Montclair Alumni Recognized as County Teachers of the Year
Posted in: College News and Events, Homepage News and Events, Newark-Montclair Urban Teacher Residency News, Teacher Education
Bergen County: Margarita Diakos
Margarita Diakos completed the College for Education and Engaged Learning’s Principal Certification program and earned the 2023 Promising Leader award. Recipients are recognized for carrying out the program vision: “Our graduates are visionary and inspirational leaders who champion socially just schools and organizations committed to excellence in teaching and learning.”
“Margarita graduated summa cum laude from The College of New Jersey with a master’s degree in special education and general education and a bachelor’s degree in psychology.
With eleven years of experience as a special education teacher, she currently leads the Student Transition Education Program for neurodiverse students, ages eighteen to twenty-one, at Ramsey High School.
Beyond these endeavors, Margarita contributes to the Ramsey School District’s Inclusion and Belonging Advisory Committee, working alongside administration, educators, students, and parents in making the Ramsey community a more inclusive place for all stakeholders.
She strongly advocates for embracing and celebrating diversity, making it her mission to dismantle barriers for her students. Margarita’s relentless efforts consistently enhance learning opportunities for students of all abilities. Through collaborative efforts, she strives to work towards providing an exceptional education to all her students to cultivate resilient, responsible, empathetic, and engaged global citizens.” Excerpts from New Jersey Department of Education.
Essex County: El Houcin Houssam
El Houcin Houssam holds a master’s degree in teaching from Montclair State University and is a graduate of the Newark-Montclair Urban Teacher Residency (NMUTR), an initial teacher certification program for college graduates and career changers with a deep commitment to urban education. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics of finance and actuarial science from the 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.
As an active participant on the school improvement panel, he offers valuable insights to enhance the educational experience for all students. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, El Houcin serves as the advisor of the Debate Club, where he nurtures critical thinking and communication skills among students beyond the classroom.
He demonstrates leadership and innovation in and outside of the classroom by contributing his ideas and expertise with his colleagues, students, and families which fosters a culture of continuous improvement and responsiveness to the diverse needs of the school’s educational community.
El Houcin’s ultimate goal is to make a lasting difference in the lives of his students, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate the complexities of both mathematics and the world beyond the classroom.” Excerpts from New Jersey Department of Education.
Sussex County: Mary Houghtaling
Mary Houghtaling holds a master’s degree in English from Montclair as well as a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Stockton University.
“Currently enrolled in a master’s program in Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Stockton University, she demonstrates a dedication to understanding critical issues. With two decades of teaching experience at her school, Mary has earned recognition from students and administration for her innovative projects and inclusive teaching methods.
She works hard to positively influence her students, encouraging them to do things they never thought possible and share gifts they did not even know they had.
Mary’s commitment to Holocaust education led to the Alfred Lerner Fellowship and the establishment of the Holocaust and Genocide Research Center at her school in 2023. Additionally, she received the 2019 Mark Schonwetter Grant for Holocaust Education, the 2023 Joan Lavine Keats Teacher’s Grant, and the 2023 Human Rights Education Youth in Action Award.
Mary’s story epitomizes continuous growth, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her students, education, and community.” Excerpts from New Jersey Department of Education.
Warren County: Jennifer Mazziotta-Walter
At Montclair, Jennifer Mazziotta-Walter received the Gifted and Talented Education graduate certificate. This certification provides aspiring and practicing classroom teachers, resource specialists, educational consultants, administrators, and parents with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully teach students who demonstrate exceptional performance in intellectual, creative, or artistic areas and students who may benefit from specialized instruction and activities within specific content areas.
“She also received her bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Arcadia University and earned her post-baccalaureate certification and master’s degree in art education from Kutztown University.
Another grant Jennifer secured funds for was a sensory and community garden, designed by the gifted and talented students, to enhance the school and provide produce for the community and cafeteria.
In 2013, she received the Minx M. Auerbach Award for Excellence in Education and in 2023, had students’ work published in Davis Publication’s middle school textbook Experience Art. Jennifer serves as the membership chair on the executive board of the Warren County Consortium for Student Enrichment.
Through the consortium, she orchestrates the fifth and sixth-grade Battle of the Minds tournament for Warren County, co-organizes the Pringle Project, and helps facilitate a virtual parent seminar, supporting parents and teachers of gifted and talented students.
Jennifer is always looking for opportunities to develop professionally to benefit her students. She is dedicated to creating exciting opportunities for all students and promoting a lifelong love for learning by embracing joy every day through their education.” Excerpts from New Jersey Department of Education.
Read more Alumni success stories here.