On Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, several Wildwood educators were honored for their hard work and commitment to students. At its recent meeting, the Wildwood Board of Education recognized them with the School Leader award.
Each year, the School Leader Award showcases creative and effective programs that New Jersey schools are implementing to enhance student achievement. Entries are judged on their level of innovation and how well their programs meet students’ needs, enabling them to achieve their highest potential. This year, the Wildwood Public School District was recognized for its Urban Gardening Program.
What began as a small-scale urban garden designed to teach students in the after-school program about sustainable gardening in an urban setting evolved into a dynamic, schoolwide initiative. The program originated with planter boxes built through a collaboration between the Industrial Arts department and the After-School Program. Since then, Wildwood Public Schools has steadily expanded the garden’s footprint and impact.
John Kenyon Kummings, superintendent of Wildwood Public Schools, spoke fondly about the program and its growth. “This has been a great opportunity to highlight the work of our students and staff within a program that has been growing for over a decade. What began as a simple idea, has grown into a multi-disciplinary program that not only created new engaging and hands-on experiences for our students, but has also begun to impact the local community. We are very proud and lucky to have caring, quality, and committed educators on our staff that are able to take an idea such as this one and see it through to fruition and beyond.”
Below is a listing of the honorees, along with details about their journey into education and what excites them about teaching.
Jennifer Rickert
Jennifer is a Special Education Science Teacher at Wildwood High School. Beginning her career as an environmental scientist, Jennifer realized she wanted to work with children, so she pivoted to education. Initially, as a special education aide, she discovered a passion for teaching challenging populations. While working on her certification, she taught at an alternative school for students with emotional and behavioral needs, and in 2002, joined Wildwood High School, where she has been teaching ever since.
When asked what excites her most about teaching students, Rickert highlighted the experiences that come with the engagement. “Teaching special education can be full of surprises, as no two days are ever the same. Even when lessons don’t go as planned, I love seeing my students laugh, stay engaged, and give their best, all while learning. In my Horticulture elective, it’s especially rewarding to watch students grow vegetables and microgreens—even some they’ve never encountered—taste their harvest, and share their work with the culinary program and other teachers, building both confidence and pride”, said Rickert.
Kelly Franco
Kelly is the Assistant Principal/District Supervisor of Literacy and Data Management at Wildwood Middle School. Earning a degree in Hispanic Studies, Kelly worked at the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, during which she realized her skills and passion would be best utilized within the school system. After earning her teaching certificate, Kelly entered the education field, where she has been for 15 years.
When asked what excites her most about teaching students, Kelly appreciates seeing students grow. “Students provide a unique lens through which to view the world, constantly challenging me to reflect on what I know, what I believe, and how I continue to grow as an educator and learner. Working in a small district and witnessing students’ growth year after year is incredibly rewarding and unlike any other experience. The work we do each day truly matters, and being able to see that impact firsthand, both academically and in students’ social and emotional development, is what makes this profession so meaningful”, said Franco.
Tricia Lemma
Tricia is the Principal of both Wildwood Middle School and Wildwood High School. While she has been in her current role for the past three years, Tricia has spent her entire career, spanning over 25 years, in the Wildwood School District. Tricia was drawn to education by a strong desire and passion for teaching, and by the opportunity to work with young people to foster excitement about learning.
When asked what excites her most about teaching students, Tricia appreciates the opportunity to be impactful. “What continues to excite me most is the ability to make a meaningful impact on students’ educational experiences and to support their growth and success”, said Lemma.
Brendan Schaffer
Brendan is a middle school special education teacher for the Wildwood Public School District. Prior to his current position, he worked as an environmental educator and as the leader of an after-school program. Seeking to help people understand the natural world, Brendan loves teaching others.
When asked what excites him most about teaching students, Brendan enjoys the spark he ignites in his students. “What excites me most about being a teacher is seeing the moment when students grasp concepts and make connections that help them beyond the classroom”, said Schaffer.
The NJSBA congratulates the honorees on their accomplishment.
