Salem's Bentley Academy Teacher 'Mr. G' Wins Margaret Voss Howard Recognition Award

SALEM, MA — A Salem pre-kindergarten dual language educator has been named this year's Salem recipient of the Margaret Voss Howard Teacher Recognition Award.

Jonay Gonzalez Morera of Bentley Academy Innovation School — referred to by many students and parents as Mr. G — received the honor during a ceremony at the BAIS Auditorium.

The award is presented each year to two educators, one in Salem and one in Marblehead, as a recognition of teachers in both communities. Gonzalez also received a $1,000 cash award.

Jennifer Wilkins, a special education teacher at the Village School, was named the Marblehead recipient.

Former Saltonstall School principal Dr. Margaret Howard, who founded the award, honored Gonzalez at the ceremony.

The MVH Teacher Appreciation Award was founded as a retirement gift for Howard and funded by gifts from colleagues.

"When my name was announced, I was genuinely shocked," Gonzalez said. "It was an incredible moment and a very emotional one. Receiving an award that comes directly from families makes it especially meaningful because building strong relationships with students and their families is one of the most important parts of being a teacher.

"Then came the speech, and I honestly didn't know what to say. It was difficult to fully express the gratitude I carry in my heart. This is one of the most meaningful gifts I have ever received."

Gonzalez, a native of the Canary Islands, Spain, earned a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of La Laguna in 2009 and later completed a master's degree in Educational Technology and Digital Learning.

After eight years in the education non-profit sector, he became an early childhood education teacher in Spain's public school system and also took on work in educational leadership, teacher training and school improvement initiatives. He came to Salem Public Schools in 2024.

"One of the greatest privileges of teaching in a Dual Language program is watching children discover that speaking another language opens doors to new cultures, new perspectives, and new friendships," he said. "Those moments inspire me every day."

Gonzalez received several nominations from BAIS parents praising his classroom environment and the way he makes students feel seen and valued.

One nomination stated: "In the time (my child) has been in his classroom, I have witnessed an amazing transformation in her. Not only does Mr. G advance his students' learning but he acts as a safe harbor and a champion for all the students in his care."

"When he was presented with the award, I read a list of terms that had appeared in the nomination that embody how Jonay ensures belonging for each one of his students," BAIS Principal Liz Rogers said. "With Mr. G, children find a safe harbor and a champion. They find a place to feel seen, welcomed, engaged, encouraged, and loved."