Somerset County Teacher Of The Year Awarded To North Plainfield Educator

NORTH PLAINFIELD, NJ— North Plainfield High School social studies teacher Neil Thompson has been named Somerset County Teacher of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year.

Thompson was part of a statewide group of 21 educators recognized on Wednesday by the New Jersey Department of Education. The educators were honored at an awards ceremony at The College of New Jersey in Ewing.

"New Jersey’s success depends on the strength of our public schools and the tireless commitment of the educators who show up every day for our kids," said Governor Mikie Sherrill. "The 21 County Teachers of the Year who are being recognized today represent the very best of this profession. Their commitment to helping students learn, grow, and achieve their goals strengthens communities across our state and helps ensure a brighter future for New Jersey."

Thompson has spent his entire 25-year teaching career in North Plainfield, first at North Plainfield Middle School and now at North Plainfield High School.

According to the New Jersey Department of Education, he teaches United States History, World History, multiple Advanced Placement history courses and a range of electives.

The state said Thompson also developed the Law, Crime, and Punishment course, described as a highly sought-after class that immerses students in real-world criminal justice investigations and connects academic learning with career pathways in law enforcement, law and public service.

The department said he has served in several leadership roles in North Plainfield, including co-president of the North Plainfield Education Association, teacher mentor, curriculum writer, and a member of the high school’s Scheduling Committee and Security and Safety Team.

"The County Teachers of the Year exemplify the excellence, creativity, and dedication that define the teaching profession in New Jersey," said Dr. Lily Laux, Commissioner of Education. "School can change the trajectory of a child’s life – and great teachers are the heart of that change, providing students with meaningful learning opportunities that make them feel safe, supported, and successful. We are proud to celebrate these educators and the positive influence they have on countless students and families."

Teachers of the Year are first selected by their individual schools and can then apply for County Teacher of the Year through the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program, an initiative that recognizes outstanding teachers and educational services professionals.

According to the NJDOE, county winners will network with colleagues across the state and serve as ambassadors for New Jersey’s public schools during the school year.

A panel of educators will next choose the New Jersey State Teacher of the Year from the 21 county honorees using written applications, video submissions and interviews with top finalists.

The state announcement is scheduled for this fall, and the winner will represent New Jersey in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

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