Staff Spotlight: Ms. Donatelli

Mental health plays a vital role in students’ learning, behavior, and overall well-being. Schools are key environments for supporting student mental health, and at Metuchen High School, it is continuously supported through its staff, including Ms. Donatelli, whose role as a school psychologist has helped support students’ mental, emotional, and social development. Her work helps students succeed both academically and personally, earning her the title of Metuchen High School’s Educational Services Professional of the Year. 

Ms. Donatelli began her career in psychology following her graduation from Marlboro High School in 1999, later attending Georgia State University, originally undecided in her major. She was primarily interested in teacher roles featuring history or special education, debating on the best way to integrate both into her college experience. “…I took an introductory psychology class, and I thought it was so interesting and knew I wanted to study it more,” stated Donatelli. “One of my professors at Georgian Court introduced me to the field of School Psychology, and the idea of combining my passion for supporting students with disabilities and my interest in psychology was ignited.” Donatelli then continued in this trajectory, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Georgian Court University, her Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology as well as her NJ School Psychologist certification at Montclair State University. She continued to gain experience in her field by completing graduate courses in educational leadership through Rowan University.

Ms. Donatelli began her career at MHS in 2021 after nineteen years of working as a School Psychologist. She immediately felt welcomed and inspired by, “...how accepting and inclusive our students are, especially towards classmates with disabilities or different learning needs. The compassion, acceptance, and partnership I have been fortunate enough to experience made me feel like I found a home that I was proud to be a part of.” The school’s community that impressed Ms. Donatelli has flourished through her positive contributions to the educational environment, as her time at MHS developed with positivity. When asked about the most gratifying aspect of the psychology field, Donatelli says, “[It’s] working with a team of educators and support staff to give students the confidence and the skills to succeed.”

Ms. Donatelli’s recognition as Metuchen High School’s Educational Services Professional of the Year is largely characterized by her passion for her work. She describes the rewarding nature of constructing positive relationships and environments with her students. “There is nothing better than reconnecting with an alumni student and hearing about all of the success they have found in whatever path they’ve chosen,” she says. Upon receiving the title, she felt pleasantly shocked and honored to be recognized in such a prestigious way. “It was exceptionally heartwarming in the days and weeks that have followed to hear such kind and lovely words of support from my students, colleagues, and parents that I work with. It’s so validating to know that people see how your work impacts others, and that is an immeasurable feeling,” she said.

Ms. Donatelli’s care and dedication to her work have made a profoundly positive impact on the school environment. Her commitment is demonstrated by her recognition as MHS’s Educational Services Professional of the Year, highlighting what it means to be an advocate of student well-being and a positive, supportive presence within the school community.