Woodbrook's Teacher & Educational Services Professional
Woodbrook Elementary School
December 1, 2025
Each year, all schools in New Jersey are invited to nominate and select a Teacher of the Year and an Educational Services Professional of the Year. Our selection process is thoughtful, objective, and often a very difficult decision because we are fortunate to have so many outstanding educators at Woodbrook.
Committee members carefully review an essay submitted by each nominee and use a rubric provided by the New Jersey Department of Education to evaluate instructional practices, impact on students, contributions to the school community, and commitment to professional growth. After much consideration and discussion, Mrs. Tracy Christiani and Mr. Matthew Shaw were selected as this year’s honorees.
Mrs. Christiani is an exceptional classroom teacher who creates a joyful, rigorous, and welcoming learning environment for her third graders. Her creativity, high expectations, and ability to build strong relationships have made her classroom a place where students feel safe, confident, and excited to learn.
Mr. Shaw’s calm, patient, and supportive approach as a Speech Language Specialist helps students develop both communication skills and social confidence. His work with augmentative communication, social-skills instruction, and peer interactions strengthens our entire school community and promotes a culture of inclusion and understanding.
We are incredibly proud of both recipients and grateful for the work they do each day to support the children of Woodbrook. Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Christiani and Mr. Shaw on this well-deserved recognition!
