LONG VALLEY, NJ — Three teachers from the West Morris Regional High School
District have been named New Jersey Exemplary Educators in 2023, including two from Long Valley.
The goal of the award program is to identify outstanding educators for special recognition, alternating between elementary (Pre-K to 5) and secondary (6–12) every school year, according to the state website. A state certificate of recognition is given out to those deemed exemplary educators. Barry Buchanan, a teacher of special education at West Morris Central and Daniel Coiro, a teacher of science at West Morris Central, were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to education and commitment to excellence in teaching. Nathaniel Ward, a teacher of English at West Morris Mendham, was also awarded.
This year, across New Jersey, only 123 educators received this honor. “Mr. Buchanan, Mr. Coiro, and Mr. Ward exemplify what it means to be an educator in West Morris. Dedicated to their craft, their students, and the larger school community, these gentlemen engage, inspire, and motivate their students and colleagues, providing a model of excellence for the teaching profession,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Melissa Heike, said.
Buchanan has been at West Morris Central for twenty-one years, the last fourteen as a special education teacher. “Mr. Buchanan motivates students in the classroom and on the field to give 100%. Learners of all capabilities, from our Life Skills students to our IB Career Programme candidates, excel because he meets them where they are, accepts them, and gently helps them move forward in their learning,” Michael Reinknecht, Director of Special Education, said. Corio joined the faculty at West Morris Central in 2018. Heike said that she considered Corio a “passionate” educator. “He demonstrates passion for teaching and learning, passion for chemistry and robotics, and, most importantly, passion for kids,” she added. “Dan spearheaded the effort to resurrect our robotics team. Not only was the team more successful in competition last year than we could have ever imagined, but his involvement in the program significantly increased enrollment in our robotics courses. I can’t wait to see what the team accomplishes this year.”
The nomination process began earlier this year, when teachers, parents, and community members nominated deserving educators throughout the state. An online application process was completed by district administrators and supervisors earlier this year.
Qualifications for the award include strong knowledge and skills, an inspirational presence and a positive impact on students, colleagues and the greater school community.