BOE awards two with the Governor’s Teacher Recognition

BYRAM — The Byram Township Board of Education has officially acknowledged Michael Kulesa, Byram Lakes Elementary School physical education teacher, and Brian Hamer, Byram Intermediate School eighth grade language arts teacher, as the district’s recipients of the Governor’s Teacher Recognition Award.

A panel of parents, teachers, and administrators selected the teachers.

In making their selection, the panel identified Kulesa and Hamer as educators who inspire and influence their students to learn.

They are collaborative educators who have also developed positive relationships with their fellow staff members, students, parents, as well as administrators.

Kulesa graduated from the College of New Jersey in 2006. During his seven years with the Byram Township School District, Kulesa developed programs and events to further develop the physical education program at Byram Lakes Elementary School.

He, along with colleagues, organized and implemented a Jump Rope for Heart event, as well as being an integral part in developing the Fit Club, an after-school fitness program making physical fitness a year-long goal for the students in grades one through four.

Hamer graduated from the College of New Jersey in 2008. As a master teacher,

Hamer inspires his students to develop a love for literature and writing. He creates dynamic and engaging lessons that challenge his students to think deeply, effectively communicate their thoughts and engage in Socratic exchange. His passion is evident both in and outside of the classroom, as he embraces leadership challenges that support a student-centered learning environment.

The board of education will honor Kulesa and Hamer, as recipients of this award, at the May 22 board meeting. The meeting is open to the public and will start at 7:30 p.m.

On May 23, along with other GTRP recipients from Sussex County, Kulesa and Hamer will attend a convocation ceremony at the Lafayette House where they will be presented a plaque.