Dedicated West Orange Teacher Named ‘Educator Of The Year’

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A dedicated teacher at West Orange High School recently earned a nod as “Educator of the Year” from the West Orange Chamber of Commerce.

Catherine Connors was honored at the West Orange Chamber of Commerce awards dinner, held at The Wilshire Grand Hotel last month.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Connors pursued her education both locally and in Connecticut. She earned her bachelor of science in biology from Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, and went on to complete her master of teaching in education from the University of Bridgeport.

That schooling has been put to good work in West Orange, her supervisors say.

“Since joining the school in 2014, Catherine has made a significant impact in the field of health sciences, pioneering a dual enrollment program with Rutgers University that grants students college credits,” district administrators said.

School officials continued:

“Not only does Catherine excel in the classroom, but she also goes above and beyond as an advisor for the student council, overseeing student liaisons for the board of education, and advising the Mountaineer Mentors program. Her commitment to the community is evident through her involvement in various scholarship and community events. As a member of the West Orange Older Adults Advisory Committee, she enhanced the unique intergenerational reading program that brings students together with older adults in town, fostering important conversations and a sense of connection.”

West Orange High School Principal Oscar Guerrero expressed his admiration for Connors, calling her an “exceptional educator” who always goes the extra mile for her students.

“Her dedication, passion, and innovative initiatives have made a lasting impact on our school community,” Guerrero said. “We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and congratulate her on receiving this well-deserved recognition.”

Superintendent Hayden Moore also gave the seasoned educator a vote of confidence.

“Catherine's unwavering dedication to our students and her unwavering commitment to always advocate for what is best for them is truly commendable,” Moore said. “Her ability to build trust and create a supportive learning environment where students feel confident in her guidance is a testament to her exceptional teaching.”

“We are proud to have Catherine as part of our team, and this recognition is well-deserved,” Moore added.

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