Why Middle Twp Schools Staff Members Are Being Celebrated

Eight Middle Township Public Schools teachers and educational services professionals have been recognized through the 2025-26 Governor’s Educator of the Year Program. 

The district nominated the staff members earlier in the school year, and the Board of Education acknowledged them at its meeting on December 11.

The honorees will also receive state award certificates from their County Office of Education.

“We congratulate our staff members for this well-deserved honor,” said Superintendent Stephanie DeRose. “Their passion, leadership and dedication to our students create a positive and wide-reaching impact.”

The statewide program recognizes educators who have gone above and beyond in contributing to an innovative and inviting learning environment.

The program is intended to recognize excellence, create a sense of pride, and bring public attention to the work of exceptional educators.

The nominated teachers are encouraged to apply for the County Teacher of the Year. Those who win at the county level can apply for the State Teacher of the Year.

The MTPS 2025-26 Governor’s Educator of the Year and Educational Services Professionals of the Year honorees are:

Kathy Wynn – Wynn is a Basic Skills and Reading Recovery teacher at Elementary #1 who also serves as the data specialist, building representative, and teaches at the MLK Homework Club. She co-chairs the School Wellness Committee, which organizes engaging activities that strengthen community and boost morale.

According to her nomination form, “Wynn is an exceptional instructor whose expertise and reflective nature ensure that her students receive the highest quality instruction. Wynn is a mentor to new teachers, collaborates with instructional teams, and helps train staff.”

Kelly Cox – A guidance counselor and HIB (Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying) specialist at Elementary #1, Cox chairs the Multicultural Night Committee, co-chairs the School Wellness Committee, and is a founding member of Panthers in Action, a nonprofit that partners with local businesses to support students.

She also teamed up with the Community Food Bank of New Jersey to prepare weekly food distributions for students through her Backpack Snack program. Cox’s nominator said, “She is highly respected by her colleagues and is committed to student wellness initiatives such as dental care and vision screenings.”

Nicole Maloney - A third-grade teacher at Middle Township Elementary #2, “Maloney creates a high level of rapport with her students while maintaining high standards in the classroom through assignments, management and expectations,” according to her nomination form. She shares her love of arts with students, particularly through her work with the drama club.

Celia Llaberia – An LDTC and former MTHS Spanish teacher and translator for more than 20 years, Llaberia is a liaison to Spanish-speaking members of the school community.

“Families trust her and staff rely on her, and Llaberia helps all with compassion and professionalism,” according to her nomination form. She continues to make a positive impact in her new role as part of the Child Study Team at Middle Township Elementary #2.

David Farrow – Farrow, a science teacher at Middle Township Middle School, has worked in the district for more than 30 years. “He is a well-respected, committed educator who inspires students to learn and provides a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

Farrow is always present and involved, making a lasting impact on everyone he works with,” his nominator said. Outside the classroom, he actively leads extracurricular activities, volunteers at school events, and supports local initiatives.

Monica DeRose – DeRose has been a guidance counselor at the Middle School for more than 20 years. She has been instrumental in guiding students through Middle School problems and has worked with all students to make Middle Township Middle School a safe and inviting place.

DeRose makes great connections with kids and is savvy in how she handles anything that comes her way.  In addition to managing her responsibilities as a guidance counselor, DeRose attends many after-school events, chairs the Intervention and Referral Services team, serves as a DJ at pep rallies, and is willing to step in and help at any time. She continues to be a valued member of the MTMS staff.

Lisa Taylor – Taylor is a social studies teacher at Middle Township High School. “Students clearly appreciate her teaching style, her motivation, and the depth of her knowledge in the classroom,” said Middle Township High School Principal Sharon Rementer. Taylor supports students outside of the classroom, too, and cheers them on at games and events throughout South Jersey.

Amy Adair – Adair is the athletic trainer at Middle Township Middle School and Middle Township High School. “She ensures the student-athletes are safe, supported, and cared for at all times,” said Rementer. “She is hardworking, intelligent, dedicated, and deeply committed to our school community.”

Cover Photo: MT Elem #1 - Middle Township Elementary #1 Educator of the Year Kathy Wynn (from left), Middle Township Elementary #1 Principal Christian Paskalides, Middle Township Elementary #1, Educational Services Professional of the Year Kelly Cox, and Middle Township Public Schools Superintendent Stephanie DeRose.

MT Elem #2 - Middle Township Elementary #2 Educator of the Year Nicole Maloney (from left), Middle Township Elementary #2 Principal Carrie Sinone, Middle Township Elementary #2, Educational Services Professional of the Year Celia Llaberia, and Middle Township Public Schools Superintendent Stephanie DeRose.

MTMS - Middle Township Public Schools Superintendent Stephanie DeRose (from left), Middle Township Middle School Educational Services Professional of the Year Monica DeRose, Middle Township Middle School Educator of the Year David Farrow, and Middle Township Middle School Principal Jeff Ortman.

MTHS - Middle Township Public Schools Superintendent Stephanie DeRose (from left), Middle Township High School Educator of the Year Lisa Taylor, Middle Township Middle School Educational Services Professional of the Year Amy Adair, and Middle Township High School Principal Sharon Rementer.