'Superstar' Nassau Educator Honored With Yale Emotional Intelligence Award

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Port Washington is celebrating the accomplishments of an elementary school counselor, who was recognized with an award by the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence.

Jennifer Biblowitz, a school counselor at John Philip Sousa Elementary School, won the 2023 Marvin Maurer Award for Excellence in Emotional Intelligence. The annual award recognizes outstanding educators who significantly impact children's lives by integrating social-emotional learning into their teaching.

Biblowitz was one of just four recipients of the prestigious national award, which recognizes educators who embody Marvin Maurer's belief that students' feelings matter, and who are committed to being emotionally intelligent role models.

Biblowitz implemented the so-called "RULER" approach. The program helps students identify and manage their emotions.

Dr. Marc Bracket, who founded the program, called Biblowitz a "RULER Superstar" for her support and implementation.

The Port Washington school district has committed to integrating social-emotional learning into its curriculum. The RULER approach is one of several strategies it uses to help students develop positive personal attributes and foster a positive learning atmosphere.

"Jen is at the very top of the list regarding those I hold in the highest regard," Dr. Michael Hynes, the superintendent, said in a news release. "Everyone loves her, knows she puts children first and never gives up, making sure every child gets what they need and deserve. Jen is a unique talent who has made an incredible impact on those she has served."

Sousa Principal Meg Sheehan said Biblowitz "lives and breathes" the RULER philosophy every day, and has "ensured that our RULER tapestry here at Sousa will remain strong forever."

The district congratulated Biblowitz on the recognition and encouraged others to follow her in prioritizing social-emotional learning in their classrooms.