Newark Math Whiz Named As Essex County ‘Teacher Of The Year’

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A math teacher from Newark has been named as Essex County’s latest “teacher of the year,” state officials announced Tuesday.

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) released a list of 21 educators who have been named New Jersey’s 2024-2025 County Teachers of the Year. This year’s honorees include El Houcin Houssam, a mathematics teacher at West Side High School in the Newark Public School District, who took home the honors in Essex County.

According to the NJDOE, here’s why Houssam earned the top honor in Essex County this year, state officials said:

“El Houcin Houssam holds a master’s degree in teaching from Montclair State University and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics of finance and actuarial science from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. With just five years of teaching experience in mathematics, he has expertly guided young adults in their pursuit of careers in science, engineering, and mathematics, instilling in them a passion for learning and discovery. El Houcin's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment defines him as an outstanding educator. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every student can thrive, embodying leadership qualities highly regarded in his school community. As an active participant on the school improvement panel, he offers valuable insights to enhance the educational experience for all students.”

The accomplished educator is also making a difference outside of the classroom, NJDOE administrators said:

“In addition to his teaching responsibilities, El Houcin serves as the advisor of the Debate Club, where he nurtures critical thinking and communication skills among students beyond the classroom. He demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside of the classroom by contributing his ideas and expertise with his colleagues, students, and families which fosters a culture of continuous improvement and responsiveness to the diverse needs of the school’s educational community. El Houcin’s ultimate goal is to make a lasting difference in the lives of his students, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate the complexities of both mathematics and the world beyond the classroom.”

“New Jersey’s public schools are considered the best in the nation because of our outstanding teachers, and this year’s 21 County Teachers of the Year exemplify that excellence,” Gov. Phil Murphy said.

“Exceptional educators are the key to ensuring that students across New Jersey will have a bright future,” Murphy added.

Individual schools select “Teachers of the Year,” who are then eligible to apply for County Teacher of the Year through the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program. A panel of educators will select the New Jersey State Teacher of the Year from among the 21 County Teachers of the Year based on written applications, video submissions, and interviews with the top finalists.

More information is available on the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program webpage.

See a list of recent teachers of the year in Essex County below, or view the list online here.

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