Mrs. Tsihlas was born and raised in Livingston, NJ and stayed close to home by attending Caldwell University where she earned her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. After graduating, Mrs. Tsihlas immediately pursued her Masters Degree in Education with a specialization in School Counseling from Monmouth University as well as a Substance Abuse Certification (SAC). 

In 2011, she was a long-term sub as a school counselor in Harrington Park, NJ. In 2012, Mrs. Tsihlas began to work in the Hanover Township School district as a school counselor. While in Hanover for 11 years, Mrs. Tsihlas served as the I&RS coordinator, HIB specialist, 504 coordinator, school climate and safety team coordinator, homeless and home instruction liaison, member of the district crisis intervention team, planned annual career days, created SEL programs, as well as served as the Student Council and Community Service Club advisor, in addition to working with a caseload of about 250 students in grades 6-8. During this time, Mrs. Tsihlas also earned her Supervisor and Director of Counseling services certificate. In June of 2021, Mrs. Tsihlas completed her Principal certificate through the NJEXCEL program. 

She is looking forward to supporting Mr. White and continuing to strengthen the vision and mission of BRMS. She views education as a life-long process and expects that she will continue to learn much about the uniqueness of Black River this year and in the years to come. 

Mrs. Tsihlas lives in Hunterdon County with her husband and their 3 children. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, cooking, and going “down the shore” with her family.