Manchester Teacher Receives Legislators' Award

A Manchester Township teacher has been honored by 10th District lawmakers for her efforts in the classroom with the district’s “Excellence in Education” award.

Stacey O’Connor, a first-grade teacher at Manchester Township Elementary School, was presented with a plaque by state Sen. Jim Holzapfel and Assemblyman Greg McGuckin during a ceremony at the school.

“It’s an honor to present this award to an educator who has won the hearts of her students and the admiration of her colleagues for her enthusiastic and creative teaching style and leadership skills,” Holzapfel said. “Mrs. O’Connor is a reflection of the outstanding level of education we have in the Manchester Township School District and throughout New Jersey.”

Holzapfel, McGuckin, and Assemblyman David Wolfe present the award each year to the elementary, middle school or high school teacher in their legislative district who best exemplifies excellence, commitment and dedication to classroom teaching.

“Mrs. O’Connor’s credentials are exemplary, but it’s her commitment to her students and her innovative teaching style that makes her an outstanding educator,” McGuckin said. “Her passion for teaching and her love of music make learning fun, which is essential especially when teaching youngsters. She’s a role model for others who desire to make a difference in our children’s future.”

Wolfe, who was not at the ceremony, said, “As a former educator, I know how difficult it can be to motivate students. By incorporating music into her classroom lessons, Mrs. O’Connor has stepped outside the box and discovered a very successful teaching technique which resonates with her students.”

“I am honored to accept the ‘Excellence in Education’ award. I believe that excellence in education is fostered by the collaboration of the entire school community, rather than an achievement of one individual,” O’Connor said. “I am privileged to be part of Manchester Township Schools and work among such dedicated and talented colleagues. We all bring unique skills to our classrooms and work to the best of our ability to meet the needs of our students.”

A graduate of The College of Wooster, O’Connor received music certification credits from Georgian Court University. She is a New Jersey state certified elementary teacher, K-8, and a state certified music teacher, K-12. A Toms River resident, O’Connor has directed and choreographed several MTES productions, integrating academics with music.

The entire student body and staff of MTES attended the ceremony to cheer for Mrs. O’Connor as she received her award. Principal Linda Waldron expressed the school’s pride in Mrs. O’Connor as she introduced the legislators for the presentation.

After the ceremony, Mrs. O’Connor’s class threw a small party for her, complete with cupcakes, a gift, and a song and dance led by Mrs. O’Connor.