The Borough of Red Bank Public Schools recently announced its list of district educators honored by the state Department of Education with its Governor’s Educator of the Year and Exemplary Elementary Educators awards. The following info and profile of each honoree was provided by the district:
Mrs. Niki Cummins is the 2024 Governor’s Educator of the Year recipient for Red Bank Primary School. Mrs. Cummins has a superior ability to inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn. She actively works to create an inclusive and engaging classroom where all students feel comfortable to explore and share their ideas with others.
Mrs. Cummins uses a variety of teaching strategies to ensure that all students, regardless of their learning style or background, have the ability to engage in the material presented to them. Mrs. Cummins also plays an active and impactful role in the community and school.
She currently serves as the DREAM Team chairperson, is involved in curriculum development and routinely hosts novice teachers. As a result, her contributions to our school district and community exceed well beyond the walls of her classroom.
Mrs. Samanth Arauz is the 2024 Governor’s Educator of the Year for the Red Bank Middle School. She has a deep knowledge of curriculum
development, pedagogy and is exceptionally skilled at designing lessons that differentiate to meet the needs of all learners.
Mrs. Arauz engages students in dynamic ways, utilizing technology, hands-on activities, or project-based learning while implementing new teaching methods to promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
She brings joy and inspiration to her students as they are excited about coming to school and enthusiastic about learning new concepts.
She is not only a leader in her classroom, but in creating a positive culture amongst staff as she is the co-chair of the Sunshine Committee, an active member of the district’s education association and the friendly voice you hear during afternoon bus announcements.
The 2024 Educational Services Professional for the Red Bank Borough Public School District is Primary School Instructional Assistant Mrs. Paula Collins. 
Mrs. Collins has over 16 years of experience in the District and in that time has provided students and staff with memorable events and has dedicated much of her time building lasting relationships.
Her ability to build close, meaningful relationships with every student is a testament to her commitment to fostering connections that drive her instruction. Mrs. Collins takes the time to understand each student’s interests and meets them at their level, ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Collins has been a driving force behind the RBPS PTO. From Halloween to Winter Festival to International Night, Mrs. Collins works tirelessly to ensure the planning and execution of these events. Through “Kids Care Club”, Mrs. Collins teaches valuable life skills which encourage volunteerism and leadership among her students.
In addition to these honors, we also received more exciting news from the NJDOE – two of our staff members were recognized as 2024 Exemplary Elementary Educators. This year’s recipients include Primary School Teacher Beth Moran and Middle School Teacher Christina Grimaldi. 
Every other year, the New Jersey Department of Education recognizes outstanding educators throughout the state with the Exemplary Elementary Educator Award.
Through a rigorous selection process, the program identifies educators who are valued by their school and community and have exhibited strong knowledge and skills, an inspiring presence, and a clear vision for quality teaching and learning.
Currently an English as a Second Language Teacher, Mrs. Beth Moran (pictured at right) has served our community in multiple teaching roles during her 30+ years with the District.
She is creative, patient, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure that all of her students are meaningfully engaged and happy. Mrs. Moran has inspired her students of varying abilities and backgrounds. She possesses a level of dedication and eagerness consistent with the characteristics you would expect from an exemplary educator. Mrs. Moran has made impressive connections and built positive relationships with her students so each child is motivated to work beyond their potential – she is their biggest advocate and cheerleader! She is also the consummate professional, serving as a mentor for new teachers and cooperating teacher for student teachers. Mrs. Moran has been an active presence in the school community for many years through her attendance at events and her work with the PTO. Affectionately known as “the cotton candy lady”, Mrs. Moran is present at every PTO event, working many hours in advance with her colleagues to prepare. She has also served on the local education association for many years, including the PRIDE Chair to support family engagement with the school community. Mrs. Moran has proven repeatedly that she is a true teacher leader who can successfully take on and lead any initiative that she sets her mind to.
Our second Exemplary Educator, Miss Christina Grimaldi, (pictured at right) is a Grade 4 Teacher at Red Bank Middle School.
Miss Grimaldi sets a high standard for excellence in the field of education, inspiring her peers and shaping the future of the profession.
She epitomizes exceptional educational talent through her exemplary instructional practices and the outstanding results she achieves in her classroom and school. Through her collaborative spirit and commitment to mentorship, she has forged positive relationships with her colleagues, embodying the principles of teamwork and mutual support.
Miss Grimaldi’s leadership shines through her involvement in various committees and initiatives, from organizing Back to School Night presentations and field trips to spearheading fundraisers like “Treats for Troops” and volunteering for events such as Rocket Fest.
Her engaging and inspiring presence leaves a profound impact on students, colleagues, and the wider community, driving higher levels of performance among her students. Through her commitment to differentiated instruction tailored to individual student needs, she ensures that every student receives the support and resources necessary to excel academically.
With her dedication to student-centered teaching, ongoing assessment, and collaborative teamwork, Miss Grimaldi not only motivates and inspires her students but also empowers them to perform at their highest levels.
We are proud of our staff for so many reasons, but especially for striving to be the best in America so that we can rest assured we are the best for Red Bank. Our educators, including the 2021-2022 Monmouth County Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Alyssa Geary, exemplify that mindset by continuing to inspire our students to Dream BIG and then helping them get there. Visit our website www.rbb.k12.nj.us for more information.
