HILLSDALE, N.J.—Three Hillsdale teachers were honored as Teachers of the Year at the May 12 Board of Education meeting, recognized through the Bergen County Teacher and Educational Services Professionals Recognition Program.
Superintendent Robert Lombardy Jr. and the board congratulated honorees:
- Kathleen Eriksson, George G. White Middle School
- Fawn Kennedy, Meadowbrook School
- Jenna Santana, Ann Blanche Smith School
Each teacher was celebrated for her dedication to students, her leadership, and her impact on school culture.
‘The perfect reflection of Meadowbrook School’
Lombardy praised Fawn Kennedy as someone who embodies the values of her school and community.
“Her dedication and compassion as an advocate for her children and a positive partner made her an ideal parent for social activities and class parties,” he said. “To date, she was also the best grade-level coordinator of our Kindergarten Feast.”
Now as a teacher, he said, Kennedy brings the same energy and empathy to the classroom.
“She prepares activities and lessons that allow for individuality and creativity,” Lombardy said. “Her positive attitude is infectious, and her ability to deflect the little stressors we all face creates a cocoon for her students.”
He added, “Fawn comes to school each day with the same ambition and willingness to bring her best, regardless of whether it is the first or last day of the year. Congratulations, Mrs. Kennedy… We are all so proud to work with you.”
‘A safe, structured, and engaging environment’
Lombardy described Jenna Santana as a devoted special educator who gives her all to the youngest learners at Smith School.
“She tirelessly devotes herself to our youngest learners, nurturing both their academic growth and their emotional well-being with care,” he said. “Mrs. Santana provides a safe, structured, and engaging environment where every student receives precisely what they need to thrive.”
He noted her skill in meeting diverse student needs through a range of effective teaching strategies.
“Beyond her classroom, Mrs. Santana is a supportive colleague, regularly sharing her knowledge and expertise to benefit the greater school community,” Lombardy said. “She embodies the utmost professionalism, and her passion for her students and their success is evident in everything she does.”
‘An exceptional teacher and advisor’
Of George White’s Kathleen “Katie” Eriksson, Lombardy said, “It is with enthusiasm that we recognize Mrs. Eriksson, an exceptional fifth-grade science and special education teacher… Her unwavering dedication to her students shines brightly, manifesting in a consistently supportive, stimulating, and engaging learning environment where every child feels valued.”
He added, “Mrs. Eriksson doesn’t just meet responsibilities; she passionately exceeds them… tirelessly advocating for and adapting instruction to ensure each student, regardless of their needs, is equipped to thrive.”
Lombardy also recognized her role as student council advisor and her positive influence across the school.
“She is known for her empathy and the unique, empowering environment she creates within her classroom walls,” he said. “Her extraordinary passion and relentless effort have not just touched but transformed the lives of countless students.”
The honors are part of the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program, a statewide initiative administered locally by the Bergen County Office of Education. Each school district selects outstanding educators to be recognized at the county level, with the potential for further consideration at the state level. Not a competition among districts, the program highlights excellence in teaching and educational support services across New Jersey.