Hillsborough Elementary Teacher Wins Above And 'BEE'yond Teacher Essay Contest

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — A Hillsborough Elementary teacher was among eight teachers to be named a winner in Doherty Enterprises-owned Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar's 9th annual Above and ‘BEE’yond Teacher Essay Contest.

Ms. Schurick of Woods Road Elementary School was one of the eight exceptional New Jersey educators chosen.

Schurick and the other winning teachers — each nominated by their own students — will receive a $500 sponsorship check to enrich their classrooms for the 2025-2026 school year, as well a special end-of-year party for their students at Applebee’s.

The 2025 New Jersey Above and ‘BEE’yond Essay Contest Winners are:

• Jordyn Gangemi, Dickerson Elementary
• Ms. Schurick, Woods Road Elementary School
• Kimberly Ranges, Payne Tech
• Alexis Campoamor, Barnegat High School
• Mrs. Peck, Manchester Township Elementary
• Miss Morris, CJCP New Brunswick Campus
• Caroline Forde, Edgar Middle School
• Mrs. Doughty, Don Bosco Prep High School

In January, the Doherty-owned Applebee’s restaurants asked students in local elementary, middle, and high schools to submit essays explaining how their teachers went above and "BEEyond."

A panel of judges selected the top eight essays and awarded those special teachers with a check for $500 to better their classrooms and the opportunity to host an exclusive end-of-year class celebration at their local Doherty-owned Applebee’s restaurant.

"Each year, we’re inspired by the stories students share about their teachers’ dedication and passion," said Kevin Coughlin, Director of Operations for Doherty Enterprises. "Congratulations to these deserving educators—we’re thrilled to support their efforts in creating dynamic, engaging classrooms."