Kesselman accepted flowers and a certificate, and then shared her honor with those honoring her.

"Thanks for being such great students that make me so motivated to teach you," she said.

Hickman said that since the award was a surprise, incorporating it into the already planned pep rally seemed like a great way to both surprise and recognize Kesselman. Smith said she usually just goes into the teacher's classroom, but the event provided an appropriately festive note.

More than 5,000 teachers were nominated nationally this year for the award, which recognizes teachers who use innovative methods and take extra time to help their students succeed.

Kesselman teaches Computer Workplace Readiness and Advanced Web Design at the school, where she has taught for eight years. An alternate-route teacher, she worked in finance and as a day trader for 18 years before becoming a teacher.

"After 18 years, Harvey (her husband) suggested it was time I live my dream to be a teacher," Kesselman said. "I had gotten a business degree from Stockton, and over the years I would see our kids come home inspired by a teacher, with a light in their eyes, and I wanted to do that, too."

She got a job in Egg Harbor Township and credited Superintendent Philip Heery and the staff for being open to hiring alternate-route teachers who come in from other professions and take college courses in teaching while they teach.

"It is a challenge to teach and study at the same time," said Kesselman, who serves as a mentor to new teachers.

Heery said he views it as an asset to hire people who have expertise in the field they are going to teach.

"It's the best of both worlds, and here's the result," he said.

Kesselman was nominated by co-worker and alternate-route teacher Kimberly DeMaggio, who cited numerous projects Kesselman has done for both students and staff.

"Funding has not kept pace with growth (in the district)," DeMaggio wrote, "and finding creative ways to secure resources is Lynn's specialty." She listed a page of examples and added that "Lynne has gone out of her way, volunteered her own time and taken the lead for positive changes."

DeMaggio said by phone that while the nomination took some time to complete, Kesselman was worth it for all she has done for her and the school.

"She has so much commitment and always puts the students first," DeMaggio said.

Students echoed DeMaggio's comments.

"She really opened my mind to what I could do, " said junior Val Aliu, who took the Workplace Readiness course.

Senior Michael Estergren said Kesselman makes the Advanced Web Design course fun.

"We're doing new stuff every day," he said. "And if you're having trouble with something, she doesn't mind taking you aside for extra help. Even people who are not in her class come in to see her."

E-mail Diane D'Amico:

DDamico@pressofac.com