Educational Professional of the Year

This year, we are proud to celebrate Mrs. Baumgartner as the Educational Professional of the Year for Tinc Road Elementary School, a well-deserved honor for someone whose warmth, expertise, and deep commitment to students make her an essential part of our school community. Her journey into education began after graduating from High Point High School and continuing on to Bloomsburg University, where she earned her degree in Elementary Education. She later completed a master’s degree in Literacy and became a certified Reading Specialist—training that shines through daily in her work.

Now in her fourteenth year of teaching, Mrs. Baumgartner has taught a wide range of grade levels and supported hundreds of students. She spent eleven years in West Milford teaching kindergarten and second grade before joining Mount Olive. She taught first grade for one year at Tinc, prior to becoming one of our Reading Specialists, a role she loves and excels in.

Her choice to become a teacher grew naturally from her love of working with children and the powerful influence of the teachers she had growing up. Those role models inspired her to create the same supportive, encouraging environment for her own students.

When asked about her favorite part of teaching, Mrs. Baumgartner immediately thinks of her students—their growth, their laughter, and those unforgettable “lightbulb moments” when everything suddenly makes sense. As a Reading Specialist, she especially cherishes the moment a child realizes they can read independently for the first time. She describes it as truly magical.

She has countless meaningful memories from her years in education, from former students returning to visit her to major reading breakthroughs. One standout memory occurred during a visit from Creature Comfort therapy dogs. A student walked right in, sat beside one of the dogs, and read an entire book independently for the very first time. Seeing that child feel safe, confident, and proud is a moment she will never forget.

Outside of school, she enjoys a busy family life. She lives in Sparta with her husband, Lance, and their children—Carter, Reegan, and Everett. Together, they love watching sports, spending time at the beach in Lavallette, enjoying summer days by the pool, and having family game nights. She also loves reading and making memories with her kids.

We are thrilled to honor Mrs. Baumgartner as the Educational Professional of the Year. Her dedication and genuine love for her students enrich Tinc Road Elementary School each and every day.