Who Did The State Pick As Passaic County's Best Teacher?

WAYNE, NJ – A Wayne Valley High School teacher has been named one of the best educators in New Jersey.

Patrick Slater, a technology teacher, is among the 21 finalists announced Wednesday by the state Department of Education’s Teacher of the Year award.

Slater "has spent the past two decades teaching in environments ranging from an inner city middle school to an Ivy League graduate program" and "has spent the bulk of his career developing high quality classes to introduce high school students to design, visualization, and technology," according to a biography posted on the state education department website.

"Over the years, he has inspired hundreds of students to pursue careers in engineering, architecture, and design. He is also a former athletics coach who specialized in the hurdle events. Patrick's mentor strongly encouraged his belief in lifelong learning. Therefore he is responsive to the continuing and evolving needs of his students and communities and always seeks opportunities to enhance his knowledge, hone his craft and advocate for professional development opportunities of the highest caliber," the biography said.

One teacher from each of the state’s 21 counties was selected by groups of educators, administrators and parents and a winner of the state award will be announced in October.

A panel will pick the winner based on a video submission, written application and interviews with finalists.

Gov. Phil Murphy said, “These teachers reflect the exemplary quality of educational leadership that we see throughout our state.”

“New Jersey’s educators are among the best in this country, as evidenced by the success of our students,” said Education Commissioner Lamont O. Repollet. “The teachers who we recognize today instruct, inform, and inspire children to achieve success in school and beyond.”