Cape May County Has a New Teacher of the Year

On Monday, the New Jersey Department of Education announced the 21 educators named New Jersey’s County Teachers of the Year for the 2026-2027 school year.

The teachers were recognized at an awards ceremony today at The College of New Jersey in Ewing.

The Cape May County Teacher of the Year is Carly Crisanti from Lower Cape May Regional High School.

“The  County Teachers of the Year exemplify the excellence, creativity, and dedication that define the teaching profession in New Jersey,” said Dr. Lily Laux, Commissioner of Education.

“School can change the trajectory of a child’s life – and great teachers are the heart of that change, providing students with meaningful learning opportunities that make them feel safe, supported, and successful. We are proud to celebrate these educators and the positive influence they have on countless students and families.”

The County Teachers of the Year will network with colleagues throughout the state and serve as ambassadors for New Jersey’s public schools during the school year.

The New Jersey State Teacher of the Year will go on to represent New Jersey in competing for the title of National Teacher of the Year.

Cape May County Teacher of the Year

Carly Crisanti is an art teacher at Lower Cape May Regional High School in the Lower Cape May Regional School District.

Crisanti received bachelor's degrees in studio art and secondary education from William Paterson University. She began her teaching career in 2015 with Passaic Public Schools, where she developed a strong foundation in collaboration with fellow educators.

Carly returned to Cape May in 2018 to teach at her alma mater, Lower Cape May Regional High School, and has continued to strengthen the school's visual arts program.

She introduced Advanced Placement Studio Art, established a chapter of the National Art Honor Society, and co-founded the return of the Celebration of the Arts. This collaborative event highlights student work across art, fashion, television media, woodworking, engineering, and other creative disciplines.

Carly also provides opportunities for students to use their artistic skills in service to the school and surrounding community.

Her students contribute to displays, murals, and fundraisers, including an Empty Bowls event in which students sold handmade clay bowls to raise money for a local outreach center.

Beyond school, she works as a freelance illustrator, creates mixed-media artwork, and has begun studying Deaf culture and American Sign Language.

Carly is defined by her goal of serving as a role model for students the way her own teachers inspired her.

She leads with curiosity and open-mindedness, believing that educators make the greatest difference when they learn about students' individual experiences, struggles, and perspectives and use that knowledge to prioritize what matters most.