The New Jersey Education Association is proud of the work our members do to make our public schools, and our communities, stronger for every child. That’s why the NJEA is a proud sponsor of the Teachers Who Rock Class of 2022 and is presenting the Community Spotlight Award.

The Community Spotlight Award recognizes outstanding Jersey Teachers, who shine in the classrooms, and in serving their communities.

NJEA is Proud to present the 2022 Community Spotlight Award to:

STEPHANIE WHELAN

SpanishTeacher
Red Bank Primary School

Stephanie Whelan is the Spanish teacher at Red Bank Primary School. Nominated by fellow teacher Rachel DeBari, who says if you look up “kind” in the dictionary, you will see a picture of Mrs. Whelan. Stephanie is one of the most genuine people you will ever meet, and Red Bank Primary School is so incredibly lucky to have her as the Spanish teacher. Stephanie is known for always finding the “silver lining” in tough situations. It’s who she is. Stephanie sees the best in every situation and the best in every student. She makes a conscious effort to treat each student the way she would want her own children to be treated by their teachers.  Stephanie’s kindness is contagious. Rachel continues by saying Stephanie inspires everyone she comes in contact with to be a better person, students and staff alike.  She has a way of making you reflect on your own decisions, problems, and situations that always helps you come out more grounded.  In these trying times, we all need a Stephanie Whelan in our lives, and at Red Bank Primary School we are luckier than she will ever know. Stephanie works on the cutest group project with her classes.  Projects like this take a lot of prep work that she often does at home outside of school hours.  Stephanie has also taken it upon herself to “adopt” families during the winter holiday season.  One year, Stephanie and her family adopted a family that had 3 students in our school, a student in pre-k, and several older siblings in high school and college.  Stephanie bought gifts and necessities for EACH SIBLING, even the older ones whom she had never taught. She is also involved in our school PTO events such as Harvest Festival and International Night. All of these qualities make Stephanie Whelan of Red Bank Primary School a “Teacher Who Rocks!” 

Join WJRZ and the New Jersey Education Association in celebrating the critical role teachers and school employees play in their classrooms and in our communities.