KHS saw its fair share of beloved teachers leave this year, but luckily more teachers have come to take their places. We interviewed them to see how they feel about coming to work at KHS. 

Mrs. Marsh (Dental Assisting)

How did you hear about job openings in Kearny?

I have a friend who is a superintendent and he passed along the information to me.

What were you doing before you got your job here? 

Before I came to Kearny I had taken some time off, but prior to that I taught Dental Hygiene and a Dental Materials class at Middlesex County College, wrote a curriculum to open a dental assisting school, and assisted in the design of the school and the clinic.

Did you have any hopes, worries, or expectations going into the new school year? 

I hope to engage and excite my students by bringing my love and passion for my chosen profession to the classroom. 

How are you liking KHS so far?

So far I am really enjoying my position at KHS.

Mrs. Barbagallo (English)

How did you hear about job openings in Kearny?

I found out about the opening while I searched online for a permanent teaching position. 

What were you doing before you got your job here? 

I taught middle school in Ramsey, NJ. I taught an elective class called Multimedia Production. 

Did you have any hopes, worries, or expectations going into the new school year? 

I was a little nervous to teach in high school because it’s new for me. 

How are you liking KHS so far?

I ended up loving it and I feel so at home!

Mr. Leone (School Counseling)

How did you hear about job openings in Kearny?

I heard about the Kearny position from checking the Applitrack website and the Kearny job posting every day. I have two family friends that have been working in the district for many years and always told me how great it is. When I saw the position posting for the high school guidance position opening I applied right away.

What were you doing before you got your job here? 

Before KHS, I was a school counselor at Clifton High School.

Did you have any hopes, worries, or expectations going into the new school year? 

Going into the new school year I was excited and anxious at the same time. Being that many schools were virtual for so long I knew it would be a tough transition but also a rewarding one. 

How are you liking KHS so far?

I love KHS so far! The students and faculty are very warm and enthusiastic. I am happy how fast I built rapport with so many great students and people in the KHS community.

Ms. Murray (SBYS Secretary)

How did you hear about job openings in Kearny?

Found out about the position on the Kearny Schools website.

What were you doing before you got your job here?

My last position was Office Manager for a florist that produced and executed weddings and events, as well as traditional flower deliveries. 

Did you have any hopes, worries, or expectations going into the new school year? 

My hope and worry was that students and faculty would be able to complete the school year in person without interruption of having to go virtual due to COVID-19.   My expectations are that the Board and Administration would make the appropriate decisions for the students and faculty should there be any health concerns.

How are you liking KHS so far?

I am very happy with my experience so far.  The faculty from the High School and Central Office has been very helpful and accommodating with any questions or concerns I have had and the team I work with is fantastic! 

Ms. Narvaez (History)

How did you hear about job openings in Kearny?

I live in town and I have 2 kids that attend Schuyler School. During hybrid learning, their teachers asked if I knew of any substitutes as there was a shortage due to COVID. As I was staying home due to COVID, I searched for the available openings and offered my services. 

What were you doing before you got your job here? 

I was working remotely as Operations Assistant Office Manager at a Water Utility.  

Did you have any hopes, worries, or expectations going into the new school year? 

My hope was that we would have a successful school year and that everyone would enjoy being back in school.  

How are you liking KHS so far?

It is going great so far, the teachers and administration are really supportive. The students are great!