The New Jersey Department of Education recognizes the outstanding contributions of teachers and leaders through various national and state programs each year.  These honored educators serve as spokespersons and ambassadors for the profession who are encouraged to help shape New Jersey educational policies and practices that influence their schools and classrooms.

The New Jersey Department of Education takes great pride in celebrating schools that bring out the very best in our students. The department is adamant about identifying and recognizing these schools on an annual basis. The department honors our NJ Promising Practices Outliers and Distinguishing Schools. Further the department participates in the federally funded National Blue Ribbon Schools Program which celebrates school excellence, turnaround stories, and closing student achievement gaps.

The Lighthouse District Initiative recognizes districts in New Jersey for illuminating the path toward academic improvement and student success. Through the Lighthouse District Initiative, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) is highlighting districts that have, over the past several years, demonstrated academic improvement in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics with diverse student groups. This award recognizes the hard work of the whole school district community including district and school leaders, teachers, students, parents and other community members.