Serving as County Teachers of the Year was far more than a title; it was a year of growth, purpose and possibility. As we reflect on this remarkable journey, we recognize how much we learned, how many doors were opened and how often we were invited to contribute in spaces where important decisions were being made. Looking back, we are proud of the impact we made and confident that the relationships, initiatives and advocacy born from this experience will leave a lasting legacy.
Hear the voices of several county winners as they look back on the year.
Karen Carey-Lynch
Union County
This journey has shown me that advocacy is not a single speech or moment of leadership. It is a lifelong commitment to creating opportunities, removing barriers and ensuring that every learner has someone willing to stand beside them.
Serving as County Teacher of the Year opened doors I never imagined possible. My voice found a place in conversations with the NJSBA, NJLEADS, NNSTOY, NJAGC, NJEA, UCEA and the NJDOE, where I was able to represent not only my own experiences but also the needs of countless students and educators across New Jersey.
I embraced every opportunity to champion advocacy, meaningful partnerships, accountability and mental health awareness. My journey has become a mission to help others discover that their voices and their stories have the power to create lasting change.
Christa Delaney
Atlantic County
I have taught at Egg Harbor Township High School for twenty-two years and currently serve as an Advanced Placement Environmental Science teacher. I have greatly valued my experience as Atlantic County Teacher of the Year, where I proudly represented my county, collaborated with fellow educators across New Jersey and gained insight into innovative practices happening in schools throughout the state.
Shakida Faniel
Mercer County
Being named Mercer County Teacher of the Year has been both emotional and deeply inspiring. Being celebrated by Mercer County, NJEA, the New Jersey Department of Education and my community made me feel truly valued in a profession that often asks so much of its educators.
This recognition reminded me that leadership in education is not always about titles; it is about influence, service and advocacy. It reinforced my responsibility to speak up for teachers, support students, encourage innovation and help create school communities where educators feel trusted, supported, respected and heard.
I feel tremendous pride being an educator in New Jersey and take seriously the responsibility we have to shape the future of education.
Kiran Masud
Somerset County
Serving as Somerset County Teacher of the Year has been one of the most growth-inducing experiences of my career. I was provided opportunities to connect with educators, students and community members across the county, share innovative ideas and advocate for the important work happening in our schools every day.
I have gained confidence in my knowledge and experiences, as well as a deeper appreciation for the dedication and creativity that exist throughout public education.
This experience has raised the bar for me and further strengthened my commitment to education, service-learning and creating opportunities that help all students feel seen and heard.
Dr. Tiffanie ThrBak
Cumberland County
I used this platform to urge fellow educators to step out from behind their classroom doors, and showcase the incredible work happening inside our schools.
This year offered transformative opportunities to expand my impact. I cherished attending the National Teachers Hall of Fame, serving as a delegate at the NEA-RA in Florida and spending this past summer working alongside and serving middle school students from Africa. These global and national connections enriched my vision as an advocate and leader.
This rewarding, fulfilling year has cemented my identity as a community servant and champion for equity. I will treasure this experience for a lifetime.
We want to thank the state of New Jersey for such a great experience and for the honor of being recognized for this wonderful opportunity.
We wish the best of luck to the incoming 2026-2027 cohort.
Alyssa Bitar
Passaic County
This year as the 2026 Passaic County Teacher of the Year has been one of the greatest honors of my career, allowing me to amplify the voices of educators while learning from extraordinary teachers across New Jersey. It has reaffirmed that our greatest impact comes not only from what we teach, but from the relationships we build, the curiosity we inspire and the confidence we give students to believe that they can solve the world’s greatest challenges.
Pamela Eng
Middlesex County
I became a teacher because of a teacher. The educators who believed in me, challenged me and made me feel seen inspired me to choose this profession. Even today, they continue to shape the teacher I strive to be.
One of the most unforgettable moments of this journey was welcoming my fifth-grade teacher into my third-grade classroom. Watching the teacher who inspired me see the classroom I had built was a full-circle moment that reminded me why relationships matter. Long after students forget a lesson, they remember how a teacher made them feel.
Through this experience, I stepped outside my comfort zone to present at the NJEA Convention and represent the incredible educators of Middlesex County. Each opportunity was a little intimidating, but each one helped me grow and find my voice.
Just as meaningful have been the friendships I have built with my CTOYS cohort and educators across New Jersey, reminding me that teaching is a profession rooted in collaboration.