Union City High School is proud to announce our Governor Educator of the Year - Mrs. Cristen Pennello, Dance Instructor. Cristen is a tremendous Performing Arts educator who has been the pioneer to our UCHS dance program. Each year, she works with her colleagues to help coordinate a variety of student performances for the school and our community at large. In 2013, Cristen launched our the state's initial NJ Dance Festival here at Union City High School. Annually, Mrs. Pennello hosts this festival so that dance programs from all over the state can collaborate and share ideas with the goal to bring awareness to the dance community. We are honored and privileged to have Cristen influence, guide and mentor our students here at UCHS!
Union City High School is also delighted to select Joel Roca-Ortiz as our Educational Service Professional of the Year. Joel Roca-Ortiz has demonstrated a love for his profession and a commitment to the school and community. He has an incredible work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to this school. During the pandemic, Nurse Roca-Oritz volunteered numerous hours assisting with vaccinating people in the community. He goes above and beyond for our students. Joel comes to work with a smile on his face and is ready to face any challenges ahead of him. We are so lucky to have him at Union City High School.