The Hopewell Valley Regional School District recently celebrated some of its most dedicated educators and support professionals as part of the Governor’s Educator of the Year program at the Jan. 27 Board of Education meeting. Principals from each school highlighted the exceptional contributions these honorees have made to their students, colleagues, and the broader school community. Below are some of their words in recognition of this year’s recipients.
Bear Tavern Elementary School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Mrs. Leigh Fesmire
“Today, we celebrate Mrs. Leigh Fesmire as Bear Tavern’s Governor’s Educator of the Year. Mrs. Fesmire has served Bear Tavern as a teacher for the last 27 years in various positions and is currently an interventionist. Her passion for helping children is evident in all she does.
Beyond her classroom, Mrs. Fesmire is a driving force within our school community, spearheading staff initiatives and fostering collaboration among her peers. Her commitment to excellence and ability to inspire those around her make her a cornerstone of our team.
We are so fortunate to have Mrs. Fesmire as part of our school family, and we celebrate her remarkable contributions to education and the lives she touches daily.”
Hopewell Valley Central High School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Ms. Jami Taranto
“Ms. Taranto has been a teacher in the Wellness Department at HVCHS for the past twenty-four years. During that time, she has not only taught multiple levels of traditional wellness classes, but she has also impacted hundreds of students through her work with the Teen PEP Program, the Adaptive Wellness class, and the Leadership Corps Program.
Ms. Taranto is well respected both by her colleagues, who describe her as ‘a constant beacon of energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism,’ and also by her students. Ms. Taranto maintains high standards for her students and encourages them to prioritize well-being both in and out of the classroom. As one student said, ‘She pushes you to be the best version of yourself.’ The impact that Ms. Taranto has had upon the students of HVCHS is immeasurable, and we are proud to recognize her as the HVCHS Governor’s Educator of the Year.”
Governor’s Educational Support Professional of the Year: Ms. Theresa Montagna
“Ms. Montagna has been a paraprofessional in Hopewell Valley Regional School District since 2007. She has supported dozens of our special education students since that time and is known for her patience, kindness, and humor. Ms. Montagna also has a positive impact on her colleagues and on the school as a whole through her involvement in the HVEPSA, the Garden Club, and the HVCHS Faculty Council.
We are appreciative of Ms. Montagna’s hard work and unfailing dedication to the students of HVCHS, and we’re excited to celebrate her as the HVCHS Governor’s Educational Support Professional of the Year!”
Hopewell Elementary School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Ms. Leah Anderson
“Hopewell Elementary School is thrilled to announce that our Art Teacher, Leah Anderson, has been named our Governor’s Educator of the Year! Ms. Anderson’s creativity and dedication shine in every project, from organizing the Peace, Joy, Love, and Hope ornament for our community to designing the school’s calming corner, the Lily Pad.
Her unbelievable bulletin boards beautifully showcase student artwork, inspiring pride, and joy in all who see them. We are so proud to celebrate Ms. Anderson’s passion for fostering creativity and connection at Hopewell Elementary School!”
Stony Brook Elementary School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Mr. Doug Morrison
“Mr. Morrison is the epitome of an inclusive educator. He has the ability to connect with every child and genuinely makes everyone feel welcome. He continually demonstrates an unwavering commitment to creating a supportive learning environment where everyone belongs and develops this compassion in all of his students.
As one nomination stated, ‘Mr. Morrison continually encouraged the students to push their boundaries, supporting them to meet his high expectations and celebrating their successes along the way. I can think of no better teacher to recommend for this award. His students are lucky to have such a passionate and compassionate educator as part of their school journey.'”
Governor’s Educational Support Professional of the Year: Ms. Kerry Roell
“Ms. Roell joined Stony Brook in 2014, and has been an integral part of our school community ever since. While Ms. Roell has worked in a variety of classroom settings, she has spent most of her time in kindergarten. She has left a positive impact on the many students she has worked with.
As one nomination stated, ‘The children adore her, and that is because of her compassionate and sincerely caring nature. She is insightful and intuitive and always senses when something is going on with a student so that we can explore their feelings and support them. She always has the students’ best interests at heart!'”
Timberlane Middle School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Ms. Jamie Adler
“Ms. Adler is an eighth-grade English teacher who has served the Hopewell Valley Regional School District with tireless dedication, ceaseless empathy, and irrepressible joy for over 20 years.
As one former student stated, ‘Ms. Adler is the single most impactful teacher I had during my time in the Hopewell Valley School District. She is one of a kind and is a sort of keystone in Timberlane’s infrastructure. Now an adult myself, I still appreciate all of the wisdom Ms. Adler has offered me over the years.’
Ms. Adler is not only a highly skilled educator but also a mentor and advocate for her students. She takes the time to understand each individual, ensuring that no one feels overlooked. Her ability to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment is recognized by students and colleagues alike.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Adler plays a significant role in shaping the Timberlane community. She is an advisor for the Student Council, an active member of the DEI committee, and a key organizer of the Saturday Promise program. Her commitment to student success extends far beyond academics, as she consistently seeks ways to uplift and empower those around her.”
Toll Gate Grammar School
Governor’s Educator of the Year: Ms. Pam Weltz
“Ms. Pam Weltz has been an educator at Toll Gate Grammar School since 2002, teaching fifth, fourth, and second grade. Prior to joining Hopewell Valley, she taught in both Florida and Ohio.
In the classroom, Ms. Weltz is consistently prepared and is always looking for innovative ways to engage all of her students. She often gives up her own time during the day to have lunch with her students, strengthening their connection and building a supportive learning environment. Despite her years of experience, she continues to collaborate with colleagues, searching for ways to enhance her craft.
When she encounters students who are struggling, she fiercely advocates for them, differentiates her instruction, and works tirelessly until she meets their needs. Ms. Weltz maintains a calm demeanor that positively influences her students and fosters a sense of security in her classroom.
Throughout the years, she has contributed to the school community by running student government, serving on the spirit committee, and assisting with the school yearbook committee. Her enthusiasm and dedication to her students are felt by all the families she serves.
As one parent shared, ‘My daughter often comes home jumping out of her skin to tell me about something exciting that happened in class that day or to share something interesting she learned. She’s always eager to get to school the very next day.’ Another student added, ‘We are a class community that loves each other because of her.’
Transportation Department
Governor’s Educational Support Professional of the Year: Ms. Denise Ewing
“Ms. Denise Ewing is a valued bus driver in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District’s Transportation Department. She goes above and beyond for her students and co-workers, ensuring that every school day starts on the right foot.
Ms. Ewing arrives early each morning to start the buses, making sure they are warm and ready for students, particularly on cold mornings. With over 40 years of experience as a driver—three of those with HVRSD—she has built strong relationships with students and families.
Previously, she worked in the district while employed by Rick Bus Company, making her deeply familiar with the area and its school community. As one student who nominated her stated, ‘Every morning, she greets us with a kind good morning and sends us off with a good night. She understands how important it is to start the school day in a positive way.’
Ms. Ewing’s commitment to student safety, comfort, and well-being exemplifies the vital role that transportation staff play in education.”
Celebrate Excellence in Education
The Hopewell Valley Education Foundation (HVEF) is hosting the Above & Beyond Celebration on March 21, 2025 to honor outstanding educators and staff. Join the event and support the incredible teachers who make a difference in our schools.
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
