WESTWOOD REGIONAL SCHOOLS — Recognition took center stage at the Sept. 18 Westwood Regional Board of Education meeting, held at the high school’s Hurley Theater, as trustees honored an Eagle Scout, introduced two new student representatives, celebrated dozens of Advanced Placement Scholars, and applauded staff marking 25 years of service.
Derek Kaine, Eagle Scout
Westwood Regional High School senior Derek Kaine, of BSA Troop 321, was recognized for earning the rank of Eagle Scout, and for having created a wealth of community value in the process. Surrounded by his parents, Kathe and Joe, and a large contingent of scouts and families, Kaine accepted his certificate graciously and described his project — the Washington Township Community Garden at the Bethany Community Center.
The fenced, 16-bed garden expands on a Green Team initiative for seniors into a public space with plots available to rent each year. Harvests have already included sunflowers, pumpkins, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, strawberries, herbs, and even popcorn, with produce donated to Golden Seniors.
“This garden will be a place for everyone in Washington Township to come together,” Kaine told Pascack Press. “It’s important for me to contribute something lasting and beneficial to the town.” He said corn and sunflowers are visible from the road, and that local condo residents, who otherwise have no place to garden, are turning out in delighted numbers.
Kaine thanked fellow scouts, Troop 321 families, the Knights of Columbus, Kuiken Brothers, Fresh Grocer, StoneMill Gardens, and the Bethany Center for their support.
Student representatives introduced
The board welcomed Madilyn Goldman and Zachary Risbud, both Class of 2026, as the newest student representatives.
- Madilyn, a member of the field hockey and lacrosse teams, is active in the Cardinal’s Message Club, which promotes student-athlete mental health, and the Hillel Club, a space for Jewish students to connect. Passionate about science, she hopes to pursue a career in sports medicine. She said she is “very honored and excited” to represent her classmates.
- Zachary has a long record of community service, from donating his birthday gifts to charity to organizing food drives for the Tri-Boro Food Pantry and delivering meals to healthcare workers during the pandemic. He hopes to attend Georgetown University to study public policy and one day work in government “to continue helping those most in need.”
Board members praised both for their leadership and commitment to the school community.
AP Scholars and staff milestones
Dozens of high school students were named AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, or AP Scholar with Distinction by the College Board, recognized for high performance on multiple Advanced Placement exams. (A full list of honorees will appear in print.)
In addition, seven staff members were applauded for 25 years of service: Leslie Bisdale (Brookside aide), Paul Castellini (Middle School teacher/coach), Pamela Guenther-Duffus (High School art), Cathy Jenney (Washington School), Rita Keahon (Brookside), Theodora Patusco (Middle School), and Raymond Renshaw (Director of Special Services). Their names will be added to the district’s honor plaque.
‘Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal’
Superintendent Dr. Patrick McQueeney also introduced a new tradition: “Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal.” The program recognizes staff who are also alumni of the Westwood Regional School District — 59 at last count. Each will be honored at convocation with a small reception and keepsake, underscoring the pride of returning to serve the schools that helped shape them.
“This initiative is more than recognition,” McQueeney said. “It’s a reflection of the pride and loyalty that makes our district special, and a reminder that being a Cardinal is a lifelong connection.”