News

Veteran Staff Advisory Team (VSAT) Strengthens Support and Collaboration Across Mount Olive Schools
Led by Dr. Stephanie Tarnowski, Veteran Educators Build Bridges and Inspire Growth

May, 2025

In the Mount Olive Township School District, the Veteran Staff Advisory Team (VSAT) is making a powerful impact-one rooted in experience, mentorship, and a deep commitment to fostering a supportive school culture. Led by Mount Olive Middle School teacher Dr. Stephanie Brown Tarnowski, VSAT brings together veteran staff with over 20 years of service in Mount Olive to support all staff and administration and strengthen professional collaboration and communication throughout the district.

Formed in 2023, VSAT was created with a clear mission: to harness the knowledge and resilience of veteran staff while providing guidance and encouragement to those just entering the district. The team now includes 56 members across all roles—not just teachers—creating a culture of inclusivity and shared purpose.

At the heart of VSAT’s work is the Marigold Committee, a program that pairs experienced educators with new hires to provide mentorship during their transition. Inspired by the idea of the marigold flower, known for helping nearby plants thrive, veteran staff members act as “Marigolds,” offering advice, answering questions, and building relationships that help new employees feel welcomed and confident, while also building a more unified culture in the district.

VSAT’s work extends beyond one-on-one support. The Districtwide Elementary Articulation Committee, a sub-group within VSAT, is leading efforts to enhance professional development and streamline communication between schools and grade levels. By organizing districtwide grade-level meetings informed by teacher feedback, the committee is helping ensure instructional consistency and alignment across the district. This school year, VSAT led key professional development sessions for elementary teachers, focusing on collaborative planning and timely topics such as curriculum alignment and classroom strategies. These initiatives were designed to empower staff and create a shared vision for teaching and learning across the district.

The group is also a key player in cultivating a strong school culture. From organizing social events like retirement celebrations and dress-down days to offering classroom management tips and communication strategies, VSAT plays a multifaceted role in district life. Their efforts help create a sense of community and build bonds that go beyond the classroom.

Dr. Tarnowski’s leadership is rooted in her academic research and professional experience. Her PhD dissertation examined the professional lives of veteran teachers over three decades, highlighting their enduring commitment and adaptability. VSAT is a direct reflection of her belief in the value of that experience-- and the need to create space for it to be shared and celebrated.

With the slogan “Sharing Wisdom and Growing Together,” VSAT continues to expand its influence. Team-branded t-shirts, pens, tote bags, and magnets are proudly distributed as symbols of unity. New members are welcomed each August, ensuring the group continues to grow in strength and diversity.

As VSAT looks to the future, its members remain focused on their mission-- to uplift one another, build meaningful connections, and support the next generation of Mount Olive educators and staff. Through collaboration, mentorship, and a commitment to excellence, VSAT is making a lasting difference in the lives of staff and students alike.

 

Mount Olive Board of Education Approves Ambitious 2025–2030 Strategic Plan

April, 2025

The Mount Olive Township Board of Education has officially approved the district’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, setting a bold vision for the future of education in Mount Olive. The plan was unanimously adopted at the Board of Education meeting on April 28, 2025, following months of collaborative development that engaged students, families, staff, and community members.

The five-year plan is anchored by Mount Olive’s newly adopted mission statement:
Empowering our school community to succeed in a diverse and dynamic world.

 

The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan focuses on four key areas that will drive the district’s work over the next five years:

🔴 Teaching and Learning
Mount Olive is committed to delivering a rigorous, innovative, and inclusive educational experience. The district will continue to expand authentic learning opportunities, strengthen career pathways, embrace personalized learning, and ensure all students have equitable access to academic success.

🔴 Leadership and Governance
The district will foster strong, effective leadership and governance practices that promote collaboration, transparency, and strategic decision-making. A continued emphasis on developing leadership capacity at all levels will ensure that Mount Olive remains responsive to the needs of its students and community.

🔴 Finance & Facilities
Mount Olive will maintain a sharp focus on financial stewardship and operational excellence. Strategic investments in facilities, technology, and sustainability will ensure that students and staff have access to safe, modern, and future-ready learning environments.

🔴 Community & Wellness
Recognizing that student success is rooted in strong relationships and well-being, Mount Olive will prioritize programs that support mental health, social-emotional learning, family engagement, and a culture of belonging for all members of the school community.

Superintendent Dr. Sumit Bangia emphasized the significance of the new plan, stating:
"The 2025–2030 Strategic Plan is more than just a roadmap -- it is a promise to our students, staff, and families. We are committed to building a future where every learner feels empowered, supported, and inspired to achieve their dreams. This plan reflects the strength of our community and our unwavering dedication to educational excellence."

The strategic plan is designed to be a living document that will guide initiatives, priorities, and decision-making across the district. Progress toward the plan’s goals will be regularly reviewed and shared with the community to ensure transparency and accountability.

View the full 2025–2030 Strategic Plan below:

Mount Olive School District Recognized as the Safest School District in Morris County

April 2nd, 2025

The Mount Olive Township School District has been recognized as the safest school district in Morris County, a testament to its unwavering commitment to student and staff security. With 41 school districts in the county, Mount Olive stands out as a leader in creating a safe and supportive educational environment.

This achievement is the result of dedicated efforts under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Sumit Bangia, with strong collaboration from Director of Security James Carifi, the Board of Education, staff, parents, and the broader school community. Their combined efforts have ensured that safety remains a top priority across the district’s six schools: Sandshore Elementary, Mountain View Elementary, Chester M. Stephens Elementary, Tinc Road School, Mount Olive Middle School, and Mount Olive High School. Serving a student population of 4,789 and employing 1,076 staff members, the district is committed to fostering a secure and enriching learning atmosphere where students can thrive.

Under Dr. Bangia’s leadership since 2022, the district has continuously enhanced its security measures in response to the evolving challenges of school safety. Working closely with Director of Security James Carifi, the district has established a highly trained security team of 21 full-time personnel, including 20 armed retired law enforcement officers. These officers are stationed at every school during operational and evening hours, providing a visible and reassuring presence for students, staff, and visitors.

Security efforts extend beyond regular school hours. Officers monitor district events, recreational programs, and extracurricular activities to ensure safety at all times. Every school, bus, and district facility is equipped with state-of-the-art security cameras and access control systems. Additionally, visitor scanning systems are in place to ensure that only authorized individuals enter school premises. The district also benefits from full-time Mount Olive Police School Resource Officers (SROs) at Mount Olive High School and Mount Olive Middle School, further strengthening the security infrastructure.

To maintain a high standard of preparedness, all security personnel undergo rigorous and ongoing training. This training covers a wide range of topics, including cyberbullying prevention, gang awareness, active shooter response, de-escalation techniques, and student behavior management. Staff members also receive specialized instruction in FERPA regulations, suicide prevention, conflict resolution, AED training, Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM), first aid, and additional topics such as vaping awareness and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. These continuous learning efforts ensure that security personnel are well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise within the school environment.

In April 2024, the district demonstrated its commitment to emergency preparedness by conducting a large-scale reunification drill. Organized by Director Carifi, the drill simulated the safe and efficient reunion of students with their parents following an emergency evacuation. The event involved 200 students, including those from the district’s special education programs, and was observed by 85 officials from schools and law enforcement agencies across New Jersey. The drill showcased the district’s ability to execute a well-organized, effective reunification plan, incorporating emergency services personnel, mental health counselors, first aid responders, and technology staff. Impressively, all 200 students were reunited with their families within just 67 minutes, demonstrating the district’s thorough preparation and efficiency in crisis response.

Mount Olive’s security personnel also participate in annual retraining sessions to stay current with the latest safety protocols. They are equipped with portable radios for immediate communication with local law enforcement and district staff, enhancing coordination and ensuring a rapid response during emergencies.

Through its proactive and comprehensive approach to safety, the Mount Olive School District continues to set the standard for school security in Morris County. This recognition is a direct reflection of the dedication of the Board of Education, district employees, and security staff, all of whom work tirelessly to prioritize the safety and well-being of students. By maintaining a steadfast commitment to security, Mount Olive remains a model for other districts, proving that a safe learning environment is fundamental to academic success and student development.

 

 

 

Mount Olive Township School District Announces 2024-225 Educator of the Year and Educational Services Professional of the Year Winners

December 2024

The Mount Olive Township School District is proud to announce the winners of the 2024-2025 New Jersey Educator of the Year and Educational Services Professional of the Year awards. These awards celebrate outstanding educators and educational service professionals who go above and beyond to inspire their students and contribute to a culture of excellence within our schools.

This year, the district received an impressive number of nominations from every school, showcasing the extraordinary talent and dedication of our staff. Each nominee met rigorous eligibility criteria, including demonstrating exceptional skill, collaboration, leadership, and innovation in education. The selection process was highly competitive, and the district is incredibly proud of all the nominees for their unwavering commitment to their students and school communities.

Without further ado, here are the winners for the 2024-2025 school year:

Mount Olive High School

• Educator of the Year: Ian Redmond, History Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Debbie Protter, School Psychologist 

Mount Olive Middle School

• Educator of the Year: Leigh Yanoso, 8th Grade English Language Arts Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Julie Kester, Guidance Counselor

Chester M. Stephens Elementary School

• Educator of the Year: Dawn Walsh, 2nd Grade Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Journie Cifelli, Interventionist

Mountain View Elementary School

• Educator of the Year: Alexandra Eppinger, 1st Grade Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Kathryn Devins, Guidance Counselor

Sandshore Elementary School

• Educator of the Year: Kimberly Rutzky, 4th Grade Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Shelley Credidio, Interventionist

Tinc Road Elementary School

• Educator of the Year: Mary Hund, 5th Grade Teacher
• Educational Services Professional of the Year: Alina Szast, Guidance Counselor

Celebrating Excellence

Each of these individuals exemplifies the spirit of excellence and leadership that makes Mount Olive Township School District a leader in education. Their dedication to their students and their craft has left an indelible mark on our schools, inspiring learners of all abilities and backgrounds.

MOTSD extends its heartfelt congratulations to the winners and gratitude to all nominees for their hard work and contributions. Together, they represent the very best in education and make our schools a place where students thrive and succeed.

 

Keturah Orji Heading to Paris for Third Olympics

June 27th, 2024

The Mount Olive School District is thrilled to announce that Keturah Orji, a proud Mount Olive alumna, is heading to Paris for her third Olympic Games. The district is incredibly proud of Orji’s achievements and her continued dedication to excellence in athletics.

Orji secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by placing second in the USA Track and Field's triple jump trials held on Saturday night in Eugene, Oregon. Her best jump of 46-8 came in her final attempt, narrowly missing first place by just 1.5 inches to Jasmine Moore.

In the preliminaries on Friday night, Orji's best jump of 45-1½ placed her third heading into the final round. At 28, Orji is the first American woman to make an Olympic triple jump final twice, having competed in both Rio and Tokyo. She finished fourth in 2016, missing a medal by only three centimeters, and placed seventh in Tokyo.

Keturah's remarkable journey in athletics began at Mount Olive High School, where she was the first female athlete to win both the triple and long jumps at the NJSIAA Meet of Champions three years in a row. She went on to make history at the University of Georgia as the first woman to win four NCAA Division I triple jump titles.

Keturah is striving to become the first American woman to win an Olympic triple jump medal. A ten-time United States champion, she has held the American outdoor record (48-11¼) since April 2021 and is currently ranked eighth in the world with a mark of 14.5 meters (47-7) achieved in February.  Keturah is currently training in Atlanta, living with her husband, former Georgia teammate Kisean Smith. She was previously bicoastal, training at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, California, in preparation for the Tokyo Olympics.

The Mount Olive School District celebrates Keturah Orji’s incredible accomplishments and wishes her the best as she competes in Paris. Her dedication and success continue to inspire us all.

Mount Olive Elementary Unified Game Day Promotes Inclusivity and Fun

April 29, 2024

A joyous atmosphere enveloped Sandshore Elementary School as it played host to the Mount Olive Elementary Unified Game Day.  This event marked a significant occasion where all four elementary schools in the district—Mountain View, Sandshore, Tinc, and CMS—came together for a day filled with outdoor games and camaraderie.

Unified Day is an initiative that celebrates inclusivity and fosters meaningful connections among students from diverse backgrounds, including those with special education needs and their peers in general education.  At its core, Unified Day aims to break down barriers, promote understanding, and create a supportive environment where every child feels valued and included.

A variety of outdoor games and activities were organized to encourage teamwork, communication, and most importantly, fun.  From soccer to parachutes, and bowling, there was no shortage of laughter and excitement echoing across the school grounds. Excited staff enthusiastically joined in the festivities, adding to the sense of community spirit.  Students were divided into mixed teams, ensuring that every group was a blend of students from different schools and backgrounds.  This deliberate mixing allowed for natural interactions and friendships to blossom throughout the day.

Students had the opportunity to participate in adapted sports, which not only showcased the athletic abilities of all students but also underscored the importance of acceptance and support for individuals of all abilities.

The spirit of unity and inclusivity was palpable throughout the day, as students cheered on their teammates, high-fived their opponents, and celebrated each other's successes.  By the end of the event, it was clear that Unified Game Day had not only brought students closer together but had also left a lasting impact on the entire Mount Olive community.

As the day's activities came to an end, students reluctantly said their goodbyes, already looking forward to the next Unified Day.  With smiles on their faces and memories to cherish, they left knowing that no matter their differences, they were all part of one unified family.  The program embodies the values of compassion, acceptance, and friendship that lie at the heart of the Mount Olive School District, reminding us all that when we come together as one, anything is possible.

For a glimpse of the magic that unfolded during Mount Olive Elementary Unified Game Day, check out the video highlights below:

 

 

 

 

Mount Olive School District to Celebrate "Choose to Include" Week from March 18th-22nd

Mount Olive, March 2024

The Mount Olive School District is set to observe  "Choose to Include" Week from March 18th to 22nd. This momentous occasion aims to foster a culture of acceptance, reduce the stigma surrounding special education, and promote inclusivity within the school community.

"Choose to Include" week sheds light on the importance of providing a supportive and enriching environment for students with diverse abilities. MOTSD has taken the lead by dedicating an entire week to celebrating inclusion, emphasizing the value of every individual, and fostering a sense of belonging for all.

Every school building within the district is actively participating in a variety of events and activities designed to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive education. From classroom discussions to special assemblies, students and staff alike will engage in conversations that promote understanding, empathy, and acceptance.

The "Choose to Include" week is not only about celebrating diversity but also about addressing and dismantling stereotypes associated with special education. By fostering an environment where differences are celebrated and embraced, all schools working towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate community.

Sharon Staszak, Director of Secondary Special Services, highlighted the significance of this initiative, saying, "Our commitment to inclusion goes beyond just one week; it is a fundamental aspect of our educational philosophy. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to learn and thrive in an environment that recognizes and values their unique strengths."  

In further support of the  District's inclusion week, Director of Elementary Special Services, Debbie Huffman, added: "Inclusion is not just a concept; it's a commitment to recognizing the diverse abilities and strengths that each student brings to our school community. The 'Choose to Include Week' serves as a powerful reminder that by embracing differences, we not only enrich the educational experience for all but also prepare our students to thrive in a world that values diversity and empathy."

To learn more about the events happening throughout the week, please view the information below. The presentation provides an overview of the planned activities and offers valuable insights into the broader goals of inclusive education.

By embracing "Choose to Include" Week, the Mount Olive School District is taking a commendable step towards building a community where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through education, awareness, and collective effort, the district aims to create a lasting impact that extends far beyond this dedicated week, fostering a culture of inclusion that will endure throughout the academic year and beyond.