Ocean City Teacher Named To 2026 IBX Honor Roll

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City High School psychology teacher and boys basketball coach John Bruno has been named to the 2026 IBX Honor Roll, a joint initiative of Independence Blue Cross and the Philadelphia Phillies.

The Ocean City School District said Bruno was selected for his dedication to education and for positively impacting students' social and emotional well-being.

Subscribe

The recognition placed Bruno among six educators chosen from the Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey region after IBX received thousands of nominations this year, according to the district.

As an IBX Honor Roll recipient, Bruno received a $500 gift card, an on-field experience and recognition at Citizens Bank Park during the Philadelphia Phillies game on Sept. 26, recognition on ballpark concourse signage and across IBX social media, and an IBX swag bag that included a Phillies jersey and cap.

"It is a very humbling feeling to be honored as an individual, but I feel the IBX Honor Roll program is recognition on behalf of all teachers," said Bruno. "The program brings attention to the many teachers who have dedicated their lives to helping young people grow, from kindergarten all the way through high school."

Bruno shared the Citizens Bank Park experience with his wife, Karen; daughter, Chelsea; son-in-law, Matt; and granddaughter, Ryleigh, who is 1 year old, according to the district. Ocean City High School Principal Dr. Wendy O'Neal and her family also attended.

"It was a wonderful night and the perfect way to celebrate John's exceptional work as an OCHS educator and coach," said O'Neal. "He is a positive role-model for our students and is dedicated to helping each one on their educational journey."

Bruno has been teaching for more than four decades and has served as the boys basketball head coach for 37 years, according to the district. The district said he earned Ocean City High School Teacher of the Year in 2023, was named local Sportsperson of the Decade in 2020 and received the Al Carino Boys Basketball Club Coach of the Year award in 2026. He also secured his 500th career coaching win in 2025 and led the team to a 2026 Group 3 boys basketball championship, according to the district.

"Teaching has been such an incredible calling, and I have been able to share so many wonderful experiences with my students in and out of the classroom," said Bruno. "Playing a small part on their road to their future can be so rewarding."