Board of Education Members

The Hamilton Township Board of Education is committed to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. As elected representatives of the community, Board members work collaboratively with district leadership, staff, families, and students to establish policies, oversee budgets, and guide the educational vision of the district.

Each member of the Board brings unique experiences, perspectives, and expertise to their role, but all share a common goal: to support the success and well-being of every child in Hamilton Township Schools. Together, the Board strives to strengthen school-community partnerships, promote transparency, and create opportunities that prepare students for the future.

Nanci Barr, President

Nanci Barr is a lifelong resident of Mays Landing and a proud graduate of Hamilton Township Schools, where she attended Shaner, Duberson, Hess, and Davies before graduating from Oakcrest High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University, as well as a Master’s Degree in Reading & Literacy and a Certification in School Administration.
Nanci has served as an administrator in a neighboring district for the past 20 years. She and her husband, Paul, reside in Mays Landing with their two sons, who attend Hamilton Township Schools. Now in her seventh year as a Board of Education member, Nanci serves on the Curriculum and Policy Committees. She originally joined the Board to provide leadership through the lens of an educator and continues to bring that perspective to her work each day.

Cheryl Cirino, Vice President

(Bio forthcoming)

Shawn Ankrah

Shawn Ankrah is honored to serve the Hamilton Township community as a member of the Board of Education. A dedicated educator for 23 years, she currently serves on the Instruction Committee. Shawn is committed to ensuring that students have access to a world-class education and that their needs—both academic and social-emotional—are met.

Laura Batchelor

(Bio forthcoming)

Ashley Dirkes

(Bio forthcoming)

Ryann Jackson

A lifelong resident of Mays Landing, Ryann Jackson attended Duberson and Davies schools before graduating from Oakcrest High School in 1998. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Rider University and currently serves as Director of Client Services for a boutique insurance, HR, and payroll firm based in Long Island, NY.
Ryann and her husband, Dan, live in Mays Landing with their two children, Cooper and Decker, both of whom attend Hamilton Township Schools. Ryann joined the Board to help strengthen communication between parents, staff, and the district. She brings a parent’s perspective and is committed to fostering stronger community engagement.

Jennifer Lihach

Jennifer Lihach attended Hamilton Township Schools from kindergarten through eighth grade and graduated from Oakcrest High School in 2002. She earned her Doctorate of Pharmacy from Rutgers University and now works as a hospital pharmacist.
Jennifer and her husband are raising three children in Mays Landing. She currently serves on the Operations Committee and is honored to give back to the district by supporting staff, students, and the community.

Beverly Poretto

Beverly Poretto is a lifelong resident of Mays Landing with a strong dedication to education and community service. She holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies from Atlantic Cape Community College, a Bachelor of Arts from Georgian Court University with certifications in multiple areas of teaching, and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix.
With 15 years of experience as a preschool inclusion teacher, Beverly now serves as a Preschool Instructional Teacher, mentoring educators and supporting early childhood programs. She is also an active parent volunteer, sports team manager, and community leader. As a Board member, Beverly advocates for students, families, and educators while working to strengthen school-community connections and promote inclusive opportunities for all learners.

Harry Rogers

Harry Rogers moved to Mays Landing in 1978 and has raised three sons and now enjoys time with two grandchildren. He spent 14 years sailing on ocean tankers, roll-on/roll-off vessels, and passenger ferries, including five years as a ship’s captain. He later worked 24 years in shoreside management for Interocean Management, overseeing operations, emergency response, and international quality and environmental compliance systems.
In 2013, Harry chose to remain in Mays Landing when his company relocated. He now owns Cetacean Marine Companies, which provides ship management services on the Great Lakes and oceans, as well as project work for major shipyards.
On the Board, Harry is focused on strengthening the district’s financial stability, reducing reliance on bond funding, addressing facility needs, and promoting transparency by making curriculum materials available to parents.