Every year, teachers and educational professionals from each Freehold Regional High School District school are selected to be honored in the Monmouth County Governor's Educator of the Year Program. We are recognizing each of the 2022-2023 recipients in a Staff Spotlight series. This week, we are highlighting Amanda Carrione, a science teacher at Marlboro High School. 

Ms. Carrione has been a teacher in the Freehold Regional High School District for the last 11 years. She has taught all levels of Freshman Biology, Lab Forensic Science, Lab Marine Science, AP Biology, and Honors Anatomy and Physiology. In addition to her teaching, Ms. Carrione has worked on multiple curricula writing committees, including Biology, Honors Anatomy and Physiology, and AP Biology, which she is currently writing. She has also served as an advisor for the Asian Club, as well as the Donate Life Club for several years. Ms. Carrione also served as a member/lead of the ScIP Team for six years.  

"I was flattered and honored to be named Teacher of the Year at Marlboro. The community of teachers I have the privilege to work with are some of the finest educators I know. I am humbled to work alongside them and learn from them each and every year. I am additionally honored to be carrying the torch of excellence for the science department in the same way that Denise O’Larte has – who has been a mentor to me from when I first started here," Ms. Carrione said.

Her proudest accomplishment includes her work on the curricula writing committees, specifically Honors Anatomy and Physiology. Having had a background in early PT studies, Ms. Carrione always dreamed of teaching an anatomy course. 

"It has since become a dream realized, as I worked with a number of incredible teachers to build the course – writing the curriculum and crafting units, lessons, and artifacts alongside them – to support our students in achieving those standards. Working with others from all corners of our district always leaves me feeling inspired," Ms. Carrione described. 

When asked what advice she would offer someone new to the field of education, Ms. Carrione said it is to have patience.

"Patience not only with others or the current circumstances (which are ever-changing) but patience with yourself. It is likely anyone entering education comes to this profession for the students, to be there for them, to support them, to watch them grow as you challenge them and as you challenge yourself. That is what is most important. Growth does not often happen quickly, so treat yourself and others with patience," she noted.