The North Bergen Board of Education proudly honored a group of its educators earlier this week, as they were recognized as part of the 2022-23 Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.
The group of dedicated educators and educational services professionals received accolades as part of the prestigious program which highlights the outstanding contributions and commitment of educators across the state of New Jersey.
North Bergen Superintendent of Schools Dr. George Solter said in a statement, “From Pre-K through high school, our North Bergen teachers have demonstrated their outstanding abilities to engage, inspire, and empower students in their learning journeys. Their commitment to creating an inclusive and stimulating environment has fostered academic excellence and helped shape the minds of our future. Equally deserving of admiration are our educational services professionals, whose invaluable contributions extend beyond the confines of the classroom. Their tireless efforts have set new benchmarks in enhancing the educational experience, both within and outside the school setting. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for the immense contributions to our students, schools, and the entire North Bergen community. Their passion, talent, and dedication serve as an inspiration to us all and reinforces our commitment to providing a top-tier education system.”
The qualifications for the award recognition are wide-ranging. The educators who were nominated for the award were chosen by their peers. Each recipient is exceptionally skilled and dedicated; a licensed classroom teachers (Pre-K to grade 12 in a public or charter school), or educational services professionals (ESP) who have demonstrated leadership and innovation in educational activities at the school, district and/or state and national levels that take place both within and outside the school setting.

Congratulations go out to each and every North Bergen recipient. The complete list of honorees is as follows::
North Bergen Educator of the Year, 2022-2023 Honorees
Michelle Colli …………………………………………………………… John F. Kennedy Elementary
Sandra Negrin ………………………………………………………………….. McKinley Elementary
Stephen Yeager……………………………………………………………………. Franklin Elementary
Melissa Pablos……………………………………………………………………… Lincoln Elementary
Melody Travisano…………………………………………………………………… Polk Street School
Barbara Sansanelli ………………………………………………………… Robert Fulton Elementary
Idalia Noya ………………………………………………………………….. Horace Mann Elementary
Guy DiVincent ……………………………………………………………….North Bergen High School
Tatiana Liggio ……………………………………………………………….. Lincoln Elementary Pre-K
Michelle Quiero …………………………………………………………………………. Lincoln Annex
Educational Services Professional of the Year 2022-2023
Sunita Patel ……………………………………………………………….…….. McKinley Elementary
Cheryl Chesner ……………………………………………………………………. Franklin Elementary
Diana Englese ……………………………………………………………………… Lincoln Elementary
Victoria Duarte ……………………………………………………………… Horace Mann Elementary
