Van Holten’s Governor’s Educator of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year is one of our excellent second-grade teachers, Mrs. Kelly Kokotajlo. Mrs. Kokotajlo is a veteran teacher of 21 years who brings her caring, dedicated, and hardworking approach to make a lasting impact on her students’ lives. Her classroom is a place where every student feels welcomed and inspired to learn. She creates lessons that provide students with opportunities to engage and explore content in various ways. Her ultimate goal is for students to achieve success in her classroom and then apply that learning in the years to come. She never wavers in meeting any challenge a student presents. Mrs. Kokotajlo works to connect with each of her students, often attending athletic events and dance recitals to support them. Van Holten School is lucky and proud to have such a remarkable educator! Congratulations, Mrs. Kokotajlo!
Van Holten’s Governor’s Educational Services Professional of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year is Ms. Susan Harwick. Ms. Harwick has worked in that role for the past 12 years of her 29-year career in education. Ms. Harwick is a relentless, committed professional whose mission is to create educational success for students and teachers at Van Holten School. The primary role of an ETS is to coach and model effective instructional practices to enhance classroom instruction. Mrs. Susan Harwick's performance as an ETS exceeds those expectations by a mile. She leads our Spelling Bee program, MTSS, and the training and implementation of NJSLA. Ms. Harwick develops and facilitates professional development opportunities at the building and district level. Ms. Harwick is a gifted educator dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and adults. She leads by example and goes well beyond her professional responsibilities to make that magic happen for others. The Van Holten School community is thrilled to honor Ms. Harwick as our ESP award winner. Congratulations, Ms. Harwick!