Kinnelon schools honor retirees, teachers and educational specialists at May 21 meeting

The Kinnelon Board of Education used part of its May 21 meeting to recognize a long list of retirees and to present teacher and educational specialist awards across the district.

Administrators and principals called retirees and honorees to the podium and described their careers. Highlights included Linda Johnson, who was celebrated for more than 50 years in the Kinnelon High School mathematics department, and Alan Brissett, who was recognized for 38 years in buildings and grounds. The district also named school-level teachers of the year and honored recipients of the Governor's Educator awards.

"My name is Sarah, and as always, we've had a wonderful month," said Sarah Bridal, who summarized events across Keele, Stony Brook, PRM and KHS. Bridal listed recent student events, test completions, music concerts and upcoming move-up and promotion ceremonies. Building principals and administrators then presented individual remarks about each retiree's work and community contributions.

The board recessed briefly for photos; administrators noted that recordings and some event details would be posted on school websites. Several board members praised the district's staff and community groups for the support that enabled student events and philanthropic activities.

The meeting then resumed business items on the agenda.