Educators Make “Lasting Impact”
Kenilworth Public Schools
Teachers and education support professionals who not only excel at their job, but also take extra measures to ensure staff, students and their families feel welcome is what makes a school a community.
Kenilworth School District recognized some of these devoted individuals at the Board of Education meeting on April 11.
“These educators have achieved synergy between their own teaching visions and the visions for teaching that are thrust upon them by others,” Kyle Arlington, Superintendent of Schools, said at the meeting. “Their beliefs align with their practices, and they have a strong and lasting impact on the children and young people of Kenilworth.”
The honorees include:
Kristine Parente – A kindergarten teacher with the district for 17 years, Parente received recognition as Harding Elementary School’s Teacher of Excellence. “I get to be surrounded with love every day,” says Parente on why she enjoys being a teacher. “I get to inspire kids as much as they inspire me.”
Jamie Rifkowitz – Rifkowitz took on the role of Kenilworth’s District Technology Facilitator in the fall of 2020, and is devoted to helping staff, students, and parents with all their technology concerns and interests. She was named Harding Elementary School’s Educational Service Professional of the Year for her hard work and dedication.
Jill Minarik – This is Minarik’s eighth year teaching English at Brearley High School. She is an advisor for the “Bears That Care” program and spends numerous hours arranging donations for community members in need. She received Teacher of Excellence recognition from Brearley High School. “My wish for every student I have is to live boldly,” she says. “To find their joy and hold on to it.”
Lorrae Schau – Schau has been with Brearley Middle-High School since 1990. She is a Special Education Teacher and currently teaches 8th, 10th, and 12th grade. Schau was named Teacher of Excellence at Brearley Middle School. “Witnessing students as they flourish on multiple levels is my favorite part about being a teacher.”
Jaime Lugo – Brearley’s Educational Service Professional of the Year honor belongs to Guidance Counselor Jaime Lugo, who has been with the district for eight years. Students describe him as kind, sympathetic and sincere, and Principal Jeremy Davies says he listens without judgment and advises with positivity.
Courtesy photo
