Excellence in Education Award

Stacey O'Connor is a music fan as well as a music teacher. Her ability to use the art in teaching her first-grade classes has earned her the 2015 "Excellence in Education" Award, bestowed on the Manchester Township Elementary first-grade teacher by lawmakers in the shore's 10th Legislative District.

Who's out front among the shore's most inspiring and creative teachers? Look no further than Wendy Kachoogian, third-grade educator at Lanes Mill Elementary in Brick Township.

Raymond Roe's unwavering commitment to his Toms River students earns him special recognition.