Michele Johnson once read that, "Every teacher has that one teacher who went out of their way to make sure that they found their path." For her, that teacher is Mr. Tiernan, her 4th and 5th grade teacher. She strives to help her students find their potential, take risks, make mistakes, overcome obstacles, and find that path just as Mr. Tiernan did for her.

Michele also loves learning from her students each day, particularly these past two years. Each day she is inspired by her students to adjust to new challenges, and especially to just laugh and make the best of every situation. Her favorite moments are when former students reach out and let her know of their successes and achievements.

Michele's teaching career began in New York, then on to California and Michigan. Her journey ended in Wayne, where she finally felt at home. She is in her 25th year in Wayne, all at Schuyler Colfax Middle School. The special education department is by far the best. Her coworkers are supportive and truly her second family. This is her community, her home, where her path led her.

Working as a paraprofessional has inspired Anabella Cogorno to start a new career as an educator. This job gives her the opportunity to make a change in the lives of children she works with. With every group of student Anabella works with, at least one touches her heart and leaves beautiful memories with her each day. Every day is a new day full of adventure. Working as a teacher gives her the ability to spice it up as she works through new units in the curriculum and it gives her the freedom to create lessons that are engaging and effective for her students. This field gives her the possibility to learn something new every day. She is constantly growing and evolving.

Everyone at Wayne Township Public Schools are amazing people; smart, caring, funny, passionate, hardworking and easy to work with. Every teacher inspires her to do her best. These teachers make work a great place to be.