Newark’s Teacher Of Year Is Giving Students A Big Jump On High School

NEWARK, NJ — New Jersey’s largest public school district has many high-achieving educators. But every year, one of them gets the nod as Newark’s “Teacher of the Year.” And for 2021-2022, that honor went to Jessica Cruz Tavares.

On Wednesday, district officials, students and family members surprised Tavares at Lafayette Street School to present the award.

“I really do appreciate the opportunity to teach here,” a beaming Taveras said. “I truly do love what I do each and every day.”

“My students are getting ready for high school, so I try to encourage them to keep going and keep learning inside and outside the classroom,” Taveras added.

Here are just a few reasons why Taveras earned the annual award, according to a statement from the Newark Board of Education:

“Tavares has been teaching middle school science at Lafayette Street School since 2014. She was nominated and selected based on her interdisciplinary approach to teaching that centers on student growth, which is both challenging and engaging. As a teacher leader, she is highly respected by her peers and students and was elated by the recognition. She consistently gives back to the profession by sharing her expertise and knowledge of teaching and learning through interclass visitations and mentoring new teachers. Mrs. Tavares has compassion and sensitivity that allows her to connect with her students and others on a personal level.”

“Every year, it is with pride that I announce and introduce the Newark Board of Education’s Teacher of the Year, and this year is no different,” Superintendent Roger León said.

“It is an honor to have Mrs. Tavares, who personifies what it means to be committed to ensuring that students receive the academic and emotional tools needed to be successful,” León said.

“To know that we have the absolute best is heartwarming,” Board of Education President Dawn Hayes agreed.

Lafayette Principal Maria Merlo also had high praise for Tavares.

“Jessica is not just a teacher in this class, she's a teacher leader in the school,” Merlo said. “She has worn so many hats throughout the year to make things possible, and I thank her from the bottom of my heart.”

• See related article: Newark Raises Pay For Veteran, Rookie Teachers Amid Staffing Crunch
• See related article: 'Heroic' Teacher In Essex County Saves Student, Earns Key To The City

In addition to Tavares, Newark school administrators also honored 63 other local teachers this year, who have been recognized for their “outstanding efforts in the classroom.” See the list below.

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