BRICK – A Lake Riviera Middle School teacher was honored as the 2023-24 Teacher of the Year for Ocean County.
Jaclyn Potochar, a 7th grade teacher at Lake Riviera, was one of 21 educators announced by the State Department of Education as part of the Governor’s Educator of the Year program.
Potochar has been a teacher in the Brick school district for the past 15 years, teaching English Language Arts and Science. She’s recognized for her leadership and contribution inside and outside the classroom.
“Brick Township Public Schools is fortunate to have such a dedicated teacher in our ranks. Mrs. Potochar is a shining example of the District Vision: ‘Student-Centered, Teacher-Led, & Community Connected,’” Dr. Thomas Farrell, Superintendent of Schools said.
Potochar works with a very diverse cohort of students who truly benefit socially, emotionally, and academically from her ability to build relationships, her excellent pedagogy, and her skill in implementing interventions to meet the individual needs of each of her students, the district said in a statement.
She is a member of the school community, and a key member of the School Improvement Panel, School Climate Team, and National Junior Honor Society Council.
“Her contributions to the Lake Riviera Middle School climate and culture are profound. She not only is an active participant in district and school based professional development, she attends many out of district PD experiences and is often requested as a professional development presenter for school-based initiatives,” Lake Riviera Middle School Principal Kevin Campbell said.
This year, Potochar provided turnkey training for Academic Teaming to her colleagues.
In addition, Potochar has a strong connection with the community. She is the Lake Riviera Middle School Relay for Life team captain, she organized a holiday meal train for the needy, participates in charity 5K races for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and assisted with Red Cross blood and clothing drives.
“The entire district is proud to have Mrs. Potochar represent Brick Schools as Ocean County Teacher of the Year. Jaclyn represents the very best that public education has to offer,” said Dr. Alyce Anderson, Director of Curriculum and Instruction.
On August 10, Potochar was honored as 2023-24 Ocean County Teacher of the Year at the Governor’s Educator of the Year Award Ceremony at The College of New Jersey.
