Congrats to our winner!

I have had the privilege of supporting the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development of young learners for over twenty-five years. I have worked as a classroom teacher before joining the Rutherford Child Study Team as a school psychologist in Lincoln school. I am fortunate to work collaboratively with such great teachers, parents, and administrators to ensure that every child receives the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. My approach is grounded in compassion and a deep belief in the potential of every child. Whether it’s helping a student build confidence, working with a teacher to modify instructional strategies, or guiding families through the special education process, I strive to be a consistent advocate and resource within the Bulldog community.

I graduated from Rutgers College of Nursing with a BS in Nursing. I worked at Saint Michael’s Medical Center in Newark for 11 years as a staff nurse and nurse manager in Labor & Delivery and the employment manager and nurse recruiter for the entire hospital. I am a Rutherford resident and raised 2 daughters with my husband, who is a physician. Our daughters were students in the Rutherford school system and are successful young women. I returned to study School Nursing at Felician University where I became a Certified School Nurse and then also received my Master’s degree in school nursing and health education. I am involved in many aspects of the school community, including advising the Service Club, creating the yearbook, coordinating the Spelling Bee and advising the school store. Next school year will be my 20th year as the school nurse of Pierrepont School.

My name is Jennifer Sayre, or Ms. Sayre. I graduated from The College of New Jersey in 2018 with a dual degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology. I am certified to teach Pre-K through 6th grade and have been teaching for seven years. For the past six years, I’ve had the joy of teaching kindergarten in Rutherford. I truly love what I do and feel so fortunate to help young children grow, learn, and discover their confidence during such an important stage in their lives. Creating a kind, supportive, and engaging classroom is at the heart of my teaching!

Nicole S. DeWald MS, OTR, is a pediatric Occupational Therapist who helps students to reach their potential by supporting the skills they need to learn and participate in the classroom. With 20 years of experience in pediatric and school-based practice, Nicole has been providing occupational therapy services through South Bergen Jointure Commission to the Rutherford school district since 2011. Nicole specializes in supporting student’s development in areas such as fine motor skills, visual motor skills, self-regulation, and daily living skills essential for academic success and independence.

My name is Vanessa Russo. I have been the K-1 Language and Learning Disabled Teacher at Lincoln School for nine years and it has been such a joy! I work with the most supportive team of teachers, paraprofessionals, and administration. Most students would describe me as fun-loving, organized, and always ready for a learning adventure! I pride myself on building a classroom that is a family. The most fulfilling part of my career is being lucky enough to witness the growth of my students from kindergarten through first grade. It is an absolute honor to be a part of each student's journey- at the very foundation of the amazing people they will become! 

I live in Rutherford with my husband and 3 children. I've been working with 3rd graders in the inclusion classroom at Lincoln School for 7 years. I'm passionate about creating a supportive, engaging learning environment where every student has the opportunity to grow, succeed and feel valued. 

My name is Chelsea Iocca, and I am the head teacher of the K/1 MD classroom at Lincoln School. My favorite part of my job is discovering each student’s special interests and incorporating them into their learning experience! Watching my students grow and succeed brings me joy—there’s nothing quite like the moment they master something new!  I’m grateful to work alongside incredible families and a dedicated team.A special thank-you to my amazing classroom aides, whose support makes everything possible!

My name is Berna Betancor. I have worked in the Rutherford District for 11 years. I started my career as the push in support teacher for grades 1-3. Currently, I am the Lincoln School Integrated Preschool Teacher. The past 9 years as an integrated preschool educator has been magical! The best part of my job is to provide my students with the skills to succeed and build a love for learning. I am a strong believer in learning through play and hands on activities as well as social and emotional learning. I am lucky to be a part of this extraordinary district and provide the best education for our smallest bulldogs!