passion to nurture and guide young minds, leading me to a fulfilling career in teaching.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my fiancée, Natalie, my parents, and my dog, Frida. Natalie has been an incredible source of support, providing me with space to express myself daily. My parents have offered endless love and encouragement throughout my journey. And Frida, with her consistent excitement to greet me after a hard day, always lifts my spirits!

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher largely due to the influence of my mother, who believed deeply in my potential to inspire and educate others. Her encouragement helped me see that I had the qualities necessary to make a positive impact on young lives. Growing up in Kearny and experiencing the dedication of my own teachers solidified my desire to give back to the community in the same meaningful way. Moreover, I cherish the relationships I build with my students and colleagues, and I truly look forward to coming to work every day. This joy and satisfaction confirm that I made the right decision in choosing my career path. Teaching allows me to guide, mentor, and witness the growth of my students, which is both a privilege and a profound source of fulfillment.

Rebecca "Becky" Lonnay earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications & Multimedia Production before moving on to NJCU where she received a Masters of Arts in Special Education. After working as a media specialist for a few local sports teams - the Giants, Jets, Nets, and Red Bulls to name a few - she settled into Garfield School, where she has been enthusiastically teaching ELA to 6th Graders for the past 12 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means taking on the important responsibility of guiding and shaping young minds. It means creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported. Being an educator is about making a difference in the lives of students and preparing them for success in the future.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
“It takes a village to raise a child.” I love this quote because not only is it true, but I love being part of the village for each of my students every year. I don’t just teach in Kearny - I live in Kearny, I participate in Kearny recreational sports and attend community events. I am lucky enough to live in town and support my students inside and outside of school while they participate in these events. I love being down at the Oval with my children and I hear my name being called from across the fields from current and previous students wanting to say hi. I think when students see that you live, work, and participate in local town events/sports, that increases their sense of pride and community. I love being here as much as they do! As a Kearny teacher, I get to work with a diverse group of students who bring unique perspectives and ideas to the classroom every day. I have a great sense of pride and fulfillment that comes from seeing my students succeed and grow academically in and outside of the classroom. Kearny Pride!

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

Working in the Kearny School District is rewarding because of the supportive community of staff members and students who foster a positive and inclusive environment. Additionally, the district provides ample professional development opportunities to help teachers grow and excel in their careers. The emphasis on collaboration and innovation allows educators to continuously improve their teaching practices, making every day fulfilling and meaningful.

What inspired you to become an educator?

Growing up my dream job wasn’t to be a teacher. My sister was the one that always wanted to be a teacher! After I graduated from college, I had various job opportunities, but my sister suggested that I start substitute teaching and so I did. It was life-changing. I realized very quickly that I loved working in a school environment and interacting with students. I quickly began pursuing my teaching degree and the rest is history.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my family members who always support, encourage, and motivate me. To my husband who continues to support and appreciate me in everything that I do. My parents, have shown me love and guidance throughout life's journey. To my children who symbolize the sacrifices made in hopes for a brighter future. My sister has shown me friendship and understanding, along with my nieces and brother-in-law who always inspire me to reach for my dreams.

Joanne O'Malley holds Bachelors Degrees in both Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Felician University, and a Masters of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from Caldwell University. A testament to Kearny Pride, O'Malley has served the district for 39 years: 5 years at KHS and 34 at Roosevelt!

What does being an educator mean to you?

I think being an educator means coaching, supporting, nurturing, and most importantly understanding the learning needs of each student.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
I was born and raised in Kearny and being a teacher in the town is a way to give back to a community that I love.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

My colleagues are the best part of working for the Kearny School District.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I was inspired by my grandmother who owned a nursery school in Kearny.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I would like to dedicate this award to all of the teachers and students that I have worked with throughout my career.

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher hoping that I could inspire students to follow their dreams.

Schuyler School's Jim Sickinger received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kean University, and after completing one year of teaching in North Arlington, he settled into the Kearny School District where he has been teaching Physical Education for an impressive 29 years. Equally impressive is his long list of contributions to the NJSIAA, namely:

All County Baseball for Kearny

All State Baseball For Kearny

Kearny High Hall of Fame Member

North Arlington Hall of Fame Member

NJSIAA Hall of Fame Member

What does being an educator mean to you?

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?

Having gone through the Kearny School system, I consider it an honor to give back to the students of this children of this community.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

Teaching in Kearny may provide you with a strong sense of belonging and connection to the community. Knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of students and contributing to the overall well-being of the community can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose to your work.

What inspired you to become an educator?

Educators often find fulfillment in work that feels meaningful and purposeful. They are inspired by the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of society by educating and empowering the next generation.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

My Mother and my Father who taught me work ethic and to never give up in any situation.

Why did you become a teacher?

I was inspired by the positive influence of teachers or mentors in my life. Their guidance and support may have motivated me to pursue a career in education to pay it forward.

Katia Lagos-Chasabenis has been integral to the Kearny School District, especially to the development of our young students. As a Kearny parent involved with the PTA and other special events, Lagos-Chasebenis joined the Kearny staff five years ago where she first served as a one-on-one aide, and now spends her days as a paraprofessional in the PreSchool Program.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being someone who is supportive, loving and present for students every day. It is being able to provide students with a safe and welcoming learning environment where they can grow and develop into the best version of themselves.

Why do you love being a Kearny paraprofessional?
Being a paraprofessional in Kearny has been a rewarding experience. Working with our youngest students, I get the privilege of watching them change and grow from their very first day and throughout their years at our school.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

I started out in the Kearny School District as a parent and was involved with PTA and other school related events from the time my children were in Pre-K. I always enjoyed working with the faculty and staff at Schuyler School. It has been a natural transition since I began working alongside everyone as a colleague and I couldn't be happier being a part of the Schuyler Family.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I would like to dedicate this award to my husband, George and our three beautiful children: Anastasia, Alexia and Vasili. My family has given me the confidence to pursue working with children and has inspired me to work as an educator. Their faith in me has always pushed me forward and their support has meant more than words can express.

Susana Peso graduated from NJCU with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Education before moving on to earn a Masters in Education in Literacy from American College of Education. She has been a devoted member of the Washington School faculty for the past 17 years, teaching 6th, 2nd, and most currently, 1st grade.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Teaching is a calling to empower, inspire, and lead; it is more than just a job. It involves cultivating a student's sense of growth, curiosity, and critical thinking. Teachers wear many hats - they're educators, mentors, counselors, administrators, mediators, advocates, innovators, lifelong learners, and community members. They balance various roles and responsibilities to create a positive learning environment for students. They foster a love of learning, establish safe spaces for discovery, and impart ideals that go beyond the classroom.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
Being able to teach in Kearny gives me a unique opportunity to give back to the community that has molded who I am. I can adapt my lessons to the unique interests of my students. Growing up in Kearny has given me the ability to use personal stories and local experiences to make learning more interesting and relatable. Teaching in my hometown also enables me to support the advancement of my community by fostering the leaders, intellectuals, and innovators of tomorrow who will shape it.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

One positive aspect of working in the Kearny School District is having the sense of community. Kearny is a close-knit town, and because of that it has given me many opportunities to form strong connections with colleagues, students, and families.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

This award is dedicated to my parents, who moved to this country from Portugal to give their children a better life. My parents' work ethic and dedication to their family has shaped me into the person I am today in both my career and family life.

Christine Von Cappeln earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Childhood Studies from Stockton University before going on to Seton Hall University, where she received her Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology. Further, Von Cappleln boasts a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) from the New Jersey Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and a New Jersey Speech-Language Specialist Certificate. She has worked as a Speech Language Pathologist with the Kearny School District for the past 6 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being a friend, an advocate, and making a difference. Building strong relationships with students and staff, while helping students find their voice and effectively communicate in the modality that best works for them.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
I love being a Kearny speech-language therapist because I get to work with the amazing staff and students at Washington School. I also am fortunate to have a great group of SLPs to work with district wide.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

I enjoy how KSD is a close-knit community, working toward the common goal of helping our students succeed.

Jackie Gallela is a graduate of Kean University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction in Science, Math, and Computer Education, and has 12 years of experience teaching Science in grades 6, 7, and 8.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means helping the students grow in and out of the classroom.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
I love being a Kearny teacher because of the wonderful community that has been created at LMS.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

I enjoy the support from my administration and colleagues. In my classroom I am able to add in memorable lessons that enhance the curriculum and outside of the classroom I have the support to help put together school wide activities.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my family for their unconditional love and support over the past 12 years. They always support the school events I participate in or the ideas I have for classroom lessons. Without them I wouldn't be the teacher I am today.

Why did you become a teacher?

I have a passion for teaching others about science in a way that is understandable for everyone.

Before joining the Kearny School District community, Lincoln Middle School ELA teacher Erika Kliszus attended the Julliard School Pre-College division for classical music, and then completed her first round of hospital rotations for an RN Nursing program. Our versatile Exemplary Educator of the Year pursued her passion for English Literature at Palm Beach University, earning her baccalaureate degree. Kliszus continued her post graduate studies at American University and the University of Colorado, completing coursework in Future Ready Fluencies and Digital Tools. Additionally, Erika boasts a Positive Educator Certification from the Flourishing Center and a Social Media Marketing Certification through the Hootsuite Academy. Erika is in her 14th year of teaching English Language arts to 7th and 8th graders.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator to me embodies a multitude of qualities: patience, kindness, diligence, humility, creativity, and passion. It requires a constant commitment to self-reflection and a willingness to evolve and adapt one's practices.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?

What I love about being a Kearny teacher is the richness of diversity among our students. Each student brings their unique background and experiences into the classroom.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

This is a district that cares, supports, and time and time again has given me opportunities for growth. Additionally, being part of the Kearny teaching family is truly special. It's more than just a workplace; it's a supportive community where the staff and administration genuinely care for one another.

What inspired you to become an educator?

My parents were my greatest inspiration to become an educator. Growing up, I witnessed their dedication to the field of education firsthand. Prior to becoming a certified teacher, I had the opportunity to work within my mother's district, even serving as her substitute on occasion. Stepping into her shoes and experiencing the joy of teaching was fulfilling and incredibly fun. Additionally, my father's passion for education has been a guiding force in my life. I've been fortunate to hear countless anecdotal stories from him about the transformative power of teaching and the profound importance of education. Their combined influence ignited my own passion for teaching and led me down the path to becoming an educator.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to Mr. Brack and Mr. Hempel with gratitude. They nominated me at LMS last Spring for this award. Their support and encouragement have been instrumental in my journey.

Why did you become a teacher?

I originally was inspired to become a language arts teacher because I was deeply inspired by my college experience. During my time in university, I had an extraordinary Shakespeare professor who ignited my passion for literature and learning. I vividly recall the engaging discussions we had in that class, and it left a lasting impression on me. I realized that being able to talk about literature every day, just like in that class, would be a dream come true.

Cristina Velez first earned an Associates degree Liberal Arts/Business from Hudson County Community College before moving on to Montclair State University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health. She has been teaching Health and Physical Education at KHS for 16 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Receiving this nomination is a tremendous honor, and I am genuinely thankful, considering the many exceptional teachers who make significant contributions to their classrooms and support students both inside and outside of school. I strive to give my best each day, and it's heartening to be recognized for making a positive impact in this school.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?
Being a teacher who lives in town allows me to make a direct impact on the lives of my students. Seeing them progress and succeed as adults is rewarding. There is satisfaction in knowing that I can make a difference in town by helping to educate the next generation.

What do you enjoy most about being employed with the Kearny School District?

Growing up in Kearny gives you a deep understanding of the population and its needs. Working in the school district allows you to give back to the community.

What inspired you to become an educator?

I always wanted to help people, especially teenagers, so that they can make healthy decisions for a happy future.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

Dedicated to all the hardworking teachers who go above and beyond to help their students succeed.