The Paw would like to introduce some new staff members to West Morris!
Cassidy Buchanan: Social Worker
Ms. Buchanan is a new social worker in the guidance department at West Morris Central. She started at Boonton High School as a social worker and stayed there for three years after getting her master’s degree. When she heard of a job opportunity at West Morris Central, she took it. Transitioning into a new school is tough, but joining halfway through is an extra challenge. Ms. Buchanan states, “ I was leaving at Boonton mid-year and it’s tough to say bye to them.” To counteract the stress of transitioning schools, Buchanan already has a lot of West Morris background knowledge. She is an alumnus of West Morris Central and a family member of the many Buchanans already employed at West Morris Central. She substitute taught here during college and interned with the guidance counselors while in college. Ms. Buchanan stated, “[there are] very familiar faces and some new faces but everyone has been very welcoming.”
Welcome back to West Morris Ms. Buchanan!
Amanda Mrasz: Physical education teacher
Ms. Mrasz is returning to West Morris Central as a physical education teacher. She graduated from WMC in 2013, and Ms. Mrasz states, It honestly felt like I never left”. Ms. Mrasz grew up playing just about every sport for a season or longer, and as an adult, health, and exercise have played a big role in her life. She loves working out in the gym, golfing, running half marathons, and eating healthy. This passion led her to want to be in a role to inspire students to learn how to incorporate health and wellness into their lives at a pace that works with them. Before coming to Central, Mrasz was an elementary school teacher for six years. Ms. Mrasz feels transitioning to high school from elementary “has been seamless thus far.” S She also adds that with high schoolers, she can have more meaningful and in-depth conversations about health. Being a teacher to this age group allows her to coach and teach valuable lifelong lessons to help shape young minds into responsible adults. Mrasz states “Being surrounded by such a positive and supportive community has made coming to work here such a joy. I am looking forward to the years ahead!”
The Paw welcomes Ms. Mrasz back to WMC!
Julie Githens: Main office
Mrs. Githens is familiar with West Morris but new to Central. She has worked at West Morris Mendham since 2021 and has three kids who graduated from Mendham. Girthens is at Central to replace Mrs. Oatley in the front office. In the past, Githens worked as a special education aid and a preschool teacher aid. She has also spent many years volunteering with Mendham Junior’s Women’s Club. Before having children she worked in the financial industry as a stockbroker and marketing representative. What Githens likes most about working at West Morris Central is “the positive and friendly energy from both the staff and students.”
Welcome to West Morris Central Mrs. Githens!
