Teacher Of Year Announced For Bergen County: Guess Who?

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — A new round of New Jersey teachers of the year has been announced, one for each county.

For Bergen County, a high school science teacher has nabbed the honor for 2025-2026.

The winner is an educator at Pascack Hills High School, a regional school in the Pascack Valley Regional High School District. The high school, located in Montvale, serves students in Montvale, Hillsdale, River Vale, and Woodcliff Lake.

"With over twenty-five years in education, Aarti Mallya brings deep expertise and a passion for empowering students," said the state in its announcement.

They added, "After 13 years as the District Supervisor of Science and Technology Education in the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, she returned to the classroom to reconnect with students."

Researched Cancer And More

They offered this biography about Mallya:

"She earned her Ph.D. from Columbia University, where she authored a dissertation on expanding science learning beyond the classroom and co-authored an inquiry-based science and nutrition curriculum.

"Aarti currently teaches AP Biology, Honors Research in Molecular Genetics, and freshman biology. In her Research in Molecular Genetics course, she collaborates with the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University and mentors students in conducting original research submitted to the North Jersey International Science and Engineering Qualifying Fair. She also mentors aspiring educators as a Clinical Faculty Member at Montclair State University.

"A former researcher in oncology and cardiovascular pharmacology, Aarti brings real-world relevance to her science instruction. She creates opportunities for students to engage with science in the broader community by organizing field trips, mentoring research projects, and leading conservation trips to Costa Rica. Aarti advises the Science National Honor Society, Medical Club, and Research Club.

"As a frequent presenter at local and national conferences, and a certified Wellness and Life Coach, she is committed to helping students thrive academically and personally."

Back in May, two other public high school teachers in Bergen County were named "Outstanding" by Princeton University. Read about that here.