Official Site of The State of New Jersey
Issue 17: September 2024
El Houcin Houssam
2024-2025 Essex County Teacher of the Year
West Side High School
Newark Public School District
My name is El Houcin Houssam, and I am the 2024-2025 Essex County Teacher of the Year. As a math teacher at West Side High School in the Newark Public School District, I know firsthand the excitement and anticipation that come with the start of a new school year. It’s a time to reflect on our purpose and reignite our passion for making a lasting difference in the lives of our students.
To our amazing students, as you walk into your classrooms this year, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Embrace the lessons that will not only help you succeed but also shape you into tomorrow's leaders. We, your teachers, are here to guide, support and inspire you to reach your full potential.
To my fellow educators, let’s begin this school year with a renewed sense of purpose. We are more than just teachers of subjects; we are mentors, motivators, and role models. Together, let’s uplift one another and create a learning environment where both students and teachers can thrive. We have the power to inspire change and growth, not just in the classroom, but in the world. Let’s make this school year one filled with joy, learning and endless possibilities!
Educator Resources for the New School Year: Learning Lounges and STAMP
The Office of Standards offers free, flexible, high-quality professional learning opportunities and helpful resources for educators through the Learning Lounges and the Standards Transparency and Mastery Platform (STAMP).
Learning Lounges
Learning Lounges are virtual professional learning experiences designed to provide an opportunity for you to connect with educators, gain fresh insights, and leave inspired to take your teaching to new levels. The sessions, led by members of the Office of Standards, are designed to assist you in elevating your classroom practices and empowering your students’ learning journeys.
This innovative series offers monthly sessions across all content areas. The sessions feature interactive workshops where participants engage in meaningful discussions with peers and gain valuable insights to inform teaching practices. Each session provides participants with content-specific strategies that can be implemented immediately.
Registration is required for all sessions and spaces are limited to 75 educators per session. Visit the NJDOE Events Registration page and search for “Lounge” to view the full schedule for this school year and secure your spot for this engaging virtual experience.
STAMP
The STAMP website is a comprehensive online platform that provides educators with a wealth of standards-aligned materials, lesson ideas, and instructional guidance. This valuable resource complements the Learning Lounge sessions by offering ongoing support for implementing effective teaching strategies and aligning instruction with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.