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The New Jersey Department of Education has selected Alyssa (Beres) Bitar of Manchester Regional High School – a 2014 graduate of William Paterson University’s College of Education – as Passaic County Teacher of the Year.
Bitar, who double majored in secondary education and biology at WP, was chosen as one of 21 educators from across the state named 2025-2026 New Jersey County Teachers of the Year. She is an engineering and STEM teacher.
“Becoming the Passaic County Teacher of the Year is one of my proudest accomplishments in education,” Bitar says. “It is not just about me. It shines a light on the incredible work my students do, the colleagues who inspire me, and the community I care so deeply about.”
Since 2014, Bitar has built the engineering program at Manchester Regional High School from the ground up. She developed a multi-year curriculum that blends project-based learning, computer aided design, and real-world design challenges. Her students earn certifications, build portfolios, and engage in collaborative problem-solving that prepares them for STEM careers.
A published co-author in scientific journals, Bitar also mentors early-career educators in her district, advises the Science and STEM Clubs, leads STEAM Nights, and organizes a Summer STEM Camp that promotes student leadership and hands-on learning. “What matters most to me is helping students gain confidence in themselves, especially in STEM, where many begin unsure of their abilities,” she explains.
Bitar was recognized as a County Teacher of the Year for her commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and positivity, the New Jersey Department of Education announced on its website. “Her classroom is a hub of curiosity, collaboration, and connection, where every student is supported in becoming a confident problem-solver, critical thinker, and future-ready changemaker,” the State’s announcement continues.
Bitar credits William Paterson professors – both in education and in the sciences – with “fully shaping” the foundation of who she is as an educator. “I learned early on that success is not always linear and the most important thing we can do is meet people where they are,” the alumna explains. “Teaching is about connection, honesty, and believing in students.”
Being honored as Passaic County’s Teacher of the Year, Bitar says, is deeply meaningful.
“Teaching is often referred to as a calling, but for me, it is also a choice I make every single day, even when it is hard. Being honored in this way reminds me that the late nights, the hours of planning, the relationships built, and the faith I put into my students are worth it,” she explains.
Bitar, who went on to earn a master’s degree in science curriculum and development from Concordia University, is certified to teach both biology and chemistry and holds multiple endorsements through Project Lead the Way in engineering.
County Teachers of the Year will network with colleagues throughout the state and serve as ambassadors for New Jersey’s public schools during this academic school year. A panel of educators will then select the New Jersey State Teacher of the Year from among them based on written applications, video submissions, and interviews with the top finalists. The New Jersey State Teacher of the Year will go on to compete for the title of National Teacher of the Year.
“I credit much of my success as an educator to the strong foundation I built during my time at William Paterson,” Bitar says. She is currently planning a visit to campus to speak to students pursuing careers in education. “The mentorship, training, and sense of purpose I gained as an undergraduate continue to shape the work I do every day in the classroom at Manchester Regional High School. Bringing an engineering program to students who may not have had access to one before has been one of my greatest joys.”
