2026 Winners: Teachers Who Make Magic

We are proud to welcome the following teachers to the Magic 98.3 Teachers Who Make Magic Class of 2026!

Sponsored by NJ School Jobs, NJEA, Magyar Bank, Empire Toyota and Empire Mazda

Paraprofessional at Conerly Road School
Nominated by her co-worker, Stephan Bennett

Paras are the backbone that special education is built upon. They work tirelessly to do their best for challenging students in a demanding profession. Linda Perry puts all of them to shame.  

For the past 14 years, Linda has been a singular force in the classrooms and halls of Conerly Road School. Whether tirelessly advocating for the needs of students in her care or dedicating hours of her own time to raise funds for the Positive Behavior Intervention Strategies (PBIS) committee, she throws all of herself into her school without reservation or hesitation. 

When most paras are eating lunch, she is busy making phone calls to arrange special events for the school. When a student has a need, Linda is the first to stand up. For example, when the family of a student suffered a crisis, she helped set up a committee to organize support and services. 

As part of PBIS, Linda spends time every week running the school store, Friday student raffles, or meeting with the staff to identify problems and create solutions. 

In addition to PBIS, Linda is also part of the Medical Response Team, the Tier 2 Committee, has worked as a student mentor and in the Teachers’ Union, and was recognized as Conerly Road School Educational Support Professional of the Year. 

Linda Perry is a person who doesn’t just provide support for the school; she elevates it. This school has never met another paraprofessional who deserves to be recognized more than Linda Perry. 

Middle School Counselor
Nominated by Andrew Lewis, President of the OBEA

Kerryann Silvestri is a middle school counselor who truly makes magic, not with tricks, but with unwavering compassion, dedication, and heart. Her impact reaches far beyond the walls of her office or the confines of a school day. For students who need it most, she is a steady support system, a trusted listener, and a fierce advocate. She builds relationships that last years beyond graduation, continuing to uplift and encourage former students as they navigate life’s challenges. Within her school community, Kerryann is known as a reliable and compassionate colleague, someone others turn to for guidance and support. She leads “Helping Hands,” a school-based initiative that connects staff with the broader community and shines a light on the real-life needs of their students. Through this work, she has mobilized colleagues to give back in meaningful ways, most recently organizing efforts to provide jackets, hats, and gloves to students in need. What makes Kerryann’s work even more extraordinary is her ability to give so much while navigating her own personal challenges, including caring for a medically fragile son. Despite this, she continues to show up each day with empathy, strength, and a deep commitment to others. Kerryann Silvestri doesn’t just support students, she changes lives.

Executive Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent
Nominated by Melissa Lagemann, Special Education teacher at Jonathan Dayton High School in Springfield

Melissa doesn’t just manage a Special Education classroom; she builds a sanctuary. Over her 36-year career, 33 of which have been dedicated to Springfield Public Schools, her passion and positivity have only grown stronger. She’s living proof that the most profound teaching often happens outside the pages of a textbook. 

Melissa is more than a teacher; she is a fierce champion for every child who enters her room. The magic she creates is in the unwavering encouragement she provides. Her students know that if they need assistance with anything, academic or personal, they can turn to Mrs. Lagemann, and she will do whatever it takes to help. 

Her dedication is best illustrated by her actions during a recent morning duty. During a torrential downpour, Melissa saw that many students were arriving soaked, so she made sure they all had umbrellas for the future. She also got one soaked student dry shoes and socks. 

She’s a former teacher of the year and suitably leads the "Sunshine Club," because she’s someone who clearly radiates it. 

After nearly four decades of service, Melissa Lagemann remains a pillar of the Springfield community and the epitome of what it means to be a teacher who makes magic. 

Art teacher at Stony Brook Elementary School
Nominated by Stony Brook Elementary School Principal Kristen Kries

Ms. Rueger has been teaching for five years and does an excellent job as the art teacher at Stony Brook School.

Ms. Rueger has made it a point to beautify the school by finding creative ways to display student work. She includes collaborative art projects that incorporate the art of both students and staff, which is visible throughout the school. She consistently seeks out engaging projects for students that proudly show their artistic talents.

Ms. Ruger sought community input on what type of interactive art mural would be included in the main hallway. She incorporated academic ideas, as well as special area content, into a butterfly mural used for photo ops.

She builds relationships outside of the classroom by assisting with parent pick up, gets to know the students' families, and helps to ensure students make their way home safely.

Ms. Rueger’s flexibility and willingness to assist in all aspects of the school community make her an essential part of the team. She assists with school-led art projects, decorates for the annual Book Fair, runs the art club before school, and is available at recess to help with art projects.

She takes pride in the work the students create and ensures their success is highlighted in school and throughout the community.

Ms. Samantha Rueger, a class of 2026 Teacher Who Makes Magic!

Special Education teacher at Bridgewater Raritan Middle School
Nominated by fellow teacher Amy Snider.

Colleen DiMonte has been an educator for over 25 years and is the epitome of a teacher who makes magic. As a special education teacher, Colleen teaches math in a resource setting, but over the years, she has been tasked with supporting students in math, science, and social studies in a mainstream classroom.

In every instance, she is a teacher who supports, encourages, and empowers all students. She goes out of her way to help students who struggle to understand subject matter, make progress, and feel successful.

She spends free periods and duty periods with students, and when a student needs more than the typical support or has more specific learning needs or styles, Colleen presents the material in a way they can access.

She is also an invaluable bridge to families, communicating with parents daily to help them support their child, and she makes learning and growth fun and achievable.

Coleen has participated in the student-faculty basketball fundraiser since its inception 14 years ago. She also supports the seventh-grade overnight environmental trip, spending 2 1/2 days at Fairview Lake with her students, learning about New Jersey’s geology, ecosystems, and history.

Colleen DiMonte, now a member of our Teachers Who Make Magic Class of 2026

Teacher at Community Park Elementary School
Nominated by fellow teacher Camila Del Castillo

Adam Blejwas has been teaching for over fifteen years and makes learning unforgettable at Community Park Elementary School.

Adam gives children far more than lessons; he gives them experiences, a sense of belonging, and confidence. He turns everyday learning into something students talk about for years: guest readers, creative projects, memorable class traditions like “class pets”, and meaningful connections to nature and the community.

He quietly removes barriers for kids. When a student needs something to fully participate, like supplies, support, encouragement, or extra time, he steps in without hesitation. He regularly gives additional hours before and after school through clubs, activities, and hands-on help so students feel supported and successful.

Adam launched and sustained a recycling program and helped direct funds toward the school garden. He also leads the BiciBus or Bicycle Bus, creating a safe way for children to bike to school while building community and healthy habits.

He also consistently supports the Latino community and advocates for a strong, growing Dual Language Spanish program, helping it evolve so more students and families feel represented and welcomed.

Adam is a winner of the Sustainable Princeton Leadership Award.

Adam Blejwas, for all that he does, is also a recipient of the Magic 98.3 Teachers Who Make Magic Award.

Math Academic Support Teacher at Elizabeth Avenue School in Somerset
Nominated by co-worker Sage Patel

A teacher for eight years, Jalessa Phillips is an exceptional educator whose dedication to her students and the Elizabeth Avenue community is evident in all she does.

She teaches math across multiple grade levels, requiring a deep understanding of both grade-level standards and prerequisite skills. Through a push-in small-group model, Jalessa provides targeted Tier 2 and Tier 3 instruction that is responsive to student data and individual needs.

She builds strong relationships through personalized lessons, intentional social-emotional check-ins, and goal-setting tools that promote student ownership and confidence.

Jalessa’s commitment extends beyond the classroom through her work on the Title I Math Committee, active participation in professional learning, and involvement in school-wide and family events that strengthen community connections.

She is involved in Math PBIS - Positive Behavioral Intervention Support, Battle of the Books, Math Pact Book Club, Mathematician of the Month, and Math Game Night.

She is also the recipient of the Elizabeth Avenue School Mighty Tiger Staff Award.

And now, Jalessa Phillips is receiving the honor of Teacher Who Makes Magic

Pre-K Inclusion Teacher at Van Derveer Elementary School in Somerville
Nominated by Samantha Ackerman

For the past 13 years, Stacy has been a dedicated educator at Van Derveer Elementary, teaching in K–2 MD classrooms, preschool self-contained settings, and, most recently, preschool inclusion.

She is a lifelong learner who continually strives to grow in her practice. In 2024, she earned her master’s degree in early childhood education from Monmouth University, further strengthening her ability to support her students with both expertise and compassion.

However, Stacy’s commitment extends far beyond her classroom. She currently serves as co-chair of the Autism Awareness Committee, which she helped start in 2017, and has generously contributed her time to numerous school initiatives, including the Backpack Program, Angel Tree, Summer School Supply Drives, Sunfish, Food Drives Supporting families of students with disabilities, Trunk or Treat, and the Strawberry Festival Committee.

What truly sets Stacy apart is her ability to build meaningful relationships and create a classroom where every child feels Stacy’s positivity, kindness, and compassion, making learning fun, engaging, and purposeful. She strongly believes in learning through play, helping kids grow with confidence.

Stacy has earned respect and admiration from students, families, and staff, and is also a mentor and leader among her peers, always willing to support others. Stacy Sciorra truly embodies what it means to be a Teacher Who Makes Magic!

Watchung Hills Regional High School 20-year veteran Social Studies and History Teacher
Nominated by supervisor Anita Byk

Ken Karnas is the former Watchung Hills Teacher of the Year, and every day in Mr. Karnas's room is an educational adventure. Whether animating historical events by standing on his desk, dancing, using his gong, or running down the hall with a bullhorn, learning with Mr. Karnas is unforgettable.

He has incredible energy and a sense of humor that keeps students engaged, holds them to high standards, and teaches them responsibility while realizing each student’s individual needs and issues.

His classroom is always open for students to have a safe place with a trusted adult to talk to or for extra help. Students absolutely adore Mr. Karnas and always remark on how grateful they are to have him as a teacher. He is a constant learner and revises his lessons regularly to bring in new ways of learning and teaching.

Mr. Karnas is also the school's championship-winning Ultimate Frisbee coach. He also started an Ultimate Frisbee Club for the high school and middle school.

He’s the BELIEV Club Advisor working with Children's Specialized Hospitals and pediatric patients. He’s the former president of Watchung Hills Regional Educational Association and serves as grievance chair for WHNEA.

Mr. Karnas donates his time to special causes such as fundraisers for the prevention of childhood cancer, organizes the annual food drive, and environmental causes like the cleaning of New Jersey beaches.

Ken Karnas of Watchung Hills High School

Hightstown’s Walter C Black Elementary School ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher
Nominated by Kim Amenti

Adrienne McDonald has been educating for 20 years.

Inclusive, supportive, fun, immersed, and patient. These are some of the words to describe Mrs. Adrienne McDonald. She goes above and beyond on a daily basis for all of her students. She is inclusive in that all of her students feel valued, regardless of their background, language, learning style, or ability level.

With all of the countries’ flags adorning the perimeter of her classroom, students feel welcome, comfortable, and supported. Her students learn to speak English in a fun and natural way through songs, games, chants, stories, and special crafts she incorporates into daily lessons.

Students have grown plants, learned to take care of the Earth through her special recycling program, and make morning announcements to encourage their language acquisition.

Mrs. McDonald is totally immersed in the culture of the school beyond the walls of her classroom. She is part of the Green Team, which supports, encourages, and assists with school-wide initiatives helping kids become “planet protectors” by reusing their water bottles, bringing waste-free lunches, and encouraging school-wide recycling.

She is also part of the “Leader and Me” initiative and supports Walter C Black's culture of trust, leadership, and empowerment based on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and she works with the PTO for “Multicultural Night.”

Mrs. McDonald is patient and works through any struggles students experience at their own pace. These are the reasons why Mrs. McDonald should be commended for being a teacher who makes magic!

Stony Brook Elementary School Music Teacher
Nominated by Stony Brook Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Lisa Biondi

Stony Brook Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Lisa Biondi

Entered Natalie Tews as a nominee for Teachers Who Make Magic.

Natalie is Stony Brook’s music teacher in North Plainfield and has been teaching for 6 years. Ms. Tews makes music magical. Natalie tailors her lessons to make sure all of her students feel welcomed and excited about music.

Natalie created an original song in both English and Spanish for the students about following the school’s principles, CARD, caring, appreciation, respect, determination.

Natalie takes the time to get to know all of her students, not just in her music classes. Beyond the classroom, Natalie wears many hats. She is the newspaper advisor and works with fourth graders. She is the director of Stony Brook's chorus and is the band director.

As an added contribution, Natalie serves as the assistant director of the North Plainfield High School marching band. Every Halloween, she coordinates a performance by the North Plainfield High School marching band for Stony Brook's student costume parade.

Natalie also hosts the annual “Stony Brook's Got Talent” show, where she rehearses and coordinates with all the performers, including students and staff. Natalie Tews is the epitome of a team player.

She collaborates with the Hispanic Heritage Month Family Event, North Plainfield’s Fall Festival, and Stony Brook’s Santa and Friends Family Night event. She has also volunteered to help with Black History Month, Field Day, and Stony Brook’s culminating event: CARD-nival. For these reasons, Natalie Tews exemplifies what it means to be a Teacher Who Makes Magic.

High School Math Teachers at Hillsborough High School
Nominated by school interventionist Stephanie Moore

Hillsborough High School’s Mrs. Elizabeth Berliner has been teaching math for 30 years.

Mrs. Berliner first made a lasting impact in 1996, when she taught a senior who had always struggled with math. She immediately stood out for her ability to make math understandable, fun, and approachable. Under her guidance, this student gained confidence and achieved an A in math for the first time in her high school career. Mrs. Berliner’s patience, encouragement, and dedication go beyond the classroom, leaving a profound and lasting impression.

When that former student became an elementary school teacher, she had the opportunity to thank Mrs. Berliner for the inspiration she had provided.

Nearly 30 years later, her impact extended to the next generation when her former student’s daughter, Lauren, was assigned to her class. Lauren experienced the same guidance, fairness, and confidence-building that her mother had, demonstrating Mrs. Berliner’s remarkable ability to form lasting relationships with students.

For three decades, Mrs. Berliner has been making magic every day, positively shaping generations of students. She has touched the lives of thousands and truly deserves recognition for her extraordinary dedication and influence as an educator. Elizabeth Berliner.

8th-grade math teacher at Soehl Middle School in Linden, New Jersey
Nominated by social studies teacher Michael D’Amato

June has been an educator for 16 years and teaches 8th-grade math at Soehl Middle School in Linden, New Jersey.

June is a constant ray of sunshine, and she is adored by all for her compassion and leadership. She’s an 8th-grade math teacher who recently received one of the highest honors. She was selected to be a “teacher of teachers” at her school when she became part of their Instructional Leadership Team. It’s a small, elite group of teachers who research the latest educational methodologies, then tailor them to their schoolwide data, and present these cutting-edge strategies to their colleagues.

June is also part of her district’s Graduation Appeals Committee, where she works tirelessly with students, which has led to a 30% increase in students passing the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment.

She is a key member of her school’s Attendance Review Team and helped implement the Back-to-School Night Family Engagement Initiative.

She played a central leadership role in earning Apple Distinguished School recognition by leading the preparation of instructional evidence, coordinating staff contributions, and working in partnership with school administration to present the school’s vision and outcomes.

At Soehl Middle School, June offers so many informative and meaningful presentations throughout each school year that her peers often joke that, rather than Ted Talks, they are inspired by their June Talks. June McIntyre, a teacher who makes magic.

6th-grade English Arts teacher at Franklin Middle School at the Hamilton Street campus in Somerset
Nominated by Instructional Coach Deb Cook

Teaching for 20-plus years and is a 6th-grade English Arts teacher at Franklin Middle School at the Hamilton Street campus in Somerset.

Linda is the kind of educator whose impact is felt far beyond her classroom. She holds high expectations for her students while creating a space where they feel supported, valued, and capable of success.

Linda is also a trusted colleague and leader. She generously mentors new teachers and supports the 6th-grade ELA team by sharing what she learns and providing new ideas.

Linda’s dedication extends well beyond academics. She single-handedly launched and maintains the Warrior Garden, writing grants, caring for the space, and using it as a meaningful teaching tool for students. The garden is a source of pride for the school and a powerful way for students to connect to science, responsibility, and the natural world, often through work she completes on her own time.

Linda also brings calm and care to the school community through mindfulness and yoga. She offers this to students and staff, and helps create a more balanced, supportive environment. Known as a steady, calming presence, Her encouragement, compassion, dedication, and quiet leadership make her deeply deserving of recognition as a Teacher Who Makes Magic, Linda Taliercio

Pre-School to 3rd-grade Literacy Coach at Whiton Elementary School
Nominated by Dee Shober, Principal of Whiton Elementary School

Kelly Boyle is a Pre-School to 3rd-grade literacy coach and has been teaching for 20 years.

New Jersey ESP of the Year in 2015, Ms. Boyle brings literacy to life through engaging strategies, thoughtful coaching, and an infectious belief that every student can succeed.

She has served as the lead staff member for the before-and-after school tutoring program for many years, and her commitment extends into the summer, when she develops curriculum for the next year. She regularly attends professional development sessions and trainings and shares new strategies and instructional tools with fellow staff.

Ms. Boyle also serves as an instructor on the Teacher Academy courses and leads the school’s Read Across America Week.

She writes grants to support various programs and initiatives, ensuring that students and families have the necessary resources.

As a coach, Ms. Boyle empowers teachers with practical tools, encouragement, and modeling that elevate instruction and create a ripple effect.

Most importantly, Ms. Boyle leads with her heart. Students feel seen and celebrated, teachers feel valued, and literacy feels joyful rather than intimidating.

This rare combination of skill, passion, and compassion makes Ms. Boyle an extraordinary literacy coach and a true gift to the school community. The magic she creates every day leaves a lasting impact on both students and educators alike.

Physics Teacher at North Brunswick Township High School
Nominated by Bob Goldman, Fellow Teacher

Jim Biolsi is a physics teacher at North Brunswick Township High School, and was nominated by fellow teacher Bob Goldman.

Mr. Biolsi has been teaching physics at North Brunswick since February 1999, and inspiring generations of students with his passion, high expectations, and unwavering dedication to their success.

His impact is extraordinary, most recently demonstrated by the fact that 96% of his AP Physics 1 students earned a score of 3 or higher on the 2025 exam.

Beyond the classroom, Mr. Biolsi has made a lasting mark on the athletic program. He founded both the boys and girls volleyball teams and has been coaching volleyball for over 20 years. He was the GMC Volleyball Coach of the Year in 2010, won the GMC Volleyball Championship in 2017, a Six-time White Division Volleyball Coach of the Year, and the All-time wins leader for both the boys and girls volleyball programs. He is also tied for fifth all-time in wins for the boys varsity soccer program.

Perhaps most impressively, Mr. Biolsi has helped develop student-athletes who succeed at the highest levels. One of his former players, (Toby Ezeonu) became a 1st Team NCAA Division I All-American and is now a professional volleyball player in Europe, and is a member of the USA Men’s National Team.

Jim Biolsi exemplifies what it means to be a teacher who makes magic, an educator, mentor, and coach who changes lives through commitment, leadership, and excellence. His influence will be felt for decades by the students and athletes he has inspired.

8th Grade Special Education Principal at Branchburg Central Middle
Nominated by Beth Stanton, Principal at Branchburg Central Middle School

Nominated by Beth Stanton, Principal at Branchburg Central Middle School, Brian Bodnar is the 8th Grade Special Education Principal at Branchburg Central Middle, where he’s taught for 4 years.

As an 8th-grade special education teacher, Mr. Bodnar brings kindness, compassion, and patience to every interaction. He understands that success looks different for each learner and intentionally meets students where they are, academically, socially, and emotionally, while guiding them with high expectations and genuine care to help them reach their potential.

Mr. Bodnar’s impact extends far beyond instruction in math and language arts. He is deeply committed to developing the whole child, intentionally teaching interpersonal skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning so students can grow into confident, capable, and well-rounded individuals.

In his classroom, students feel valued, understood, and empowered to take ownership of their learning and personal growth. Mr. Bodnar is also a highly respected colleague, consistently supporting all teachers by sharing strategies, problem-solving, and advocacy for students.

Mr. Bodnar’s influence also extends beyond the classroom through his role as a soccer coach. One of his players shared, “Mr. Bodnar has had a huge impact on who I am today. He made me realize that winning isn’t the only thing in life; it’s making family and gathering memories throughout that journey… He made me a better person today than I was before.” Through his compassion, mentorship, and unwavering belief in his students, Mr. Bodnar truly makes magic every day.

Kindergarten teacher at Connerly Road School
Nominated by Math Coach Alexandra Thomas

Congratulations to Khristelle Mae Manuyag, Kindergarten teacher at Connerly Road School in Somerset. Khristelle was nominated by Math Coach Alexandra Thomas.

For over 18 years, Kristelle’s dedication, expertise, and passion have made a profound impact. She provides every learner with the support, tools, and encouragement they need to become lifelong learners.

Khristelle designs highly engaging lessons and creative activities tailored to the diverse learning styles of her students.

Beyond academics, Khristelle excels at building personal connections, including sending home a classroom newsletter that keeps families informed and engaged.

Her involvement in the school community is equally strong; she is a regular contributor to school events, including the annual STEAM Night.

Khristelle is also a respected teacher leader. Her staff presentations deepen the collective understanding of kindergarten curriculum and developmental needs.

She is also a presenter for PD Pathways, supporting educators in designing and implementing a systematic approach to integrating Math Exemplars into the classroom.

Khristelle is a valued member of the Math Leadership Team, strengthening instruction across the school.

Unwavering dedication, exceptional instructional practice, leadership, and commitment, Khristelle Mae Manuyag, Teacher Who Makes Magic, Class of 2026.