Monmouth County's Teacher Of The Year Is ...

HOWELL, NJ — A Howell High School teacher has been named the Monmouth County Teacher of the Year.

Todd Curtis, who teaches history and economics, including Advanced Placement classes, at the high school, was one of 21 educators honored at the annual state Department of Education awards ceremony at Jackson Memorial High School. The state announced the honorees Thursday.

"I am honored to recognize the 2018-2019 County Teachers of the Year," Governor Phil Murphy said. "These 21 educators exemplify the outstanding level of talent and commitment that exists in New Jersey’s public schools. Their hard work and dedication is a critical part of making our state’s public education system one of the best in the country and creating a life-long love of learning for New Jersey’s students."

"Our greatest resources in public education are our educators," said Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet. "Here in New Jersey, we are blessed to have many brilliant educators, and these 21 who are being recognized as county Teachers of the Year are emblematic of the quality of instruction that we see throughout the Garden State."

Teachers recognized as part of the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program become eligible to compete for County Teachers of the Year. Panels representing a cross-section of administrators, teachers, parents and members of county education associations select each County Teacher of the Year. A panel then chooses the New Jersey State Teacher of the Year based on written applications, video submissions and interviews with the County Teachers of the Year.

The State Teacher of the Year is expected to be announced at the State Board of Education's October meeting, and will go on to represent New Jersey in competing for the title of National Teacher of the Year.

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Photo via Freehold Regional High School District website