An educator at Anthony Rossi School in the Vineland school district was recently picked to represent Cumberland County in the Governor’s Educator of the Year program. He earned the honor by being our county’s Teacher of the Year. He is one of 21 teachers across the state in the running for the coveted Governor’s award, a statewide honor.
The educators represent each of New Jersey’s 21 counties and teach subjects and grade levels ranging from second grade and special education to computer science, criminal justice, dance, and environmental science
Martine earned his 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, DC. He later earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, where his dissertation focused on informal teacher leadership.
He taught special education for three years before joining Vineland Public Schools’ inaugural Take FLIGHT gifted and talented program at Rossi School. His early experience developed a strong commitment to differentiation, student advocacy, and equitable opportunities for learners. He has helped students from four different elementary schools enter his classroom as strangers and leave as a united community of compassionate scholars.
At Rossi, he directs the drama club and has successfully led five school productions. Martine 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.
Martine is defined by his commitment to establishing and nurturing collaborative school cultures, empowering teacher leadership, and advancing equitable opportunities for all students. His 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.
“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 New Jersey Department of Education announced the honorees during an awards ceremony at The College of New Jersey in Ewing. Individual schools select their Teachers of the Year, who can then apply for the county honor through the Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.
The 21 county winners will serve as ambassadors for New Jersey’s public schools and network with other educators across the state during the school year.
