outcomes when implemented responsibly. Leadership sees equity as central to this work. Michael and Dela Cruz emphasize that equity in Freehold Borough means ensuring all students have access to resources and opportunity regardless of background, language, or circumstance. They note that the district is comfortable naming equity directly and building programming around it, viewing it as essential rather than controversial. That clarity, they believe, resonated strongly during the Digital Promise selection process and continues to shape how innovation is approached across the district. Teacher excellence and teacher support are equally central to Freehold Borough’s identity. The district is celebrating the recognition of Gillian Ober, an ESL teacher named State Teacher of the Year. Michael describes Ober’s work as an example of what Freehold Borough values most: personalized attention, differentiated instruction, and a deep commitment to understanding students and families beyond academic performance. Ober’s approach reflects a larger district mindset, where multilingualism is treated as an asset rather than a limitation. Michael notes that Ober reinforces the idea that being multilingual is a superpower, helping students who may initially feel hesitant about language differences gain confidence and belonging. Dela Cruz explains that the district’s instructional model is rooted not only in standards and data, but in understanding the student as a whole person. Academic performance, he notes, often reflects social and emotional well-being. Freehold Borough teachers are trained to recognize that learning barriers are not always academic. They may stem from stressors at home, family responsibilities, or the complex realities students manage outside school. The district invests in professional development that helps teachers understand student backgrounds, respond with appropriate support, and build classroom environments where students can succeed. The district’s ML program also reflects that inclusive 285 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 FREEHOLD BOROUGH SCHOOLS
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