NEWARK, N.J. – To mark the close of Teacher Appreciation Week, New Jersey Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz visited West Side High School to recognize the exceptional work of West Side High School educators and students.

During her visit, Senator Ruiz presented Essex County’s 2024-25 Teacher of the Year, El Houcin Houssam, with a Senate Resolution commending his outstanding contributions to education and his service to Newark students.

Following the presentation, Superintendent León and Principal Akbar Cook led Senator Ruiz on a tour of the school, highlighting student achievement and innovation across various career and technical education programs.

In Cosmetology Teacher Nicole Daniels’ classroom, students were preparing for their professional certification exams. In Mark Mason’s entrepreneurship class, students delivered final business projections developed through West Side’s dual enrollment program with Rutgers University. Senator Ruiz also visited Judith Mosselle’s print shop, where students were designing and producing t-shirts for the school’s incoming ninth-graders.

Guests were treated to a breakfast prepared and served by West Side students, showcasing their culinary talents and hospitality.

“This visit was a powerful reminder of the excellence happening every day in West Side High School and all of the Newark Public Schools,” said Superintendent León. “Our teachers are cultivating future professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders—and they deserve every bit of recognition.”

Principal Cook added, “West Side High School is a place where students thrive because our teachers believe in them. We’re grateful to Senator Ruiz for celebrating that spirit with us.”

“When elected leaders like Senator Ruiz take time to honor and witness the work of our educators and students, it sends a clear message that what happens in our classrooms matters,” said Hasani K. Council, President of the Newark Board of Education. “We are proud of Mr. Houssam and the entire West Side community for embodying the excellence that defines Newark Public Schools.”

As Teacher Appreciation Week comes to a close, Newark Public Schools extends heartfelt thanks to every teacher who uplifts, inspires, and empowers our young people each and every day.