On, Tuesday March 9, 2026 Mr. Frank Vito and Mrs. Toni Anthony were named Cranford School’s Educators of the Year.
Social Studies teacher Frank Vito has been working at Cranford High School (CHS) since 2007. In his time here, Vito has been a consistently hardworking teacher and member of the Cranford community. This is his second recognition, as Vito won the same award in 2012. Although classroom environments have changed since then by incorporating new technologies, Vito continuously demonstrates his ability to create meaningful connections with and among students. He believes these connections play important roles in school, as he hopes for others to extend similar empathy and kindness.
Vito remarks, “The more we interact with each other, the more we know about each other, the more we want to help each other.”
He emphasizes the impacts we have on each other and understands his own ability to make Cranford a better place. Vito’s dedication to being a great teacher does not go unnoticed; his compassionate and cheerful attitude empowers every student he works with.
Toni Anthony, CHS’ Student Assistance Counselor, received recognition for her outstanding impact on the CHS community. Her patience and attentiveness make each and every student feel special and heard. She works hard to instill wellness in our school community and hopes others can learn from her to make wellness sustainable.
She explains, “[If] we work together or if we talk together, it is physiologically healthy for the body. It makes people feel connected and belonging to something, which is important to mental health.”
She teaches the virtue of time and the long-lasting impact that could give someone. Anthony’s work and her dedication to it are something greatly appreciated in the Cranford community. Thanks to her, students feel they are valued.
Both teachers are grateful for this recognition of their impacts. They do so much for the school, whether it be organizing big events or helping students one-on-one. By displaying genuine care for the Cranford community, both work hard to help out and do what they can to make every student and staff member feel like they are a part of something bigger.
