The Washington Township School District recently highlighted two veteran educators who have taken on new roles for the 2024-’25 school year.
Christina Battiato is the district’s new director of special education and student services and Kathi Kersznowski, the district’s educational technology specialist, has been named a leader and chairperson in the newly formed New Jersey Education and Technology Association (NJETA).
The township board of education unanimously appointed Battiato to lead the department at a June meeting. She began her new role on Aug. 19 at an annual pro-rated salary of $126,909. She replaced Kathryn Ashbridge.
Battiato previously served as a learning disabilities teacher/consultant and interim special education elementary supervisor for the township district. Her new role emphasizes her experience in fostering inclusive and supportive environments for students. Â
With 22 years of service in the field of special education as a classroom teacher, disabilities teacher/consultant and school administrator, Battiato has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for diverse learners, according to a school district press release. Her career has been dedicated to ensuring every student gets their necessary support. Â
Battiato held multiple positions highlighting her comprehensive expertise in educational leadership, policy implementation and advocacy for student welfare in the Mount Ephraim Public School District. She was its director of special education; early-childhood, district state-test coordinator; gifted and talented coordinator; homeless liaison; and anti-bullying specialist.
Battiato earned a bachelor’s in marine science from Stockton University, and pursued advanced studies at Wilmington University, where she got dual master’s degrees in special education and school leadership. She also has certifications as a teacher, disabilities teacher/consultant, supervisor and principal. Â
Battiato and her three children – Alexandra, Samuel, and Maxwell – reside in Pilesgrove Township.
Kersznowski is known for her experience as a presenter, keynote speaker and educational technology expert and was sought out by NJETA for her invaluable knowledge and skills, according to the district. The NJETA was officially announced on Sept. 5 and has a strategic partnership with the New Jersey Association for School Administrators (NJASA).
NJETA is structured around six key pillars: educational technology, data governance/privacy, AI, intelligence, network infrastructure/cybersecurity, operations and physical security and marketing and event planning. Kersznowski will serve as chair in both the educational technology and marketing and event planning pillars.
“I’ve been honored to serve as an educational technology leader in the Washington Township Public School system for many years,” she noted. “Now, I am proud to represent and serve at the state level through NJETA, contributing to shaping the future of educational technology across New Jersey.”
NJETA’s vision is to “lead the transformation of education through innovative technology solutions and practices that empower learners, educators and technology professionals.” It offers members professional development, networking events, resources advocacy, and industry collaboration.
For more information about NJETA and its initiatives, visit njeta.org.
