Lisa Jarusiewicz works in the district’s SAIL Program, which stands for Students Achieving Independent Life Skills. She earned the award from the NJ Association of People Supporting Employment for her intense focus on transition planning and support for students with disabilities moving into the workforce.

“I am very honored to be the recipient of this reward as I value my role as their educator,” Jarusiewicz said. “The relationships I have forged with students and their families over the years have been invaluable.”

Jarusiewicz is a graduate of Piscataway High School and has been a special education teacher in the district for 25 years. She was nominated for the award by her colleagues and received it on Oct. 18 at the Facing the Future conference in New Brunswick.

“Ms. Jarusiewicz is a dedicated educator who creates an environment where students feel valued and empowered, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success,” said Piscataway Director of Pupil Services Theresa Edmondson.

Piscataway’s SAIL Program helps autistic, and developmentally and cognitively impaired students from ages 18-21 develop workplace preparedness and functional life skills through activities inside and outside the classroom. Students are exposed to a variety of occupations via structured learning experiences and community-based instruction.

“The work we do in the SAIL Program is as rewarding as it is important,” Jarusiewicz said. “We’re responsible for transitioning our students into adulthood to be responsible, active participants in the community.

“I am truly proud to be a product of Piscataway and to be recognized for my part in facilitating our students’ success.”

Lisa Jarusiewicz, left, shown at the SAIL Program graduation in June 2024, was named state Transition Educator of the Year. She is joined by SAIL teachers Dana Mutek and Lisa Russo at right.

Each school day for a SAIL student involves both classroom and workplace experiences. Course work addresses domestic life skills, vocational skills, and recreation and leisure. The curriculum includes travel training, social skills, and job safety training.

The program partners with local businesses to provide students with work experience. Students have the opportunity to train at multiple diverse jobs sites over the course of the program in order to discover areas of interest and acquire a variety of skills. Some students shadow employees, some work hand in hand with a job coach, and some work independently based on their strengths and needs.

“The SAIL Program is more than a bridge to employment; it’s a journey of opportunity for our students, guiding them as they transition to adult life,” Edmondson said. “Through tailored learning experiences and community engagement, we provide them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace and gain independence in the community.”