Student recognized as ALJ’s Unsung Hero

At the recognition of Arthur L. Johnson High School student Tina Herron as her school’s 2023 Unsung Hero are Clark Board of Education member Lorraine J. Aklonis; ALJ Principal Tara Oliveira; ALJ Unsung Hero Tina Herron; William Hulse, Union County School Boards Association president; Brittany Kirkland, Union County SBA board member/NJSBA Board of Directors alternate; Christine Guerriero, Union County SBA first vice president and Clark Board of Education member; and Karen Cortellino, NJSBA vice president of Legislation/Resolutions.

CLARK, NJ — Arthur L. Johnson High School student Tina Herron was recently recognized by the Union County School Boards Association as Arthur L. Johnson’s 2023 Unsung Hero, at a ceremony at Kean University. The ceremony honors students who “make your district a better place simply because they are part of it.”

At the ceremony, ALJ Principal Tara Oliveira said, “Each student at ALJ is challenged during their four years to find their FOCUS (which stands for Future, Opportunity, Character, Unity, Service). Tina exemplifies this vision.”

Oliveira spoke of Herron’s desire to become a teacher and involvement in ALJ’s Tomorrow’s Teachers Program to learn, practice and prepare for her future. She also discussed Herron’s determination as demonstrated through becoming volleyball varsity team captain.

“Tina can be described as having self-discipline, a strong work ethic and an overall desire to help others reach their fullest potential. These attributes contribute to her success,” Oliveira said.

She discussed how Herron leads by example and is an instrumental member of the ALJ Key Club. Herron has worked with the Miracles for Myeloma 5K walk/race, has been a champion for bringing back the Senior Citizen Prom and wrapped presents for a Jenni’s Toys event, a non-profit organization that provides holiday gifts to children in foster care throughout the state of New Jersey.

Oliveira said, “Tina never sits back; she approaches each obstacle with a positive attitude and a goal to try her best. We are so proud of her. Congratulations to our Arthur L. Johnson Unsung hero, Tina Herron.”

Photo Courtesy of Christine Casale Broski