Educator Mary Ruiz of New Jersey has been named the 2024 Middle School Teacher of the Year by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Photo Credit: Audacity, Inc.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has named Mary Ruiz of New Jersey, a professional educator and US veteran, as their Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2024.
Each year, the New Jersey VFW Teacher of the Year award recognizes three exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching patriotism to their students. Each year, a teacher at the elementary, junior high, and high school level whose classroom curriculum focuses on citizenship topics is recognized for this award.
“It is gratifying to know that my dedication to connecting our youth with military members and veterans is seen as important and noteworthy,” Mary says. “More gratifying are the rewards I receive in witnessing connections and friendships being formed through these efforts,” she continues.
Mary teaches basic reading skills in Stafford Township Intermediate School. She was nominated for the honor by VFW Post 12173. One of the classroom projects which led her to earn the recognition is a student-led food drive to homeless veterans in the area. She also organized a Veterans Day Ceremony where local veterans and student family members ate breakfast together, followed by a ceremony recognizing the veterans’ service. The event included guest speakers, a question and answer session, and veteran interaction with the fifth and sixth grade students. Also among the lessons and projects she has developed are Patriot Day lessons about 9/11, Veterans Day lessons, a Memorial Day Biography, and a Flag Walk with Flag Day lessons.
Mary earned her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a Concentration in Elementary Education. She earned her Master’s degree in Education from Stockton University. She also holds teaching certificates as a Special Education teacher and Reading Specialist. Additionally, she is a graduate of the Travis Manion Foundation Spartan Leadership Program. For her work in the classroom, Mary was named as the 2022-2023 Teacher of the Year in Stafford Township School District.
Before becoming a teacher, Mary served for ten years in the US Army, including two combat tours. By the time she was discharged, she had achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. But over the years, her devotion to her fellow veterans has not wavered. Outside of the classroom, Mary helps veterans transition from military service to civilian life. She also helps VFW officials organize mental health wellness programs and weekend retreats on Long Beach Island for transitioning veterans.
