Like all middle school teachers, Nicholas Vigiletti helps shape students during a critical stage in their personal development. The difference being he willingly puts noisemakers into the hands of a classroom full of young adolescents, trapped between childhood and adulthood, and leads them on a mission to come together to produce one cohesive beautiful musical sound. Seems daunting to most, maybe even crazy, but Nicholas thrives on this challenge. He welcomes the opportunity to provide a safe space where mistakes can be made free of judgement and his students can develop as responsible, respectful, accountable individuals and as budding musicians. His daily endeavor is to be a positive role model knowing that only one word or action could have a lasting affect and influence in just one child’s life. The unpredictability of that special moment is what keeps him motivated. When his students realize they are capable of doing difficult things and achieving what they believe to be impossible, the smile on their face and shriek of joy is priceless.

From the moment Nicholas started teaching in the Wayne Township School District, he knew he was fortunate to be following in the path of great band directors that came before him and who laid a solid foundation for the music program. The journey ahead would not be easy. He recognized immediately the district and community wide expectation of success and high standard of excellence. He was ready to face the challenges of upholding those standards while providing numerous opportunities for young musicians. Nicholas is blessed to work every day with dedicated and caring colleagues who continuously nurture and support the academic and musical achievements of each and every student. He especially enjoys the solidarity and collaboration with his long-time fellow music teachers throughout the district from whom he has learned so much. Nicholas is most grateful for the endless support he receives from his administration, without which he would not have the opportunity to be successful. He is proud to be a part of the GW family and to work with an incredible team that makes George Washington Middle School a statewide School to Watch!

It has been said that a library media specialist is a Swiss Army Knife with tools at the ready to help with book selection, technology tips and tricks, and locate the right media to help with any information query. Every move a librarian makes is to help every person in the school. Supplying cameras and equipment for video creations and podcasts, finding research materials for projects, piquing the interests of readers with captivating displays to get readers to explore new authors and ideas. It is being prepared for a new adventure every day, it is cultivating wonder and curiosity, it is showcasing ways to work smarter, not harder, how to make apps and extensions work for the students. Mrs. Weiss sees over a third of the school each day. Teachers signing up for collaborative classes, students come to the media center on their rec time, or groups sign up for programming during GW's period nine time. Mrs. Weiss tries to keep the library dynamic, fresh, and engaging - a place where everyone feels comfortable and inspired. It is evident by her vigilance that Mrs. Weiss loves every part of her role as a School Library Media Specialist.

Being a part of Wayne Township Public Schools is empowering. The district has encouraged Mrs. Weiss and other Library Media Specialists to be a voice in their schools, serving in multiple roles that are carefully curated to suit the needs of each building. Mrs. Weiss is given the tools to help her students and faculty succeed. She is quite proud of her initiative to provide math educators with iPads and Apple Pens to help them reach students using inclusive technology that encourages collaboration. Mrs. Weiss has transformed the physical space of the media center to make a twenty first century learning commons with 3D printers that are constantly running with student-created projects. Her yearly participation in NJ Makers Day has brought STEM learning to each corner of the building and showcases different ways STEM falls into each academic area. Her work on the school's scholastic journalism initiatives, including the yearbook and newspaper, is teaching students to find their voice and showcase abilities in writing, photography, and design. Mrs. Weiss loves that her school is a true learning community with supportive administrators and a faculty and staff that embraces positive energy and encouragement. She is thankful to work with wonderful educators who are willing to try new things and bring out the best in each student.