Melissa Brino Named New Jersey Teacher of the Year

The veteran educator has been recognized for her excellence in teaching at Saint Mary School in Williamstown.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration of an empty wooden desk with a lamp and glass beaker in a sunlit classroom. — Melissa Brino of Saint Mary School in Williamstown has been named the 2026 New Jersey Nonpublic School Teacher of the Year. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The New Jersey Council for American Private Education has named Melissa Brino the 2026 New Jersey Nonpublic School Teacher of the Year. Brino serves as a vice principal and eighth-grade teacher at Saint Mary School.

Why it matters

The award recognizes educators who show exceptional commitment to their students and academic excellence. Brino was selected by a committee to honor her contribution to the state's private school system.

Brino has 25 total years of experience as a Catholic school teacher, including 10 years at Saint Mary School. The New Jersey Council for American Private Education has operated since 1993.

The players

Melissa Brino

She is a veteran educator currently serving as vice principal and eighth-grade teacher at Saint Mary School.

New Jersey Council for American Private Education

This organization represents over 900 schools and 160,000 students across the state.

The details

Brino supports the Office of Catholic Schools by implementing science, ELA, and social studies curriculums across the institution. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rutgers University.

1993: The New Jersey Council for American Private Education was founded.
2002: Brino began her teaching career.
2017: Brino began teaching at Saint Mary School.
October 6, 2026: Brino was named Teacher of the Year.
October 13, 2026: A reception will be held at the Diocese of Trenton Pastoral Center.

Culture Shift

This recognition highlights the ongoing efforts of private educational institutions to formalize teacher appreciation programs within the state. It reflects a growing emphasis on professional standards across New Jersey's private school network.

The award highlights the quality of instruction available to students attending Saint Mary School in Williamstown. Parents and students may see increased community focus on the school's academic programs following this state-level recognition.

The takeaway

Recognizing veteran educators helps maintain high standards in the nonpublic school sector. This award provides a benchmark for excellence that other teachers can aspire to within their own classrooms.