Maureen Kelly, the 2024 NJEA State ESP of the Year, has been nominated for the 2025 RISE Award. Kelly is a dedicated paraprofessional at Watchung Hills Regional High School, where she supports students with special needs, manages Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and assists in both resource room and inclusion settings. In addition, she leads the Guided Study Program, which she expanded into a full-sized class, organizing tutoring and further enhancing student support.
The RISE Award, established by the Recognizing Achievement in Classified School Employees Act (Public Law No. 116-13), honors classified school employees at the national level who provide exemplary service to students. This prestigious recognition highlights those in various educational roles, such as paraprofessionals, clerical staff, transportation workers, food services, custodians, security, health and student services, and technical staff.
Kelly’s nomination for this award is a testament to her dedication and contributions to the school community. Her continued efforts serve as a reminder of what it means to go above and beyond in service to students, and this nomination recognition will undoubtedly inspire her future endeavors.
Each year, the U.S. Department of Education invites state governors and designated officials to nominate up to two classified school employees. NJEA submitted Kelly for the 2025 RISE Award, following the previous submissions of the New Jersey State ESPs of the Year in 2024, 2023 and 2022.
For 2025, James Green, a School Police Officer at Broad Street Elementary School in Butler, Pennsylvania, was named the RISE Award recipient. The award process involves a peer review of nominations from across the nation, with finalists selected for their exemplary work in areas such as work performance, school and community involvement, leadership, and local support.
We are proud to celebrate Kelly’s achievements and wish her continued success in all her future endeavors. Her nomination is a reflection of her deep commitment to her students and the educational community.