For over three decades, Mr. Patrick McCaffery has devoted himself to the English department at Edison High. Through teaching almost all levels of English, including level 1, level 2, and AP Language and Composition, McCaffery has shown his passion for the subject. During his time as a student, McCaffery received guidance from another English teacher, who allowed his love for literature to flourish.

“I had an English teacher at the time, who showed me the power of literature and writing about how I could escape into fictional worlds and how I could express myself and kind of gain power, so those kinds of [things] came together,” said McCaffery.

While attending Rutgers College locally in 1994, McCaffery began working at EHS after a sudden phone call.

“I happened to be home the day before school started, and my phone rang. The supervisors asked me to come in for an interview, saying school is starting today for teachers. School starts tomorrow. Can you come in for an interview today?” said McCaffery. “And because I answered the phone, I got the job.” 

As someone who has worked at the school for many years, McCaffery notes how he loves the diversity in EHS.

“I love how there are so many different faces, so many different voices, so many different ideas, and I think that is something that is truly unique to Edison, and it’s a high school, and it should be celebrated,” said McCaffery.

Beyond diversity, McCaffery appreciates the academic drive that is instilled in students today. During his tenure at EHS, McCaffery has witnessed the advancement of classes. From teaching basic writing and SAT classes to AP Language and Composition, he continued to learn from his students and colleagues. In the future, he only wishes the best for EHS.

“Edison High will prosper after me, and I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing about the great things that come from this school,” he said.

Ms. Marilyn Griswold has taught Spanish in EHS’s World Language Department for 24 years. A graduate of Montclair State University, Griswold pursued a passion for teaching that stemmed from an early age. Due to Spanish being her first language, Griswold believed that it was the perfect subject because of its “relevance and vibrancy”.

Furthermore, she has shown her devotion to the foreign language department by teaching all levels of Spanish, including honors. 

“I chose teaching high school because I enjoy the energy and curiosity of teenagers as they develop more complex language skills and desire to improve critical thinking,” said Griswold. “I have enjoyed collaborating with an amazing group of teachers in the World Language and ESL department.  We have supported each other through all stages of life. Together, we have faced and overcome challenges as well as celebrated as a family.” 

Through teaching, she has also been able to connect with her students.

“It has been a privilege and honor to have taught Spanish at Edison High School for the past 24 years,” said Griswold. “Through the years, I have consistently felt support and respect from everyone in our building. As I reflect, I can say that I end my teaching career with very fond memories of my students, past and present. Go Eagles! I leave with a sense of joy and hope for all!” 

Over the past ten and a half years, Mr. Michael Piccolo has devoted his teaching career to EHS. After transitioning from the finance industry, he chose to pursue a career in education. Since then, Piccolo has applied his expertise to teaching finance and investment, business management, and AP Economics.

“It’s a little scary at first, because when you go through the alternate route, you don’t get the student teaching experience,” said Piccolo. “My first time in front of a class was probably tough for the first few weeks, but then it became a lot easier. Because I feel that my job is to get to know the students, and when you get to know them, they start participating.”

Valuing his time with students, Piccolo believes a teacher should really try to connect with their class, saying, “If I expect them to respect me, I need to respect them.” 

Likewise, his commitment has naturally expanded beyond the classroom; over the last decade, he took on various extracurricular roles, stepping in as a co-advisor for the class of 2026, Peacock Society, and the National Business Honor Society. By working so closely with different groups of students, he saw what it means to be a part of the EHS community.

“I think the diversity at Edison High is a great thing,” said Piccolo. “It gives me a lot of hope for the future that maybe our world can become like we are here, everybody accepts everybody’s culture, and that’s the way it should be.”

Despite changing career paths, Piccolo’s time at Edison High came with many benefits, from experiencing the school’s inclusive environment first-hand to the lasting connections he built with his students.

“These were probably the best ten and a half years of my working career,” Piccolo said. “I enjoyed the fact that I could give back what I learned through my working experience and engage with the students on their level.”