Teacher Of Year In Hudson County Is European-Trained Chef With Finance Degree

JERSEY CITY, NJ — Should high school students know how to cook, and what goes into their food? Thanks to one public teacher in Hudson County, many are learning just that.

A new round of New Jersey public school teachers of the year was announced last week, one for each county. For Hudson County, a high school teacher has nabbed the honor for 2025-2026. He also happens to be a European-trained chef who holds a degree in finance.

John Palsi, a culinary arts teacher at County Prep High School, is the honoree for this year.

County Prep is one of several county high schools in the Hudson County Schools of Technology district, which educates kids throughout the county. The schools are public schools, but require an application. Some schools also ask students to pick a concentration.

If they're interested in the culinary arts, they'll likely encounter John Palsi.

As the state of New Jersey mentioned on their website for the honorees, he "brings more than two decades of real-world culinary experience to the classroom. A European-trained chef and educator, he holds a master’s degree in finance, another master’s degree in educational leadership from Saint Peter’s University, and a bachelor’s degree in business management from Fairleigh Dickinson University."

Recipe For Success

Palsi previously served as executive chef at Schering Plough and the Helmsley Park Lane Hotel in New York City and owned Restaurant Essence in Wallington, N.J.

For the past 24 years, he has taught at County Prep High School, guiding students to success in competitions like Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and SkillsUSA.

"His commitment to service is demonstrated through community initiatives such as preparing annual Thanksgiving meals for local group homes and cooking for Jersey City Youth Foundation events," noted the state educators.

Food Truck Program

He helped launch the school’s food truck program and the Montgomery Grill outdoor kitchen, which offer students immersive experiences in food prep, customer service, and culinary techniques.

Parsi is also an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

"His dedication blends professional excellence with a heart for mentorship and community service," noted the state educators.

"John demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to student success, utilizing innovating and effective instructional practices that cater to diverse learning styles. His classrooms are vibrant, engaging spaces where students feel empowered to experiment and ultimately succeed."

Find out more and see the other winners on the state website here.