2 Barnegat-Manahawkin Teachers Awarded For Going 'Above & Beyond'

BARNEGAT-MANAHAWKIN, NJ — A Barnegat Township School District teacher and a Stafford Township School District teacher were both selected by Applebees to win the restaurant's 10th annual Above and ‘BEE’yond Teacher Essay Contest.

For the contest, students nominated their favorite teacher and wrote an essay on how said teacher positively influenced their educational experience.

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Among New Jersey's eight winners were Barnegat High School teacher Katie Torres and McKinley Avenue Elementary School teacher Mrs. Adanatzian. Both were nominated at the Doherty-owned Applebees in Manahawkin.

As an award, the teachers will receive a $500 sponsorship check to support their classroom for the upcoming 2026–2027 school year, along with an end-of-year celebration for their students.

“Every year, these student submissions highlight the incredible dedication and influence teachers have in shaping young lives,” said Michael McKee, Director of Operations for Doherty Enterprises. “We’re proud to recognize this year’s winners and support the important work they do in their classrooms and communities.”