Warren Hills Regional Middle School Announces 2025–2026 Governor’s Educator of the Year Recipients

 

Washington, NJ — December 11, 2025 — Warren Hills Regional Middle School is proud to announce the 2025–2026 Governor’s Educator of the Year (GEOY) honorees: Mrs. Nichole Ehasz, Teacher of the Year, and Mrs. Elizabeth Kurpat, Educational Services Professional of the Year. Both educators are being recognized for their exemplary commitment to student success, their professionalism, and their significant contributions to the school community.

 

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Teacher of the Year: Mrs. Nichole Ehasz

Since joining Warren Hills Regional Middle School last year as the lead teacher of the Multiple Disabilities (MD) program, Mrs. Nichole Ehasz has transformed the classroom into a model of inclusion, creativity, and student empowerment. Her instructional approach is rooted in the belief that every student deserves access to authentic, meaningful, and appropriately challenging learning experiences, and she designs her curriculum accordingly.

Mrs. Ehasz masterfully integrates real-world learning into her students’ daily routines. Her well-known “Kindness Crew” initiative—through which students take snack orders and deliver them to staff each Friday—builds social skills, vocational readiness, and independence. She designs immersive simulations such as a classroom restaurant where staff place orders, allowing students to practice communication, sequencing, and problem-solving in a supported setting. Her commitment to individualized instruction is evident in every lesson, as she skillfully coordinates paraprofessionals, rotates stations with purpose, and crafts differentiated activities tailored to each learner’s strengths and needs.

Her work extends well beyond classroom walls. Mrs. Ehasz has brought schoolwide initiatives to life, organizing a building-wide Trick-or-Treat experience for her students and collaborating with the Buddies PE program to promote inclusion. She also led the school in Autism Awareness activities last spring, reinforcing a culture of empathy and understanding. Last year, she guided her students through writing, illustrating, and publishing their own books—an accomplishment celebrated by families and staff and a testament to her belief in every student’s potential.

Principal Nicholas Remondelli praised her impact, stating:

“Mrs. Ehasz has completely reimagined what an MD classroom can be. She eliminates barriers, creates real-world learning opportunities, and empowers her students in ways that change lives. She works with some of our most complex learners, yet she does it with joy, creativity, and unwavering optimism. Her students gain confidence, independence, and pride every single day—and our school community is stronger because of her.”

Mrs. Ehasz’s dedication, innovation, and relentless student-centered focus make her an exceptional representative of the Governor’s Educator of the Year program.

 

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Educational Services Professional of the Year: Mrs. Elizabeth Kurpat

Mrs. Elizabeth Kurpat, School Psychologist and member of the Child Study Team, has earned the distinction of Educational Services Professional of the Year for her extraordinary advocacy, deep expertise, and steadfast commitment to students and families. Her work reflects a rare blend of technical proficiency, compassion, and leadership.From her first days at Warren 

Hills, Mrs. Kurpat demonstrated a thorough understanding of each student’s background, needs, and strengths. She collaborates closely with families, makes thoughtful and well-supported recommendations, and ensures that every child receives the services essential for academic and emotional success. Her mastery of special education strengthens her advocacy; students are consistently placed in programs that align with their unique needs because of her diligence and knowledge. She serves as a valued member of the Intervention & Referral Services (I&RS) team, contributing insight and guidance that support the broader student population. Beyond her formal role, she enriches school culture by participating in spirit days, engaging actively with students, and leading the middle and high school drama productions, providing creative and inclusive opportunities for students to shine.

Principal Nicholas Remondelli spoke highly of her service, stating:

“Mrs. Kurpat is the type of professional every school hopes to have. Her expertise is matched only by her compassion. She knows her students, she supports her families, and she advocates with clarity and conviction. She took on an extraordinary workload this year without a single complaint, and she continues to be a positive, steady presence in our building. Her impact is profound and far-reaching.”

Mrs. Kurpat’s professionalism, dedication, and unwavering advocacy make her an outstanding selection for Educational Services Professional of the Year.

 

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Celebrating Excellence in Education

Principal Nicholas Remondelli expressed pride in both award recipients:

“Mrs. Ehasz and Mrs. Kurpat exemplify the highest standards of our profession. Their commitment, creativity, and passion elevate not just the students they serve, but our entire school community. They are extraordinary educators, and it is an honor to celebrate their achievements.”

Superintendent Mr. Earl C. Clymer III also commended this year’s honorees:

“These educators represent the excellence that defines Warren Hills. Their dedication to students, families, and colleagues strengthens our district and reflects the core values that guide our mission.”

 

For more information, please contact Warren Hills Regional Middle School at 908-689-0750 or visit www.warrenhills.org.