Eatontown District Honors Its Monmouth County Superintendents’ Teacher Recognition Candidates

This past Monday evening was a very special night at the meeting of the Eatontown School Board when the district’s Monmouth County Superintendents’ Teacher Recognition Candidates were announced from each of the district’s four schools.  They are:

Linda McNelis of Memorial Middle School who is a special education teacher focusing on science.  Memorial School Principal Ron Danielson described Ms. McNeilis as being a “great science teacher with a true passion for her subject area.”

Michele Calabrese of Meadowbrook School teaches music to grades PK-6.   School Principal Valerie Cioffi noted that Ms. Calabrese “inspires students in Meadowbrook School to appreciate music.”  She also noted Ms. Calabrese is incorporating a slideshow on Superstorm Sandy into the winter concert at the school.

Jill Britton is a 5th grade teacher at Woodmere School.  In addition, she chairs the Yearbook Club and serves on the Principal’s Advisory Committee.  In describing Ms. Britton, Woodmere’s Principal Kim Muir said she “has a love for teaching and children that is immeasurable and that she is very reflective and always looking to improve as an educator.”

Brooke Mindnich is a ELL (English Language Learner) teacher at Vetter School. She also runs the After- School Family Literacy Program which includes teaching English language classes in the evening to parents of students in the District so that they may be better able to assist their children with their school work.  Vetter School Principal Kevin Iozzi noted that "Ms. Mindnich exhibits understanding, sensitivity, compassion and support for her students."

Superintendent Scott McCue commented that “Each candidate is well-deserving of this honor.  Teaching is a noble and honorable profession.  It is important to take time to recognize the outstanding talents and efforts our teachers and educational professionals demonstrate in their work with students each and every day.” Mr. McCue went on to say, “Although I clearly believe the use of data and the “science of education” has its place and importance in education, I also contend that education is an art as well. The candidates honored here tonight possess the unique ability to balance the science and the art of education in order to benefit student learning.”

The selection committee, which  included Administrators, a School Board member, parents, and former Teachers of  the Year reviewed nominations and chose the finalists.