School Psychologist Melissa Norrbom Selected as Educational Services Professional of the Year at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School

BRIDGEWATER – Dr. Melissa Norrbom, a School Psychologist at Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School (SCVTHS), has been selected as the 2025-2026 Educational Services Professional of the Year.

Dr. Norrbom has been a school psychologist for eighteen years and has been on the staff at SCVTHS for eleven of those years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Penn State, a Masters in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from Fairleigh Dickinson University. When asked why she entered the field, she said, “I entered psychology because I am interested in why people do what they do. And I like working with kids. So school psychology was a good fit.”

As a case manager for SCVTHS students with disabilities, Dr. Norrbom works to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address their needs and set them up for success in academics and their career programs. She is also part of the SCVTHS Intervention and Referral Services (INRS) team, a school-based support system that helps students having difficulties with learning, behavior, or health issues. In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, Dr. Norrbom also helps with the school’s recruiting efforts and reviews new student applications.

“As the school psychologist, Melissa is an advocate for the students of SCVTHS,” said Maria Johnson, SCVTHS Director of Special Services. “Her dedication to support students’ academic, social and emotional growth is to be commended. On a daily basis, Melissa collaborates with staff and families to help create learning environments where all students can succeed.”

When she is not at SCVTHS, Dr. Norrbom enjoys spending time with her husband, her two children, and their two cats. She also enjoys knitting, crocheting, and other craft projects, and is an avid reader. Until recently, she also served as treasurer for the New Jersey Association of School Psychologists.

When asked how she feels about receiving the Educational Services Professional of the Year award, Dr. Norrbom said, “I am honored to receive this award. Much of the work I do is individualized and confidential, and it is nice to be recognized for my behind the scenes work with my students. Working at SCVTHS, helping my students transition to adulthood, is very rewarding, and I'm grateful that my colleagues value my contributions to the school.”

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