N.J. Names Newark Math Instructor Essex County Teacher of Year

Leer en español

NEWARK — A math teacher at West Side High School chalks up his state recognition to the hard work of his colleagues and himself.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE TAPINTO.NET NEWSLETTER

The state Department of Education has named El Houcin Houssam the Essex County Teacher of the Year. The DOE announced teachers of the year for each of New Jersey’s 21 counties earlier this month.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always strived to inspire my students to not only excel academically but to develop a love for math and also for learning,” Houssam said in an interview. The recognition from the state reflects the hard work Houssam and his colleagues put in to create a positive and impactful learning environment, he added.

Houssam holds a master’s in teaching from Montclair State University, and a bachelor’s in mathematics of finance and actuarial science from New Jersey Institute of Technology.

“With just five years of teaching experience in mathematics, he has expertly guided young adults in their pursuit of careers in science, engineering, and mathematics, instilling in them a passion for learning and discovery,” the DOE said. “Houssam’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment defines him as an outstanding educator.”

DOWNLOAD THE FREE TAPINTO APP FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS. AVAILABLE IN THE APPLE STORE AND THE GOOGLE PLAY STORE .

Houssam is an active participant in the school’s improvement panel, in which he offers insights that enhance the students’ educational experience, the state said. He also serves as the adviser to the Debate Club.

“I’m a teacher of math, but being the adviser of the Debate Club helped me to build very strong relationships with students outside the classroom, which also helps in the classroom,” Houssam said. “Having a good relationship with the students has helped me in many different ways.”

The DOE says Houssam’s ultimate goal is to make a lasting difference in his students' lives, “equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate the complexities of both mathematics and the world beyond the classroom.”

Houssam thanked West Side High School Principal Akbar Cook, Vice Principal Rosemary Morin and Superintendent Roger León.

For Houssam, teaching is about preparing children for life.

“I believe I should prepare students not only for the standardized tests but for all the challenges and for what’s coming in their future,” he said.

Previous Coverage

• Newark Math Teacher With Big Heart Named ‘Teacher of the Year’
• How West Side High School’s Urban Farm Is Promoting Sustainability In Newark
• West Side High School Principal Pays it Forward

For more local news, visit TAPinto.net