West Essex High School Art Instructor Wins Teacher of the Year Award

Every year teachers and staff at West Essex Regional High School cast their votes for the school’s teacher of the year and the finally tally is in.

High school art teacher Eileen Dormer was awarded the Governor’s Teacher of the Year award on Monday. Dormer has been a familiar face at the high school for the past 35 years. 

“It was astonishingly gratifying” said Dormer after West Essex High School Principal Gary Suda presented her with the award. “I am thrilled.”

“Her students and colleagues describe her as both inspiring and dedicated,” said Suda. “One only has to walk the halls of our beautiful high school to appreciate her contributions to our students and to the school,” noting the artwork hanging throughout the school. 

Dormer said she was first told about the award at a surprise meeting with friends, staff and family. She recalled her sons even were there dressed in suits.  

This past year, Dormer taught drawing and composition, studio art 1 and art history.  

When asked about her teaching style, Dormer said it was simple: “My style is students first, always."