Meet our Staff

Our staff consists entirely of Glen Ridge educators, each deeply invested in the community and passionate about fostering a positive, enriching experience. With a shared commitment to excellence, our team brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and personalized attention to every camper.

Camp Director

Rachel Patterson

Ms. Patterson has been an integral part of the Glen Ridge community for the past ten years, teaching both first and second grade. She currently teaches first grade at Central School and is dedicated to fostering a love of learning in her young students. She holds her Masters degree in Literacy and is an Orton Gillingham certified instructor. Ms. Patterson is dedicated to creating a supportive and engaging environment where all students thrive.

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Stephanie Appleby

Stephanie Appleby has been a dedicated member of the Glen Ridge School District since 2012, with more than a decade of experience teaching Kindergarten. Holding a Master’s degree in education, she is passionate about inspiring a love of learning in her students. Over the years, Stephanie has had the privilege of working in all three lower elementary schools, and she is currently teaching at Central School. Stephanie is deeply invested in the Glen Ridge community and finds daily inspiration in the children she teaches. She is committed to creating a warm, supportive, and engaging classroom where every student can flourish.

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Lisa Petruzzi

Mrs. Petruzzi is a dedicated educator with over 24 years of experience in the Glen Ridge Public School District. Throughout her career, she has taught a range of grades, from second and first grade to kindergarten. However, her true passion lies in her current role as the preschool teacher at Forest Avenue School, where she nurtures a love of learning in her students through exploration and play-based learning. Mrs. Petruzzi is also a certified Orton-Gillingham teacher, deeply committed to laying the essential building blocks for reading and writing in the early childhood years. She is thrilled to be part of the amazing team of Glen Ridge educators, and is eager to continue sharing the joy of learning with students throughout the summer. She looks forward to seeing you at Camp Discovery!

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Cassandra Gibbons

Mrs. Gibbons has been teaching second grade at Linden Avenue School for five years. She is a passionate and devoted teacher, who nurtures creativity while ensuring that her students feel safe and engaged. By creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment, she not only helps her students reach their full potential but also inspires a love of learning that can last a lifetime. 

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Abby Lapone

Ms. Lapone has been part of the Glen Ridge community for the last five years teaching both Kindergarten and First Grade. She currently teaches first grade at Forest Avenue School where her young learners feel safe, valued, and excited. Ms. Lapone is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Literacy Instruction. She is excited to be a part of your child's experience at Camp Discovery!