From left, Ventnor Middle School Principal Rob Baker, retiring teacher Annette Peitzman, Superintendent Carmela Somershoe and Supervisor of Special Deducation Allison Ricciotti.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
VENTNOR – The Board of Education June 22 honored its Teachers of the Year and several staff members who retired this year. Superintendent and Elementary School Principal Carmela Somershoe, Middle School Principal Robert Baker and Supervisor of Special Education Allison Ricciotti recognized the employees of their respective departments.
Marion Damiani
The retiring staff members are “Aunt” Marion Damiani, who greeted visitors to the schools; secretary Vicki Cahill; nurse Jane-Ann Marrone, “a wealth of knowledge during the pandemic”; and teachers Mark Boothby, Linda Lee, Vickey Persiano and Annette Peitzman.
Vicki Cahill
All were described as being passionate about teaching, caring and compassionate, having high expectations of their students, and able to build strong relationships with them. All put children first, administrators said.
School nurse Jane-Ann Marrone
Also honored were Teachers of the Year, Theresa Kannish and Evan Shea. Both are special subject teachers, with Kannish teaching art, and Shea, band and music. Parents nominated Kannish for the award, and students nominated Shea. Both allow their students to be creative and express themselves in their work.
Teacher of the Year Theresa Kennish
“This is one of the best moments for a teacher and probably the worst for the school district to try to make up for all of that combined knowledge,” board President Doug Biagi said about the retirees. “We hope the next generation can fill your shoes. I thank you for your time with the Ventnor district. We were truly blessed.”
Teacher of the Year Evan Shea
The district also honored former Superintendent Eileen Johnson, who retired last year, by planting a tree and erecting a plaque in front of the school.
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