The New Jersey School Boards Association recognized a select group of school staff members during its Annual Workshop held in October 2025 in Atlantic City. The third annual “Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards” ceremony honored individuals working in New Jersey’s pre-K–12 public education system before a statewide audience.
The awardees were nominated for their consistent, behind-the-scenes efforts and often carried out without public recognition to help ensure schools across New Jersey operate smoothly and effectively. Their contributions play a vital role in creating safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environments for students, while also assisting teachers, staff and administrators.
The Association’s online weekly newsletter, School Board Notes, recognizes each recipient with a spotlight for their work. This week, we are highlighting Leo Foy, a crossing guard for Hamilton School District in Mercer County.
For the past 15 years, Foy has worked as crossing guard for the Morgan Elementary School. Prior to that, he worked in the facilities department for the former McCorristin Catholic High School in Hamilton years ago.
“He loves being around people and helping everyone. My father likes working and it gives him a purpose. It makes him get up in the morning, and he walks to work and walks home or rides his bike,” said Ruth Wells, his daughter. “It gives him a reason to exercise and take care of himself.”
Foy, who grew up in Wilkes Barre, Pa., said he has made an impact in his role by showing up for work every school day and talking with parents and their children, making him feel like an integral part of the local community.
“I would hope that my lasting legacy would be that I was kind and generous and hard-working,” said Foy, who has lived in Mercerville for the past 50 years. “I always have a smile on my face and talk to everyone that came in contact with me.”
The NJSBA congratulates Leo Foy on being awarded for this notable achievement!
Nominations for the 2026 Unsung Superheroes in Education Awards are open! To shine a light on your district’s own superhero, please complete a nomination form and submit it by Tuesday, June 30, 2026. All winners will be recognized at NJSBA’s Workshop slated for Oct. 19 to 22 at the Atlantic City Convention Center.
