Dedicated School Counselor In Newark Earns Award For ‘Answering The Call’

NEWARK, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Newark Board of Education. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Sherlie Blaise, a school counselor at Roberto Clemente School, has been named the 2026 Essex County Counselor of the Year by the New Jersey School Counselors Association.

A dedicated educator with more than 25 years of service in Newark Public Schools, Blaise has worked the past five years as a school counselor, where she has distinguished herself through her unwavering commitment to students’ academic success, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness.

“Ms. Blaise represents the very best of the counseling and support services of the Newark Public Schools,” said Superintendent León. “She has answered the call to serve our students as a school counselor, and she has made a lasting impact. She brings compassion, expertise, and a deep understanding of our students’ needs, ensuring that they are supported academically and as whole individuals.”

“This recognition is a reflection of the powerful relationships our counselors build with students and families every day,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Ms. Blaise’s work reminds us that student success is about academics as well as making sure every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.”

At Roberto Clemente Elementary School, Ms. Blaise embodies what it means to advocate for children. She doesn’t just speak for students. She teaches them how to advocate for themselves, empowering them to find their voice, build confidence, and take ownership of their future.

“Ms. Blaise is an extraordinary educator whose passion for our students is evident in everything she does,” said Dr. Claudio Barbaran, Principal of Roberto Clemente School. “She goes above and beyond to ensure that every child feels supported, valued, and prepared for success. Whether she is helping students navigate challenges or guiding them toward their future goals, she brings a level of care and dedication that truly makes a difference in our school community.”

Originally from Brooklyn, New York Blaise’s career in the district began in 2000 and includes roles as a teacher at Avon Avenue School, a technology coordinator at Ivy Hill Elementary School, a resource teacher in the Office of Instructional Technology, and a STEM coach at Roberto Clemente School before transitioning into counseling.

Blaise described receiving the honor as both exciting and humbling.

“I was shocked and incredibly grateful,” Blaise said. “This is truly an honor. I love the children of Newark and it is a privilege to serve them every day.”

She credits her passion for counseling to her long career working with students and recognizing the broader challenges they face beyond the classroom.

“From early in my career, I saw that for many students, it’s not just about academics. It’s about everything else going on in their lives,” Blaise said. “I felt called to do this work so I could support them in those areas. When students are supported socially and emotionally, they can thrive academically and in their personal lives as well.”

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here.