Weston Awards: Christen Berman-Schiralli

This is the latest in our series spotlighting the 2026 winners of the Judy Weston Awards for Inspired Teaching. Follow along each week to learn more about the impact these educators are making in the Montclair Public Schools.

+++

“[Christen Berman-Schiralli] is exactly the kind of teacher every child deserves.” 

That’s the opening line of a Weston Award nomination letter for this Watchung Elementary School fourth grade teacher. And it’s not hyperbole. That letter, and several others, went on to detail the many ways Ms. Berman-Schiralli works to make sure every student feels seen, how she invests in them as individuals, and how she goes above and beyond to create an engaging, dynamic learning environment.

For example: 

“Ms. Berman has a rare gift for making each student feel genuinely seen,” a parent wrote.

“Her personalized encouragement has been transformative. She doesn't offer generic praise — she notices what makes each child tick and reflects it back to them in a way that builds real confidence.”  

Here are some of the other qualities nominators shared that set this educator apart: 

• She truly sees each child, offering encouragement and support that builds confidence, 

• She makes lessons engaging and relevant, 

• She brings the curriculum to life through hands-on activities, thoughtful discussions, and creative approaches that spark curiosity, 

• She leads with kindness, patience, and a wonderful sense of fun,

• And she collaborates with colleagues, shares ideas generously, and continually seeks ways to improve. 

“One of Mrs. Berman’s most remarkable qualities is the way she treats every student with equal respect and patience,” a nominator said. “As my daughter has observed, even when a student gets into trouble, Mrs. Berman offers them the opportunity to reflect and make things right. While she maintains appropriate structure and discipline, she does so with gentleness and understanding.”

Parents noted that in a very challenging year for the district, Ms. Berman-Schiralli made a significant transition from teaching math to leading science and social studies instruction, a challenge she embraced with “remarkable dedication, creativity, passion and success.” 

Ms. Berman-Schiralli, for your creativity, adaptability, leadership, and individualized support that sparks curiosity and builds confidence, the Montclair community is are pleased to honor you as an inspired teacher. Congratulations!