Only 120 teachers across the state received the honor for exhibiting strong knowledge and skills and having a positive impact on the school community—and three were in Middle Township.
Three Middle Township High School (MTHS) teachers have received the 2025 New Jersey Exemplary Educator Recognition Award: Matt Wolf, for physical education; Keirsten McPherson, for language arts; and Celia Llaberia, for Spanish.
The Exemplary Educator Award recognizes teachers who exhibit strong knowledge and skills, and have an inspiring presence and a positive impact on students, colleagues and the school community. Only 120 educators teaching grades 6-12 across the state earned the distinction this year.
MTHS Principal Dr. Sharon Rementer nominated the teachers for the award, which is a program of the New Jersey Department of Education.
“I am thrilled three of our teachers earned this honor,” said Rementer. “Their inclusion for this recognition is a true testament to their dedication, professionalism and the positive impact they have on our students, school and district. All three of these educators, as well as the many others who serve at the high school, continue to make my job easier and our school community stronger.”
About MTHS’s Exemplary Educator Award recipients:
Physical education teacher Matt Wolf has more than 16 years of teaching experience and is a frequent mentor both in and out of the classroom. He serves as a wrestling and track coach, and is dedicated to his students, athletes and colleagues.
Keirsten McPherson is in her 14th year as an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher at MTHS. McPherson understands the unique needs of ESL learners and consistently works to support both students and staff in a model of true language immersion. In addition, McPherson is known for being a steadfast advocate for her students.
Spanish teacher Celia Llaberia has dedicated 24 years to Middle Township School District’s (MTSD) students and staff. Her compassion, professionalism and student-centered approach make a positive impact on the school community, including in her new role as part of the Child Study Team at Middle Township Elementary #2.
For more information about MTSD, visit middletownshippublicschools.org.
