Vineland Educator Named Cumberland County Teacher of 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 Cumberland County Teacher of the Year is Jeffrey Martine from Anthony Rossi Elementary School in Vineland.

“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.

Cumberland County Teacher of the Year

Jeffrey Martine is a gifted & talented teacher at the Anthony Rossi Elementary School in the Vineland School District.

Jeff received a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in special education with a concentration in learning disabilities from American University in Washington, D.C.

He later earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, where his dissertation focused on informal teacher leadership.

Jeffrey taught special education for three years before joining Vineland Public Schools' inaugural Take FLIGHT gifted and talented program at Anthony Rossi Elementary School.

His early experience developed a strong commitment to differentiation, student advocacy, and equitable opportunities for learners. Jeffrey has helped students from four different elementary schools enter his classroom as strangers and leave as a united community of compassionate scholars.

At Rossi Elementary School, he directs the drama club and has successfully led five school productions. Jeffrey also supervises the school safety patrol, Culture Exchange Club, and Respect and Recreation Club, an after-school program focused on sportsmanship and teamwork.

In the community, he mentors students through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cumberland and Salem Counties.

Jeffrey is defined by his commitment to establishing and nurturing collaborative school cultures, empowering teacher leadership, and advancing equitable opportunities for all students.

Jeff's vision of leadership extends beyond his own classroom and is grounded in the belief that strong relationships, student advocacy, and shared responsibility can positively influence an entire school community.