TCNJ

9 Prairie WINTER 2023 KATHRYN RATHKE world and gain a broader perspective about how they can make an impact in the sciences." Acting Commissioner of Education Angelica Allen-McMillan describes Girtain's influence: "The Teacher of the Year serves as an exemplar of the kinds of dynamic instruction that is occurring in classrooms throughout New Jersey, and Christine truly sets the standard for innovation. The way she ignites an interest in the sciences will benefit her students long after high school," she says. As a Teacher of the Year, Girtain was rewarded a six-month sabbatical from Toms River to work alongside the New Jersey Department of Education to give presentations to state stakeholders, visit classrooms to encourage participation in STEM fields, and attend national confer- ences. She is even scheduled to meet President Joe Biden. "This award has given me a voice," Girtain says. "I'm very lucky. I love what I do." — David Pavlak 26.2 140.6 (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle, 26.2-mile run) 3,970 4,923 4 12 5 hours and 16 minutes 11 hours and 46 minutes "Running through the famous Brandenburg Gate at the finish was really emotional." "The bright blue waters of Kailua Bay and the ocean swim." New Balance 1080 Hoka Carbon X 2 15 *but he's had the same cycling shoe since 2016 Son Harrison Fehn '26 is a TCNJ freshman Son Carson Ruggia '26 is a TCNJ freshman Ruggia Ruggia Fehn Fehn

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