Melissa Lavell - Teacher of the Year
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Middle School English (Montclair State University)
Masters Degree in Special Education (Montclair State University)
14 years in education (all in Hillsborough Township Public Schools)
Mrs. Lavell was an instructional assistant at Amsterdam and Triangle Elementary schools while obtaining her Masters degree. She has been a special education teacher at Auten Road for the last 12 years.
Extracurriculars at ARIS: Coach for iRUN running club, Character Education Committee Member, CERT Team Member (AED/CPR Certified), District Class Dojo Mentor, Fall Fest Committee Member, I&RS Team Member, School Leadership Team Member, Social Events Committee Chair for HEA, Ski and Snowboard Club Advisor, Talent Show Advisor/Host, Yoga Club Advisor, New Teacher Mentor
Favorite Educational Quote: "Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be." - Rita Pierson
Advice for new teachers: Never be afraid to ask questions or for help, spend time making connections with both your students and your colleagues, and don't forget to take time for yourself!
Kaitlin Esposito - Educational Services Professional of the Year
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & English (Rutgers University)
Master's Degree in Social Work (Rutgers University)
13 years in education. Started at HES, then worked at ARIS for several years, and now works at both ARIS and HMS.
Mrs. Esposito is a licensed social worker in the state of NJ. In September 2024, she provided training to Robert Wood Johnson/UMDNJ pediatric and adolescent psychiatrists on school-based services for students with mental health disorders.
Extracurriculars at ARIS: Hosted a parent support groups for students with behavioral and emotional disabilities (at HES), served on the School Safety & Climate Team at ARIS, member of the Crisis Management Team at ARIS, anti-bullying specialist at ARIS, served on the Superintendent’s Focus Group with Mr. Volpe.
Favorite Educational Quote: "Be the person you needed when you were younger" - Ayesha Siddiqi
Advice for new social workers: Lead with what feels right and be confident that you bring your own, important, perspective to a team.