Physical Education and Health teacher, coach, advisor and mentor, Eric Zullo, has been named Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School’s (RFH) Educator of the Year.  

He was notified while teaching by RFH Interim Superintendent Anne Facendo, other school administrators, teachers and last year’s honoree, Stephanie Pennetti. The Educator of the Year is chosen by a small group of anonymous administrators, teachers, students and parents who take into account nominations from any members of the RFH school community.  

Zullo was deemed most deserving of this year’s honor, because he has distinguished himself as an exemplary educator both in and out of the classroom.  

Currently in his seventh year as an RFH teacher, Zullo is a graduate of Montclair State University with a degree in Physical/Health Education from Montclair State University. Zullo is known to work tirelessly in constant collaboration with his colleagues and supervisor, Seth Herman, to elevate the quality of Physical Education and Health instruction for all students with extremely varied abilities and interests.   

In particular, Zullo passionately advocates for students with unique learning needs, having developed, designed and implemented an Adaptive PE/Health Curriculum which serves as the framework for instruction for students in self-contained special needs programs at RFH.

Zullo has also been instrumental in establishing and continuing to lead the RFH Olympic Games with special needs students. Parents who nominated Zullo for the honor commended him for his job passion and enthusiasm that resonates with the students and them.

“We love Zullo!” is something that is heard often among students who. “He truly does get to know each student, and tailors his approach to the student’s interests.” Herman said. “Mr. Zullo is as passionate, sincere, and dynamic as they come. He is a consummate professional and a tireless advocate for all students.”

Aside from being an inclusive and caring educator, Zullo is an advisor to students and a mentor to his colleagues within and outside of the PE/Health department.

Under his leadership, the Veterans Appreciation Club has established the Wall of Honor. The wall represents a symbol of gratitude to the RFH graduates and community members, past, present, and future, who have made the sacrifice to serve the U.S. in the military. The Wall of Honor case is updated annually, adding new active-duty military members that have recently graduated from RFH.

The Veterans Appreciation Club also prepares care package donations to active-duty military and organizes beach sweeps, cemetery flag laying, fundraisers, amongst other activities with current RFH graduated military personnel and veterans in mind. 

On the athletic front, Zullo currently serves as the head coach to the RFH Varsity Ice Hockey, Girls Golf, and Surf teams. He was recognized by NJ.com in 2021 as the NJ Hockey Coach of the Year.

— Edited press release from RFH

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