Students Show Some Love For Newark’s 2019 Teacher Of The Year

NEWARK, NJ — Tamara Leveridge knew she wanted to be a teacher ever since she was in the third grade. That dream never left her throughout her childhood. It became her reality. And on Monday, her career as one of the most beloved educators in her city took another turn when she was named the Newark Public School District’s “Teacher of the Year.”

During a surprise ceremony in Leveridge’s classroom at Ivy Hill School, district officials, students and family members paid tribute to the hardworking and talented teacher, showering her with gifts of flowers and balloons.

Leveridge said she was surprised by the enormous show of appreciation.

“I do this for the students,” she said. “When I was in the third grade, I decided I wanted to be a teacher. That dream never left me and became my reality. I love my work and the opportunity to help children.”

That attitude shows in the way her students glow when asked about their teacher.

“She cares about us, she helps us,” one of Leveridge’s students said. “She is just nice.”

According to district administrators, Leveridge has been an educator for 11 years. The flexible staff member has taught at multiple levels, from the primary grades to middle school.

“What makes Ms. Leveridge a well-rounded educator, is that she most importantly understands and sets as a priority, what I call the most significant heartbeat of a school – and that is the child, the student,” Superintendent Roger León said.

“[Tamara] Leveridge is an extraordinary professional, who through her compassion and love for students and teaching, is changing lives every day,” León added. “We are honored and grateful that she is a member of the extraordinary group of teachers who call the Newark Board of Education and Newark Public Schools home.”

Ivy Hill School Principal Dorrice Rayam had similar words of praise for Leveridge’s contributions to the community.

“What makes Ms. Leveridge an exceptional teacher is her drive for excellence,” Rayam said. “[She] doesn’t confine herself to the textbook or traditional methods of teaching, she finds creative ways to make the material accessible to their students, and keeps up-to-date with best practices. She strives to create interactive lessons. She believes in the importance of providing rigorous and differentiated instruction.”

Perhaps most importantly of all, she’s earned the respect and admiration of her students, Rayam said.

“She has earned this respect and admiration by serving as a role model for her students and always has their best interest in mind,” Rayam said. “She treats students fairly, setting high expectations and is consistent with discipline. Ms. Leveridge goes beyond interacting with students on an instructional level and works to make sure their emotional needs are met, as well.”

Leveridge has a positive relationship with colleagues, regularly collaborating with other staff and offering to mentor other educators, Rayam said.

Administrators plan to officially honor their new Teacher of the Year – along with one teacher from every Newark Public School – at a breakfast later this week.

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