2024-25 Educator of the Year Awards

Kristin Holmes has been an integral member of the Franklin School family for the past 19 years. A 4th grade teacher, Holmes received a Bachelor of Arts Rutgers University before earning a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from St. Peter's University. Holmes dedicates this award with sincerest gratitude to her family.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

I became a teacher to help children, especially in the community that raised me, because every child deserves someone who believes in them and pushes them to succeed. Teaching is not just a job for me, it is a way to empower future generations and give back to the community that shaped me. Giving back to the Kearny community is one of my greatest motivations. I carry that responsibility with pride, and I hope I’ve made you all proud.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Beyond academics, educators teach respect, empathy, responsibility, and perseverance - values that contribute to personal development and social harmony. Every day, I have the opportunity to help students grow, not just academically, but as individuals. Watching my students gain confidence, think critically, and discover their own voices is incredibly rewarding. Teaching my students to be independent is the most valuable lesson I can teach them. It is a skill that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my father, whose countless sacrifices laid the foundation for who I am today. To my mother, whose unwavering empathy showed me that kindness is true strength. To my sister, my fiercest supporter and protector: your love has been my anchor. You are my greatest teachers. I love you.

A Kearny native, Robin Reilly has been a dedicated Social Worker and member of the Child Study Team for the past 17 years. Holding a BA in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania and an MA in Social Work from Fordham University, Reilly is an advocate, educator, and true supporter of all her students.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means providing a positive, supportive, and nurturing environment for students. It means helping to build their confidence in themselves and their abilities, while being an advocate for them. As an educator, it is important to me to help my students to feel positively about themselves and reach their fullest potential.

What do you love most about being a Kearny teacher?

As someone who was educated within the Kearny school system and was taught by so many dedicated and motivating teachers, I love being able to give back to a school district that has had such as positive impact on me and who I've become. I am appreciative of the strong connections that I have been able to form with the students and families of Kearny, as well as with my colleagues.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my parents, both of whom were educators. I was inspired by the compassion and commitment with which they approached their work, as well as the positive impact they had on their students. Their passion for education has definitely contributed to my love of working in this field.

Adriana Soares holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and a Masters in Instruction and Curriculum from Kean University.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being able to help students think and be creative. I want my students to feel they are in a safe place where they can explore, question, and learn. I love being a role model for my kids, not only with their academics, but also with their values and attitudes.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?

I love being a Kearny teacher because it is being a part of a diverse community where there is a unique blend of cultures. Every day, I get to inspire and be inspired by students and other teachers who bring energy and resilience into the schools. Teaching here is not just a job, it is a relationship with the students, parents and my colleagues.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I want to dedicate this award to my husband and daughter who have always supported me and respected what I do.

First grade teacher Iris Concepcion holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Feliciano College and has been proudly serving Kearny students for the past 8 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being able to guide and inspire my students to learn and expand their knowledge. It also allows me to shape and mold young minds to prepare them for the future world. Being an educator means creating a safe environment for my students to be successful all while having an open line of communication with their families to foster long lasting relationships.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

Kearny holds a special place in my heart. I started many years ago being an aide while going to school for my teaching degree. I love working in Kearny and being able to work with such a diverse group of students and families each year. Every school year is different in my classroom, and although I may face challenges, the support of the staff and my colleagues is exceptional.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my students. Without them, I would not be the person I am. They push me to always strive to do my best, and keep learning new techniques and strategies to use in the classroom. My students are my reason and my why each and every day when I come to work.

A proud Kearny Graduate of the Class of 1969, Barbara Millar has been a staple of the Kearny community and currently serves as the Garfield School Nurse. She holds a BA in Health and Physical Education from Montclair State University and a nursing degree from Mountainside Hospital School of Nursing.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being a nurse educator is being the calm, the care, and the “you are going to be okay” in every kid's lives.

Why do you love being a Kearny school nurse?

Because everyday, the kids remind me why I love this work.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

To Jenn Mead and Flora Encarnacao who recruited me and believed in me. And lastly to my husband, John who has been my biggest supporter.

Mary Ann Sweeny has been an educator with the Kearny Schools for 30 years, teaching special education students in grade 1, and earned her Bachelor's Degree from Kean University.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator allows me to inspire and guide students in their learning journey. In the field of special education in particular, I enjoy being able to provide students with the tools to conquer their learning differences and do my part to help them achieve success.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?

I love being a Kearny educator because it allows me to be a member of a community of teachers that put their students' needs first. Kearny is a special place. We not only nurture learning, we also inspire confidence and curiosity in our students.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my lifelong friend, Helen who inspired me to pursue my degree in education. She saw something in me that I didn't see in myself and has been a mentor for my entire career.

Pam Lowry has been a celebrated faculty member for the past 17 years, and currently teaches first grade at Roosevelt School. A Kearny High graduate, Lowry earned her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Scranton and a Master's from New Jersey City University.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means kindness, compassion and helping students have fun and learn along the way.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

As someone who has gone through the Kearny School system, I had great educators and I knew one day I wanted to be one. I find Kearny to be a loving and caring community of people and learners.

Who do you dedicate this award to?

I dedicate this award to my family and colleagues. Without their unwavering support, I would not be the educator I am today.

Schuyler School's Margaret O'Malley received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ramapo College of New Jersey, and has been teaching third graders for 13 years.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator is not just about teaching students information but fostering critical thinking and helping students see their full potential even when they cannot always see it themselves. For me, it’s a calling to show up every day with empathy, patience, and purpose, knowing that even small moments can make a lasting impact on a student’s life.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

I love being a Kearny teacher specifically because I am giving back to a community that gave so much to me. The camaraderie between the teachers and staff is like no other. This community is filled with resilience, diversity, and heart. Every day, I get to work with students who bring their unique stories, cultures, and perspectives into the classroom, which constantly inspires me to grow as an educator.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my family for always encouraging me, keeping me motivated and reassuring me that I am making a difference even on the hardest days.

Lan Liu has been fostering critical thinking and creativity through language and learning to Schuyler's K-6 ESL students for 31 extraordinary years. Having grown up in China, she earned a BA in English Language and Literature from her home country's Northwest Normal University before moving to the States to complete her MA in School Administration and Supervision at Rowan University. A lifelong learner, Liu holds certifications in Elementary Teaching, ESL and Bicultural Education, ESL, and Supervision.

What does being an educator mean to you?

I believe being an educator is like being a candle—quietly giving light by offering knowledge, time, and energy. Just as a candle shines for all, a teacher inspires and guides every student, regardless of who they are.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

I love teaching in the Kearny School District because of its great leadership, supportive environment, and chances to grow professionally. Teaching ESL here is especially rewarding—I enjoy helping students from diverse backgrounds find their voice and succeed. It gives me a strong sense of purpose and joy.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to my sponsors, Mr. and Mrs. Drysdale. Over 30 years ago, they saw potential in me and brought me from China to the U.S., welcoming me into their home as family. Their kindness gave me more than a place to live - it gave me hope, stability, and a chance at a better future. With their support, I was able to attend Rowan University and earn my Master’s degree, something I never thought possible. Their belief in me changed my life.

Jaclyn Mirigliani graduated from MSU with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Elementary Education before moving on to earn a Masters in Education from Walden University. She has been a devoted member of the Washington School faculty for the past 13 years, teaching grade 3.

What does being an educator mean to you?

I wanted to be a teacher my whole life. While my classmates were dreaming about leaving the classroom and becoming doctors, astronauts, or celebrities, I was dreaming of staying in the classroom. Being a teacher feels like a childhood dream come true. It is not always easy, some days can be really challenging, but at the end of every day I know that I'm where I'm supposed to be and that is really fulfilling.

Why do you love being a Kearny teacher?

I love working in Kearny because it's my home. When I graduated college, I didn't want to teach in the area. Five years into my career, I ended up coming back to Kearny and it immediately felt like home. I finally felt settled in my career. Washington School is the absolute best and I am so grateful to be a teacher here! My students hold such a special place in my heart and my colleagues have not only become friends, but family.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I dedicate this award to the best teacher I know inside and outside of the classroom: my dad. My dad was a teacher and administrator in Harrison for over 40 years. Growing up, it was rare to be in the area without meeting a student or former student of his. Whenever my brother and I would meet them they would always tell us that our dad was their favorite teacher and share a memory. We would often just smile politely or roll our eyes at each other because this happened constantly. Now, as a teacher and adult, I know what a lasting impact teachers can have. I am so proud that my dad has done that for so many people and I hope I can do the same.

Allyson Kennedy is a Kearny resident and graduate of Kean University, earning two Bachelor's Degrees: one in Education and one in Psychology. She has been teaching Science to middle schoolers for 31 years, with 30 of them in Kearny.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means having the opportunity and responsibility to guide, empower and inspire my students through learning. An important part of that is helping my middle school students build confidence and eventually realize their own potential in all areas of life.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

I love being a teacher in Kearny - it is where I have called home for 53 of my 55 years. Kearny is where I went to school, met some of my best friends, played sports, met my husband and raised my family. For the past 30 years it has been my privilege to give back to the community that supported me in my early years.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I would like to dedicate this teaching award to all of the students I’ve had the honor of helping recognize their full potential, especially those who had struggles along the way. It has been my privilege to work alongside my students, seeing their growth and determination and witnessing their unique strengths shine. This award is a celebration of their hard work and the progress we've made together.

Diana Campos-Sager has been proudly serving the Kearny School District as a teacher's aide at Lincoln Middle School for the past ten years. Hailing from Brazil, she earned her degree at FACHA before moving to the United States, where she has raised her family as a Kearny resident.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means being kind, understanding, and compassionate to every student in our schools.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

I have lived in Kearny for many years, ever since I first moved to the United States from Brazil. My children went through Kearny Schools, and I’m proud to be working in this school district that offered the same support to my kids. I am giving back to the same community that welcomed me with open arms.

Who do you dedicate this award to?

To my children and my colleagues for the amazing support and dedication to the special needs students.

Kearny High School Graphics Design teacher Joseph "Joe" Domalewski has been teaching our high school students for the past 20 years, having earned his Bachelor's Degree from NJCU and a Master's Degree from St. Peter's University.

What does being an educator mean to you?

As an educator, I believe it is my responsibility to share the knowledge and skills I have been fortunate to acquire, with the aim of enriching the lives of those I mentor. In fulfilling this responsibility, it is essential to model professionalism and cultivate values such as good citizenship, a strong work ethic, responsible parenthood, and ethical living while maintaining a high morale.

Why do you love being a Kearny educator?

Early in my career at Kearny High School, I quickly learned that when someone is in need, the community comes together in strong support. This sense of collaboration is one of the reasons I am passionate about teaching at Kearny. Being honored with the "Teacher of the Year" award would not have been possible without the unwavering support and trust I received in developing a state-of-the-art Graphic Design curriculum.

Who do you dedicate this award to and why?

I believe the "Teacher of the Year" award should be dedicated to the students who have walked into my classroom. It feels like the right gesture, as they are the true reason I hold the title of teacher. I do what I do for the students, and it is genuinely a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Our District Supervisor of Testing and Student Data, Meghan Avitable, has been a fixture in the Kearny School system for 23 years. Holding a Bachelor's in Computer Information Systems from Caldwell College and a Masters in Administration and Supervision, Avitable ensures our student data is secure and that district assessments are administered efficiently.

What does being an educator mean to you?

Being an educator means continually learning, guiding others, and inspiring meaningful growth. It involves guiding not only students through academic content and personal development, but also supporting teachers in their professional growth. As someone who has transitioned from the classroom to a supervisor role, I see education as a collaborative effort that involves continuous reflection, adaptability, and a deep commitment to student success. It is incredibly fulfilling to play a part in shaping educational experiences and contributing to the success of the entire school community.

Why do you love being a Kearny Educator?

I love being a Kearny educator because this town is more than just where I work. It is where I grew up, received my education, and became who I am. Having attended Schuyler, Lincoln, and Kearny High School, returning to teach here felt like coming full circle. What makes it truly special is the deep sense of community. Whether I’m supporting students in the classroom, collaborating with colleagues, or working behind the scenes in data and testing, I feel connected to something bigger. There’s a unique energy here with a mix of pride, resilience, and heart that keeps me passionate about what I do every day.

Who do you dedicate this award to?

I dedicate this award to my family. My husband Justin, our sons Domenic and Vincent, my parents, and my brother Edward, who was once one of my students! They have all been incredible sources of support and encouragement throughout my journey. Their patience and understanding mean everything to me. I’m also deeply grateful to my friends Denise and Paul, and to my colleagues for always standing by me - especially during “testing season.” The support of my family, friends, and colleagues has been the steady foundation that enables me to follow my passion while balancing the responsibilities of work and home. I am deeply thankful for their constant support and encouragement.

Daniel was born and raised in Poland. He immigrated to the United States where he worked in construction and the automobile industry.

Daniel managed his own construction business. He joined the Kearny Board of Education on August 18, 2021 and uses his vast experience working with the maintenance team. He was recently promoted to Maintenance Foreman.

Daniel is married to Maggie, and they have two sons: Oliver and Julian. Music is Daniel's passion. In Poland, and here in the United States, Daniel is the lead singer of a band. The band was very popular amongst the Polish community for many years. Daniel passed his passion for music onto his two sons who both sing and play instruments.

Daniel enjoys working with and for the people of the Kearny Board of Education.

Tomasz Poplawski was born on June 10, 1981 in Poland. He pursued a career as an electrician, completing his training and continuing to work in the field to this day. On February 19, 2007, Poplawski made a significant life change by moving to the United States. He is a devoted husband and father, sharing his life with his wife Virginia, and their 11 year old daughter, Vanessa. Tom is known for his dedication to his family and his long standing commitment to his profession.

"In 2022, I started working at the Kearny Board of Ed," reflects Poplawski. "I like my job and the people I have the pleasure of working with."