Newark School Official Named ‘Italian American Educator Of Year’

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.

Assistant Superintendent Carolyn Granato of Newark Public Schools was recently celebrated as Essex County’s 2024 Italian American Educator of the Year. The recognition came during a special ceremony hosted by Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, where N.J. Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz presented the award to Granato.

“You have always been a friend to me and my family,” Ruiz said to Granato. “If there was ever a parent or family or a student in need, you picked up the phone and you resolved the issue. Thank you for making New Jersey better. Thank you for making this world better.”

“Ms. Granato has made an incredible difference as a teacher, principal, and now as an assistant superintendent, always focusing on enhancing educational experiences and opportunities for our students,” said Superintendent León. “We are proud to have her as part of our district and grateful for her commitment to fostering growth and achievement. This recognition is truly well-deserved.”

“On behalf of the Board of Education, I am very pleased to see Ms. Granato receive this well-deserved recognition,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “We thank Ms. Granato for her many years of dedicated service to Newark’s students, and wish her many years of continued success.”

Senator Ruiz commended Granato for her dedication and remarkable contributions to education. She highlighted Granato’s 34 years of service to Newark Public Schools that includes working as a classroom teacher, vice principal, principal, and supervisor before she became Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services.

Ruiz added that Granato has consistently prioritized creating a better learning environment for students. “In addition to her regular responsibilities, Carolyn has applied for and received grants to build playgrounds, update science labs, perform comprehensive building upgrades, develop programs to address at risk behavior, to continue the dual language program, and to enhance special education programs,” Ruiz said.

As she received the award, Granato expressed her gratitude and humility.

“This award comes from people that I admire, look up to, and have great respect for,” she said, acknowledging Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, his Chief of Staff, Phil Alagia, and Senator Ruiz.

Granato also reflected on her heritage and the broader significance of the recognition.

“I share this award, not only with my Italian American family here today, but also with all those who came from Italy in search of a better way of life. Their journeys mirror the stories we continue to see today,” she said.

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