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 2023 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 2023 Community Spotlight Award to:

KATHY PALAGONIA

Media Specialist
Berkeley Township Elementary School, Bayville 

As the media specialist at the Berkeley Township Elementary School Mrs. Palagonia shares her love for reading with her students, always going the extra mile for them.

Her passion and enthusiasm for her programs are evident in the extracurricular activities she offers to her students. In order to foster a community of readers, she annually holds creative events like the Battle of the Books and Readers Theater.

Mrs. Palagonia also shares her love of the outdoors with her students, coordinating a 3-day, 2-night trip to Stokes State Forest, and creating the Potter Creek Crusaders. She also helped found the Berkeley Township Educational and Environmental Foundation, assisted in programs such as Trout in the Classroom, and even created a nature trail right in the schools back yard.

For Mrs. Palagonia’s enthusiasm and passion for learning, we’re proud to honor her as 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.