By Matt Nelson, Special Writer
HIGHTSTOWN — At Mondays’s Board of Education meeting, Susan Lloyd, a former member, was recognized for 10 years of service to East Windsor Regional School District.
Ms. Lloyd served on the Board of Education from April 29, 2002, to June 30, 2012.
Ms. Lloyd said, “It’s been an amazing 10 years. I never thought I would make it this long and I’m proud of what the district has become and the changes that we’ve made — all in doing it for the students. And that’s the most important thing.”
”I had a chance to work with Susan and she was a very diligent board member and although my time on the Board (pales) in comparison to the amount of time she’s worked here, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with her,” said Edward Forsthoffer III, superintendent.
Board President Robert Laverty said, “I’ve served my time with Ms. Lloyd throughout some of the most tumultuous years I’m sure this district has ever seen. She was there through contract negotiations and some of the incredibly difficult efforts it took to make this district into what it is today.”
Seven teachers were also recognized for their 25 years of teaching within East Windsor Regional School District. Among the teachers that were in attendance were Mary Christensen and Mary Ann Wherley from the Grace N. Rogers Elementary School.
Gayle Parker, principal of the Rogers School, stated, “Varied administrators say that Mrs. Christensen created a safe, caring, inclusive and intellectually engaging child-centered environment. It is an honor to work with a professional who is passionate about education and dedicated to the needs of both the students and their families.”
Principal Parker was also able to speak about Ms. Wherley.
”Ms. Wherley always gives her best efforts to meet both the academic and social and emotional needs of her students. She is consistently noted by all administrators who have been privileged to work with her as dedicated, enthusiastic and cooperative. Her warm and empathetic nature has had a positive influence on all students that she teaches,” Principal Parker said.
Ellen Gertel was honored from the Walter C. Black School. She transferred from the Melvin H. Kreps Middle School at the beginning of the school year.
Lori Stein, Kreps principal, said, “As a guidance counselor, Ms. Gertel is always ready with brochures, pamphlets, books and other resources as a support to any situation that arises. She continues to be a passionate counselor donating her time and energy to raise awareness of the needs to struggling residents in the communities of Hightstown and East Windsor.”
Harold Cox was also honored for 25 years.
”Because of his love and passion for teaching science, Mr. Cox has inspired countless students when they step into his classroom. He is also open to incorporating new strategies to meet the needs of all his students. Mr. Cox has also inspired his students as the Wrestling Coach and Assistant Track and Field Coach,” Principal Stein said.
Perry L. Drew School Principal Robert Dias was in attendance to honor Lynn Marie Churchman.
Principal Dias said, “Mrs. Churchman gets joy out of working with students by helping them reach their highest potential and be the best students possible. In 2010, Mrs. Churchman was able to help build, plan and prepare the Drew School Garden. The result of her tremendous work was a wonderful garden, which still stands today.”
Hightstown High School Principal Alix Arvizu was also in attendance to honor David Williams on his 25 years of teaching.
Principal Arvizu said, “As a literature teacher, Dr. Williams can allow students to realize that (the) literature that they read can be applied to their daily lives. Along the way, he has led most to become critical and analytic thinkers. Dr. Williams has taught a wide range of classes and levels of English at HHS, but he is noted for the Senior English, AP English and Senior Humanities English classes.”
Finally, Iris Landau was honored for her 25 years of work with Student Services.
”Over the past 25 years, Mrs. Landau has supported the growth of students towards independence and self-advocacy. She works collaboratively with her colleagues to insure that these skills are reinforced in a natural setting. She takes pride in the accomplishments the students have made,” said Tekalah Sherrod, director of Student Services for the district.
Three members from the Transportation Department were also recognized for perfect attendance from the previous school year, including van attendant Karen De Angelis and bus drivers Donna Sweeney and Jean Prophete.
”It takes true dedication to be 100 percent non-absentee if you show up to work at 6 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. They’re at work before the lights are on and they’re the first person the children see,” said Ingrid Reitano, Transportation Department supervisor.
Noteworthy, Maria Rodriguez, from the Rogers School, and Trudy Heisler, who works in administration, were honored for 25 years of service, however, both were unable to receive their awards in person.

