Red Bank Educator Named NJ County Teacher Of The Year

RED BANK, NJ — An educator from Red Bank Middle School was named one of the New Jersey Department of Education's 21 county teachers of the year.

Alyssa Geary is a Special Education and English Language Arts teacher for grades seven and eight.

"In my classroom I want my students to feel love and I want them to feel like they can be their authentic selves," Geary said in a video presentation. "To be a teacher in my school is a privilege and an honor."

Geary said that a big part of her role as an educator is to keep up with an ever-evolving reality.

"Your students change every year and their needs are shifting every year so what you have to bring yourself to the table is always going to be evolving," she said.

She also praised her students for being thoughtful, inspiring and hopeful.

"They also have such patience and kindness and not just for their teacher, but for each other," Geary said. "It's a really happy place to be and I'm really lucky to be a part of that community and a part of their journey."

From the list of 21 teachers, a panel of educators will select one New Jersey teacher of the year based on written applications, video submissions, and interviews with the top finalists. This person is typically announced at the State Board of Education’s October meeting and will go on to represent New Jersey in competing for the title of National Teacher of the Year.

“New Jersey public schools have been recognized as the best in the nation and the strength of our schools is driven by our dynamic educators,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “Congratulations to all of the County Teachers of the Year. They are true exemplars of the innovative instruction and educational greatness that New Jersey offers to students.”