Now, just shy of her high school graduation, Valeria is running her own business as a makeup artist/hair stylist while balancing the final months of her senior year. Her schedule is booked with clients almost every day, and her future clientele at events like New York Fashion Week are already reserved months in advance.  

Her story has only begun – and she’s soaring high! Read more about Valeria’s “rise and prime” as we continue spotlighting the amazing stories led by the BBHS Class of 2025. 

How long have you been in the Bound Brook School District and what specifically drew you to the RVCC dual credit program?  

I have been in Bound Brook my whole life. I was raised here and went to school here. I started going to the workforce center during my sophomore year. I was encouraged at that time and had a lot of things going on with family members. I just felt like I didn’t have a purpose. I was introduced to the workforce center, and I met an amazing professor there. Since then, I gained a passion for my work and for making people feel good.  

What do you currently work on? 

Recently, I’ve been working at my shop. I accept clientele and I’ve been booked solid almost every day. It’s such a blessing and my journey here is a learning process. I started with makeup in the Career Technical Education and Work-Based Learning (CTE/WBL) Program and then completed the hairstyling section. Anybody could be doing hair and makeup, but it’s great to have that certification and for the school to give us this opportunity to get ahead and take these classes as young adults is a plus. 

You mentioned a professor at RVCC who inspired you throughout your time in the program. Do you know that professor’s name? 

Yes, her name is Aileen Grignon. She was the teacher, and my current mentor, who taught me everything I needed to know. She took time to show me everything and her talent. She’s an amazing person. If it wasn’t for her, I honestly don’t know what I would be doing.  

How did you learn about the RVCC dual credit program?  

Mr. Ross and I would regularly talk throughout my high school career. The cosmetology program was new at the time, and he asked if I was interested in taking the courses at Raritan Valley Community College. He explained the whole program and I told him to sign me up. He saw something in me, and I was really motivated to do it, and I hadn’t even started yet. So, I feel like he gave me that opportunity to go.  

How was your experience at RVCC? How was the balance between the academics there and at the high school?  

Going to RVCC was a little different during my first and second years because courses took place in the morning and afternoon. However, in my first year going, it was a break from school if that makes sense. But it’s not like you’re going to these classes to get out of school; you’re going there to build your career and future. It’s really up to you if you want to do that. I went into those college courses, and they gave me the motivation to go to school every day because this is what I want, and this is what I want to do.  

Tell us a little bit more about your business, how that started and how it makes you feel accomplished as to what you’ve done so far?  

I first started my business when I was a junior. I was home-based at first so I would go to my client’s house and from that time, I just started building myself up very slowly. I used social media to promote myself, even handing out business cards. I just started getting more into it and then it got to a point where my clientele started booming.  

I love it and now I’m getting the opportunity to work for events like New York Fashion Week. I have many upcoming projects and I’ve even been able to rent a space and take my clientele there now.  

Some of my clienteles are professionals, including lawyers. I meet all these amazing people which motivates me to keep going. I love making people feel good about themselves. With everything going on in the world, I love having the opportunity to talk with my clients and giving them a sense of peace. 

I just love my job. I love what I do. I love making people feel good about themselves. That’s like the number one thing I always thought when I was going to run this business. It’s not about the money, but it’s about what you do and it’s what you love doing.  

I always try to keep my clientele diverse. I love having clients from different cultures and backgrounds.  I can do any type of hair and work with any skin tone. I love having a brand where anybody can come to me and trust that I can do what they’re asking for. I always told myself when I made my brand all about beauty, it was going to be for everybody. No matter their background, everybody is welcome. 

The New York Fashion Week opportunity is incredible as well. How did that reach you?  

Working alongside my mentor, I was emailed by a designer brand named S’vailon. New York Fashion Week takes place in the fall, but they contacted me early and told me that they would love for me to come and do a crew of around eight girls for makeup.  

How have you been balancing your classes and your business?  

It’s been going really well. My senior year has probably been one of the best years in my high school career. I’ve been balancing my career while always putting school before anything else, I love doing this, but I need to make sure I’m focused on completing my work. I’m also a senior, so I have a light schedule and I’ve been receiving straight As.  

Your education should always be number one. In college I would like to study business management and to receive a master’s degree. I have big aspirations and goals for my life, and I’ve only just started. Starting young gives me an advantage. 

What are your post-graduation plans?  

I’m planning to attend Raritan Valley Community College for Business/Entrepreneurship. Mr. Ross has been helping me with all my applications and I’m really looking forward to going there. It’s close and they have a great business program, so I feel like it would fit right for me.  

To find Valeria’s business online, she encourages people to visit her brand’s Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/_.allaboutbeautyv_/ 

Revise la carta adjunta sobre la Evaluación del aprendizaje de los estudiantes de Nueva Jersey.

• NJSLA Testing Letter – English
• NJSLA Testing Letter – Spanish

Her passion for providing personal and professional development opportunities for herself, students, and colleagues stems from overcoming one of the biggest challenges in her career – following your heart!

The Bound Brook School District continues to spotlight our talented alumni, who have excelled and broken barriers to become professionals in their field of studies.

Get to know more about Dr. Suk:

What do you currently do (your career/college path)?

I decided to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching after graduating from Rider University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1996. Life took some turns prompting me to explore other avenues to pursue professional licensure. In 1998, I entered the Alternate Route to Teaching Program and later completed a Master of Education in Instruction from The College of New Jersey. I went on to earn a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Stockton University in 2019.

Between 1998 and 2008, I served two public school districts. I taught middle school math and Spanish for one year and fourth grade for nine years. I hold certificates as both an Elementary Classroom Teacher and a Supervisor of Instruction.  Currently, I am a professor at Raritan Valley Community College, where I have been teaching preservice teachers for 17 years.

How did Bound Brook prepare you for your future?

Although I was a strong student, a varsity athlete and cheerleader, and an officer of multiple Honor Societies and clubs, I was the victim of constant bullying. I learned strength of character is essential, and no matter the obstacle, I had to remain true to myself. That commitment to authenticity and integrity has served me well, and I make every effort to foster the same qualities in my son and my students for their futures.

Did any teachers or staff mentor you along that path? 

Many of the influential educators during my time in the Bound Brook School District are no longer with the district, have retired, or have passed on. It is difficult to select which were the most instrumental or impactful along my journey. There are too many to name; some had a positive influence on me as a student, while others guided me as an educator. There were happy and challenging moments with them; each experiencing playing a role in shaping the person I am today. I am grateful to have shared those experiences with them.

What was your most memorable moment at Bound Brook? 

There are so many memories to choose from, it is next to impossible to select one. I do believe, however, that the times that I’ve gotten to speak about my pride in our town resonate with me the most. I did so at a Board of Education meeting during high school. And just recently, I did so at Smalley School’s Multicultural Night two years ago and at an Alumni Panel at Bound Brook High School a few months ago.  We, the Crusaders, are often discounted as underdogs because of where we live and where we’ve come from; however, our story is so rich and so diverse because of our histories.  This is what makes us small but mighty and I don’t want anyone to forget it ever!

What advice would you give Bound Brook students looking to enter that career?

Teaching is one of the most noble professions and one of the most challenging and rewarding careers you can select. As members of the Bound Brook School Community, you know that the diversity of our student population does not match the diversity of the educator population. We need more representation in the Teaching profession. We need more males, and we need more Black and Latinx educators in our nation’s classrooms. We can all name one or more than one teacher who positively impacted our lives; don’t you want to be that same influence in someone else’s life someday?

Please consider pursuing a career in Education, and if you have any questions, reach out! I’m happy to help you to navigate this career path as the journey to licensure may look different for each of you.

What is a challenge or obstacle that you overcame and are proud of regarding your career?

The greatest challenge I have overcome in my career was being able to follow my heart! When I went to my high school guidance counselor to tell him I wanted to be a bilingual guidance counselor, he lost his mind. He screamed, “You’re too smart for Education!” I entered college to study accounting, and I was miserable. When I finally did what I felt called to do, I never looked back. I am so grateful for all I have accomplished as an educator, but most importantly, I am so incredibly proud of all my students have accomplished. They, and my son, are my legacy; I could not be prouder of all of them!

What are some future goals or aspirations that you have for your own career?

I have been teaching for 27 years.  My role in the classroom and the profession continues to evolve. Right now, I aspire to bring the Alternate Route to teaching program to Raritan Valley Community College.  Further, I am collaborating with other community college colleagues to develop a pathway for paraprofessionals to pursue teaching credentials, as well.  I want to ensure that the teacher pipeline is filled with passionate, qualified, community-oriented professionals who can serve their students and communities with pride, intelligence, and honor.

Dr. Suk encourages any student who may be interested in these programs or looking to learn more about pursuing Education as a career to reach out at 908-526-1200 x8983 or kathryn.suk@raritanval.edu.

After graduating from the district in 2014, he has followed his dreams and started his journey to positively influence public health in the pharmaceutical industry. 

The Bound Brook School District continues a new spotlight series on our talented alumni, who have excelled and broken barriers to become professionals in their field of studies.  

Get to know more about Allamar:  

What do you currently do (your career/college path)? 

After graduating from Bound Brook, I attended Rowan University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Neuroscience. During my time at Rowan, I joined Dr. Thomas Keck’s research lab, where I focused on identifying potential solutions to the opioid epidemic, sparking my interest in research.  

Upon completing my degree, I joined Dr. Eliot Gardner’s lab for a postbaccalaureate fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), where I worked for two years. My research in neuropsychopharmacology aimed to identify potential solutions to combat various drugs of abuse through preclinical methods.  

This public health-centered research ignited a desire to pursue a career with a more patient centered focus on health outcomes, which led me to the University of California, San Diego, to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD). While earning my degree, I completed an internship at Johns Hopkins University focusing on hospital administration. This experience demonstrated the wide-reaching impact I could have on patient care through my degree, even away from the bedside.  

To further explore opportunities to positively influence public health, I entered a post-doctoral fellowship with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE). In this role, I focused on revising the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) guidance.  

These experiences, coupled with the guidance of numerous mentors, have shaped my passion for my current role as I embark on a career in the pharmaceutical industry. I am now working as a Clinical Scientist through a fellowship with Northeastern University and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, with a focus on bringing medications to patients with unmet needs.  

How did Bound Brook prepare you for your future?  

During my time at Bound Brook, I actively engaged in a variety of activities that helped shape my personal and academic growth. I developed a sense of altruism through my involvement in Peer Leadership and the Interact Club, under the guidance of Ms. Pennacchio and Mr. Papanicolopoulos. I gained valuable lessons in teamwork and healthy competition as a member of the soccer, track, and basketball teams. My passion for STEM was solidified through my participation in the robotics team and discussions with Mr. Borysyuk. My involvement in AP Literature and the Poetry Club strengthened my vocabulary, while the Chess Club helped me develop strategic thinking.  

The diverse experiences and insights shared by my teachers broadened my perspective. I am grateful for the lasting friendships I formed at Bound Brook, which have shaped my understanding of true friendship. Ultimately, Bound Brook provided me with a strong foundation, teaching me the importance of pursuing education and striving to become the best version of myself.  

Did any teachers or staff mentor you along that path?  

There were a lot of teachers and staff mentors throughout my Journey: Mrs. Quinn, Mrs. Hendershot, Mrs. Musso, Ms. Post, Ms. Smith, Mr. Romancheck, Mr. Paxon, Edward Gordon, Ms. Monaghan, Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Wenger, Mr. B, Ms. P, Mr. P, Ms. Hayes – there are many more to name…I am forever grateful to Bound Brook for providing a community of teachers who were genuinely invested in the future of their students.  

What was your most memorable moment at Bound Brook?  

One of my memorable moments was attending our school basketball games. The gym was packed to capacity, with our amazing mascot energizing the crowd and our talented basketball team putting on exciting performances. The atmosphere was so electric and loud, it felt like we were at a Big Ten college game!  

What advice would you give Bound Brook students looking to enter that career?  

My advice would be to ask questions! One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey is that most people genuinely enjoy helping students. Be bold, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to talk to new people. One of the best skills you can develop is the ability to engage confidently with others. A helpful tip: approach everyone with genuine curiosity, stay open minded, but protect your peace and energy.  

What is a challenge or obstacle that you overcame and are proud of regarding your career?  

My career has not been a straightforward path, and I have faced numerous obstacles and challenges along the way, including grief, isolation, financial struggles, etc. One pivotal moment occurred in college when an academic counselor suggested I change my major away from science after receiving a “C” in Chemistry I and saying that the field was not suited for me. Thanks to the confidence my family and Bound Brook instilled in me, I was able to disregard this advice, request a new academic counselor (who was incredibly supportive), and continue my path. I persevered toward my goals, and nearly eight years later, I reflect on my journey as an evolving scientist with gratitude and pride.  

What are some future goals or aspirations that you have for your own career?  

My future goals include expanding my knowledge and responsibilities within the clinical science field, pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and continuing to mentor individuals who seek guidance and support. I am all for personal growth and helping others achieve their full potential. 

Now, Maria is marching toward fulfilling her ultimate goal: becoming a licensed attorney.   

The Bound Brook School District is excited to launch a new spotlight series on our talented alumni, who have excelled and broken barriers to become professionals in their field of studies.  

Get to know more about Maria: 

What is your career/college path?   

My current role is at Horizon BCBS as a Paralegal in the Government Programs Legal Department. I obtained my Associates in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies from Raritan Valley Community College. Through my educational and practical experience, I was able to receive an offer of employment. This is particularly exciting for me, as I am currently enrolled at Rutgers in the Bloustein Public Policy program and wanted to find a career within the healthcare industry. 

How did Bound Brook prepare you for your future?   

Bound Brook is so diverse that it allowed me to be confident with my own diversity. As a Costa Rican native, I always felt like I fit in with my peers. 

Did any teachers or staff mentor you along that path?   

I love world languages, so naturally, my language class was my favorite class. I would like to recognize Mr. Abd for always making French class fun and interactive. To this day, I still practice my French and look for moments to connect with the culture. 

What was your most memorable moment at Bound Brook?   

I have many fond memories at the school, one of my favorites would have to be the Girls Senior v. Juniors flag football game. It was intense but fun, and of course my Senior class won that year! 

What advice would you give Bound Brook students looking to enter that career?  

My advice would be to take some legal classes at Raritan Valley and see if anything strikes your interest. The legal classes at RV are taught by attorneys who have ample experience in the field, and therefore offer keen insight into what it is like to work within the legal field. 

What are some future goals or aspirations that you have for your own career?  

My ultimate goal is to obtain my Juris Doctorate and become a licensed attorney. I still have a long road ahead of me, but with patience and discipline anything is attainable. 

Each year, New Jersey school districts nominate their educators for the prestigious Governor’s Educator of the Year Award through the New Jersey Department of Education. The program seeks to recognize educators “who have gone above and beyond in their service to New Jersey’s students” and to create a culture that recognizes excellence and brings public attention to the work of outstanding educators.

“On behalf of the district and Board of Education, I want to say, ‘congratulations’ and ‘thank you’ to the 10 teachers and educational services professionals who were recognized through the program,” said Superintendent Alvin Freeman, Ed.D. “Their hard work and dedication to student success is what makes Bound Brook School District and its students bound for greatness.”

The Governor’s Educator of the Year recipients are:

Teachers:

Samantha Melesurgo, LaMonte/LaMonte Annex Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Stephanie Ackley, Lafayette Elementary Art Teacher

Gina Petrusky, Smalley Elementary Gifted and Talented Program Instructor

Kim Kredatus, Community Middle School Science Teacher

Joelle Smith, Bound Brook High School Mathematics Teacher

Educational Services Professionals:

Alma Pena, LaMonte/LaMonte Annex Teacher Assistant

Renee Jacobs-Grauer, Lafayette Elementary Speech Therapist

Lee Eaton, Smalley Elementary School Counselor

Genesis Picado, Community Middle School Teacher Assistant

Deborah Paulsen, Bound Brook High School Student Assistance Counselor

“We are incredibly honored to continue growing our relationship with Rutgers University and to streamline the path for classroom aides and paraprofessionals in Bound Brook to earn their teaching certificates,” said Superintendent Dr. Alvin Freeman. “Bound Brook’s educational support professionals already contribute so much to our schools and students, and this grant provides them with the financial support and mentorship to advance their careers as educators.” 

The state DOE awarded Ramapo College and Rutgers University in New Brunswick $400,000 each to partner with eight school districts. Funding will be used to offset the costs associated with tuition, books and materials, mentorships, and structured on-the-job training. 

Chief Academic Officer Robyn Griffin said this opportunity is important to BBSD as schools across the state and country look for ways to recruit and retain K-12 teachers amid shortages. The program came from recommendations of the Task Force on Public School Staff Shortages in New Jersey. 

“We hope that one of the outcomes of this program will be a stronger and more diversified teaching staff in BBSD,” Griffin said. “Not everyone follows a traditional path to become a teacher, so this program provides the support and mentorship for our classroom aides and paraprofessionals to become teachers and play an even greater role in the lives of Bound Brook students.” 

Paraprofessionals in the program can typically earn their state teaching certification in two to four years, depending on their level of experience and education when beginning the program. The program targets fields disproportionately impacted by staff shortages, such as special education, science, math, English as a second language, and bilingual education.  

“We are excited to begin this work and to continue growing our relationship with Rutgers,” Griffin said. “This program stands to benefit many paraprofessionals and classroom aides in Bound Brook.” 

BBHS Principal Edward Smith led the ceremony and reflected on the obstacles students overcame to achieve their goals. He thanked the parents and families whose support undoubtedly contributed to their success. “It has been an honor and a privilege watching them grow, mature, progress, and succeed,” he said.

Senior Sherlyn Herrera Perez delivered the welcome address, followed by the salutatorian Armaan Singh, valedictorian Gabriella Silva, and senior Allyn Cardenas. Weathering wildfires to a worldwide pandemic, these students proved their prowess, which were themes of the speeches from the newly minted alumni.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alvin L. Freeman congratulated students and reminded them of the Bound Brook School District motto to go forth and serve.

“Carry with you the kindness, perseverance, and strong character that you have cultivated here. Use these characteristics to light your path and to inspire those around you. By doing so, you will not only enrich your life but also create a better world for everyone. The future is bright and yours for the taking,” said Dr. Freeman.

Kerry Malpartida led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance. A series of musical performances rounded out the ceremony including the “Star Spangled Banner,” sung by Mia Hutchins, as well as BBHS’s alma mater led by Josiah Addo Nartey, Kevin Cruz, Joseph Angel, Emily Samaniego, Dennis Barone, and Mia Hutchins.

Mr. Smith congratulated retirees and thanked Bound Brook School District teachers, the administrative team, and staff for their contributions and unwavering dedication to the graduating students.

As the Class of 2024 moves forward on their next path, whether in college, the military, or the workforce, we hope they bring the tools and remember the relationships built inside these classrooms. Best of luck, Crusaders!

Click on the image to view it larger. 

Grades 7-8:

• Incoming 7th Grade Math Summer Assignment
• (Spanish) Incoming 7th Grade Math Summer Assignment
• Incoming 7th Grade H Math Summer Assignment
• Incoming 8th Grade Summer Assignment

Grades 9-12:

• Incoming Algebra 1 Summer Assignment
• Incoming Algebra 2 Summer Assignment
• Incoming Pre-Calculus Summer Assignment
• Incoming AP Calculus Summer Assignment
• Incoming Geometry Summer Assignment