Joel Howard
Position: Second Grade Bilingual Teacher
School: Quarter Mile Lane School
School District: Bridgeton Public Schools
City, State: Bridgeton, NJ
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Music that Describes Joel
Joel Howard was nominated by his assistant principal, Reina Hernandez.
People often say, "be the change you seek to see in the world." In many cases, that's all it is - a saying. One person who is a true depiction of the change we need to see in this world is Mr. Howard. He is a change agent for students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members within Bridgeton Public Schools, particularly at Quarter Mile Lane School.
Mr. Howard has been working for Quarter Mile Lane School for over five years. He began as an ESL/Bilingual teacher and currently serves as a second grade Bilingual teacher. He is honest and kind, and he goes above and beyond what is expected of him as a school teacher in order to provide his students with "out of the box" learning opportunities. Mr. Howard allows students to become owners of their learning. He is capable of this by turning his classroom into a real world stage for students. Students are encouraged to explore and learn from their own mistakes. Students are able to create rules for acceptable behavior and learn from one another. This goes beyond core subject learning since it's applied to real-world learning concepts. Mr. Howard encourages students to share their cultural experiences and is able to infuse student life experiences into the learning process.
"As a new school leader, I integrated a school-based mentoring program for students in grades 4-8 for the 2019-2020 school year," said Hernandez. "The students selected for this program were experiencing certain behavior and academic concerns. Mr. Howard was the first staff member to volunteer to serve as a mentor. He did not demand to work with a particular student during a particular time. He simply stated, 'Let me know how I can be of assistance.'"
Mr. Howard was assigned a student who was classified as a special education fourth grade student. Mr. Howard took the time to nurture a relationship with the student. He contacted their parent and homeroom teacher to identify how he could best assist the student. He met faithfully with the student on a daily basis, and they were eager to meet and speak with Mr. Howard. At the end of the school year, a review of the student discipline record revealed that the student had not received an office referral since Mr. Howard became his mentor, which was over three months. The student's classroom teacher reported that Mr. Howard was, "a miracle worker," and that, "this student has made major progress in his academics, as well as his social interactions." Mr. Howard not only worked with the student, but with the student's teacher. He respected her schedule, as well. This is just one of the many instances where Mr. Howard has given his time to help another person shine like the star they are.
Mr. Howard is constantly assisting others with students' needs and academic concerns. Mr. Howard has collected data that is crucial in the services provided to students. He is organized and understands that students need teachers and staff members who can serve as their advocates. He has conducted several home visits on behalf of other staff members. Mr. Howard translates for parents, students, and colleagues in order to ensure students and parents understand the school expectations and students' rights. He is not afraid to speak up for students and their parents. He understand that many of the parents need a helping hand, do not understand the educational system, and are in need of someone who understands their frustration.
Mr. Howard supports all school initiatives. At times, he is the first to offer assistance. He loves to teach. He always welcomes his students with a smile and a statement of gratitude. Mr. Howard teaches students how to be respectful and polite, not just to him, but to others, as well. His students enjoy coming to class and look forward to participating in the learning process. Walking into Mr. Howard's second grade classroom is like stepping into a science lab because students are exploring and exchanging ideas. Students are excited and willing to share their learning. They are proud to be part of the school, and they share their ideas with others. Mr. Howard allows students to explore and be active members within the classroom and throughout the school. He is not afraid to try a new learning strategy, such as when he allowed his students to record themselves serving as peer tutors in the class last year.
The Quarter Mile Lane School staff respects and appreciates Mr. Howard's knowledge and ability to collaborate with others. He is a life-changing agent whose opinions and ideas are valued. As the son of a former teacher, he fully understands what it means to empower all students. He understand the need of those who struggle with learning a new culture and language, since he experienced it firsthand as a second language learner himself. His love for those who migrate to this country is evident when he speaks of the struggles many immigrant children experience in our educational system and in their native country.
"Mr. Howard is more than a LifeChanger. He is a living example of an effective teacher," said Hernandez. "He is the change we seek and have found among us. He is a motivator and a role model. We are fortunate that he is part of our Quarter Mile Lane family."
Dear friends, QML staff and students as well as community members, leaders and family, as well as respected figures,
I want to give glory to God who has brought me up out of the "pit" to be at the place where I am today. Many of you know my story - I graduated college to become a teacher, but was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2007 at the very end of my first job as a Spanish and French teacher. For years, I struggled with and battled mental illness and "ran" from the career I had worked so hard to attain.
Today, after receiving the NJ Governer's teacher of the year award for my school, I look back at what was an impossibility and praise God for his mercy and that he never settles for minimum competency (as my late grandmother used to say). He took me from a difficult place and brought me to a position where I can now inspire young and old to try, try and never give up.
To my students, I say - You can do it! (Tu si puedes!) and to my colleagues, I say the same. We will all get through this together! May we each take the time to slow down and be grateful for our families and community and consider what we can do to encourage one another. My prayer is that QML would receive the award money for LCOY but either way that we would continue to be #strongertogether. May we hear story after story in years to come of current and future students having been inspired to be life changers in their own "world" - for we all truly need each other!
Love you all!
Joel Howard
Congratulations Mr. Howard! Mr. Howard is one of the most supportive people in our school. He is always looking in the best interest of the students, his colleagues, and parents. He constantly offers to help or offer his opinion in ways that will better the group. Even when he accepted this award, he was very humble and still looking at how this can benefit the entire school community. Thanks for all you do.
A very special honor - Congratulations!
Mr Howard...... you certainly deserve this prestigious award! You are always a welcoming smile and face each day. You have a positive thought to every conversation, and always offer a friendly ear to listen.
Congratulations ??
Congratulations, Mr. Howard. This is a very well-deserved honor.
Congratulations Mr. Howard! He has been extremely supportive this year to both staff and students. He is always willing to volunteer his time and volunteer solutions to problems that people have. During this time of Covid he has been especially helpful. Thank you for everything!!
Way to go Mr. Howard! You deserve this.
Congratulations Mr. Howard! You make QML a great place to learn and work!
Lets go Mr. Howard!! You deserve this.
Congratulations, Mr. Howard!
Congratulations! You are an Awesome teacher!!!!
Congratulations Mr. Howard
Muchas felicidades profesor yo particular mente estoy muy contento al ver con que animo e entusiasmo usted da sus clases esa energía que contagia a sus alumnos y la mucha paciencia que les tiene y le doy muchas gracias por todo su trabajo para con mi hija y lo felicito por su dominación espero le vaya muy bien y le mando muchas bendiciones.
Congratulations Mr. Howard!
Congratulations Mr Howard! One of the most supportive, thoughtful, understanding, respectful and resourceful teachers I have the pleasure working with. You deserve it.
Congratulations on your nomination. It is well deserved!
Congratulations Mr. Howard! Definitely a well deserved honor. "Teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning."
Mr. Howard is the true definition of a TEAM player. He is always willing to jump in and assist with whatever is needed. He takes his "free" time and prep period often to help others translate. I know I can always go to him and ask him for assistance and he always finds time in the day to assist. He is ALL for the students. During remote learning, he suggested the idea of virtual lunch so that the students can interact and see each other while having lunch! Great asset to the QML team!
Mr. Howard is always there to offer a helping hand! He is a positive role model and truly cares for his students. We are so lucky to have you at QML!
QML is so lucky to have you. It was always a pleasure to chat with you on the playground. You truly deserve this.
Mr. Howard is the perfect recipient for the Life Changer Award. He is completely dedicated to his students and colleagues. He is willing to pitch in and assist whenever needed. He not only teaches his students but really cares about them and their families and truly changes their lives for the better. So proud to work with someone so special!
I have had the pleasure of working with Joel not only in school, but also within the community. He is immersed in the goal of helping to better the lives of children and their families. He understands the power of compassion and it is applied to his teaching in the classroom and to life.
Mr. Howard is well deserving of this honor. He is always so supportive to both colleagues and students.
Congrats for the nomination! QML is so blessed to have you!
Joel is always willing to lend a hand or give a helpful suggestion.
As a guidance counselor who has worked with Mr. Howard for the past three years, he has shown what an amazing and caring teacher he is. Mr. Howard goes above and beyond to help to support his students' academic and emotional needs. He is extremely detailed with his work, provides a safe and encouraging learning environment for his students, and is always willing to help his colleagues. We are extremely lucky to have Mr. Howard as a teacher at Quarter Mile Lane School!!!
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Howard when he taught second grade bilingual at West Avenue School. As the ESL teacher in that classroom, I witnessed his superb teaching skills and how much he genuinely cared for his students. I remember him bringing in his guitar to sing songs with the children, which was a wonderful way to incorporate music and culture into the learning environment. It was evident that he had a deep connection with his students. Congratulations on this extremely well-deserved honor, Mr. Howard!
Congratulations!! I don't know you personally but I am truly excited for you in this nomination. Be Encouraged and continue to be a blessing to so many!!!
Mr. Howard is an exemplary teacher! His positive attitude, encouraging words, and willingness to assist staff, students and parents is never-ending. Quarter Mile Lane School is blessed to have him!
Congratulations, Mr. Howard! I remember when you were at West Avenue School, you were my go to person for assisting the students in certain areas. You were always extremely helpful and kind. You are well deserving of this nomination!
Well deserved. Congratulations.
Congratulations Mr. Howard!
Joel,
Knowing you in the church growing up and seeing you now as a INCREDIBLE teacher it is an honor! When I called you last year to get some information to assist your former students you were SO helpful and SO willing to do anything you could to continue to assist those students even though they are no longer in your classroom. You are awesome, Joel! This award is very well deserved.
Mr. Howard is a skilled and talented bilingual teacher leader, who not only focuses on his students, but the entire school community! He serves on a number of committees at his school, and is loved by his students and colleagues. Our students and district are lucky to have Mr. Howard!!
I want to wish Mr. Howard my best wishes with this award. He is truly an amazing teacher who goes above & beyond to help not just his students, but parents and his colleagues also. You deserve to win!
Congratulations Mr. Howard and well deserved!
Mr. Howard is a great teacher and colleague. He is always willing to help others. Mr. Howard seeks every opportunity to support student learning. He is always saying kind words or sending inspirational messages via email, social media, or staff meetings. He is a team player and promotes enthusiasm as he gently pushes for excellence. He is a great motivator with a quiet yet powerful personality. He promotes the spirit of excellence. I am glad to know such a great teacher and an educator that motivates with a heart to encourage others.
Mr. Howard is a such great leader. He is always ready to help with a smile. I am so glad he was nominated....!!! Way to go Mr. Howard.....:)
Joel is an amazing teacher. He truly cares about ALL the students at Quarter Mile Lane. I've had the honor of working on the same grade level team with him. He always think about things through the child's perspective. He is also very helpful to staff. Joel has translated for me many times without any hesitation. A true team player! Congrats Joel!!! I couldn't think of anyone more deserving of this award.
Mr. Howard sets a great example for the students in our building. He is always interacting with them in a fun and positive way. He speaks with them in both English and Spanish and asks them about their interests. You can tell he truly cares about the students in his class and in the school community. He has been a great addition to our school and the honor is well-deserved!
Joel has been a good friend and ally especially through hard times. He has a perspective that is Jesus centered and is willing to open up and share parts of his story to help demonstrate the love that he has for people. Nothing can be more life changing than a person that helps to shines light in the darkest of places. It is a blessing to call him friend.
In this day and age, we need more life changers who are dedicated to the academic success, physical, emotional, spiritual, mental, well being of our students. It gives me great joy in seeing positive male role models that are making a difference in the lives of so many impressionable students. It is a privilege to be surrounded by greatness at our Quarter Mile Lane School. Keep on doing what you do best, supporting our students and making their existence meaningful! Thanks for going above and beyond your call of duty, lending a helping hand in whatever area is needed. Joel Howard, you continue to be the example for positive change , one person at a time!
Mr. Howard is an amazing teacher and a very helpful coworker. He is the best of the best!
Congratulations Mr. Howard on this nomination. This is a well deserved achievement. You are a very important piece within our QML family and the Bridgeton Public Schools community as a whole. Thanks for always being willing to help.
Joel is a loved and respected teacher at our QML school. He is someone that I as the school nurse can always count on to act as an interpreter between myself and our Spanish speaking parents. He goes above and beyond with his thorough follow up. I can see that he truly cares about the students and their families. His students love him and are inspired to do their best.
Joel has been a good friend and ally especially through hard times. He has a perspective that is Jesus centered and is willing to open up and share parts of his story to help demonstrate the love that he has for people. Nothing can be more life changing than a person that helps to shines light in the darkest of places. It is a blessing to call him friend.
Well deserved recognition for a caring co-worker teacher and friend.
Amazing and Super Positive.
Mr. Howard is a bright light, a smiling face, a kind word of encouragement and a positive role model at Quarter Mile Lane School. He motivates both staff and students to set the bar high and believe in success for all! Way to go Mr. Howard!! This honor for you is well-deserved!!
Mr. Howard you are an amazing teacher amd colleague. I am so happy to know you as an colleague and as a friend. God Bless you always
Thank you for your support for all of our students. Especially your additional support for our special need students! Keep up the good work.
Joel is an awesome teacher and co-worker. He consistently extends his hand and his expertise to assist his colleagues. Whether you need something as simple as something translated into Spanish or as complex as instructional strategies to reach English Language Learner, Joel is always there to assist.
Additionally, Joel is a man of faith. It drives his daily walk. It motivates him to be a leader and strong support system in our school. It is, also, that faith that leads him to truly sow into the lives of his students. He’s able to see light where some may see hopelessness. He is deserving of both the utmost respect and recognition in his craft.
I worked with Joel during my time at QML and he was a positive face every morning. He is passionate about his students, us as a staff and his ability to help all seamlessly. He is someone who I could go to as a colleague for help with translating, bouncing ideas together about teaching and a genuine person. I am very proud to have had the opportunity to work with Joel and learn from him in my profession!!
This award is so very deserving of Mr Howard for so many reasons. I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Howard for the last 4 years. He is an exemplary teacher who is committed to his students 100%. His passion and desire to see them succeed elevates those around him. As a coworker, he is someone I could go to for assistance with my Spanish speaking students. He gave me suggestions and materials so that I could ensure my students success. He’s always smiling and has a positive sentiment to pass along. He is a man of transparency, true to his beliefs and faith, and family. I am so happy he was nominated for this very deserving award.
Mr. Howard is such an amazing teacher, mentor and colleague. He always shows interest in all of the students at QML school and makes everyone who comes into contact with him feel special and recognized. Mr. Howard is dependable, kind, hard working and thorough in his interactions with students and staff. This nomination is well deserved by Mr. Howard!
Well deserved recognition for a caring leader, teacher and friend.
As a world travelling olympian I see the desperate need for educators to help kids become better equipped for the world we live in. Joel howard is effecient, compassionate, dedicated and genuine. No one better deserves this award
My friends son is in Mr.Howards’ second grade class and his mother is always telling me how Mr. Howard helps him and teaches him how to be polite and respectful. I have heard great things about Mr. Howard and how he has impacted the life of many children in the Bridgeton Public Schools. All the kids need a teacher like Mr. Howard. Good job Mr. Howard.
Felicidades Mr. Howard !!! Yes !! Si, Es VerDAD !!! I worked with him eons ago ??....he's a treasure to our students and his colleagues !!! Speaks peace into people and situations....lo mejor hay de venir Mr. Howard !!! Male educators like yourself are sooooooo needed....Thanks for serving your country by teaching and shaping the future.
Congratulations Mr. Howard!! Way to represent Bridgeton!
congratulations mr Howard !! I am very happy for you, because I am happy that you are the teacher of my daughter Leslie ... I am very grateful to you for the very kind person you are with the children !! God bless you
I. I cannot say enough about Mr. Howard and the work he’s doing at QML. He is compassionate, an advocate for his students, and has the respect of all his colleagues. He deserves all the awards and commendations that come his way, and more.
It's nice to see another male down here in the primary grades. He teaches on the other side of the city so I don't know him very well, but he has been friendly and helpful to me at workshops. I appreciate his willingness to teach "a un viejo perro, nuevos trucos" - an old dog (me) new tricks!
It is good to know that there are educators that still impact the life of students, parents and community. Mr. Howard May all you do for your students and the school you serve be returned to you doubled. Congratulations! Continue to make a difference in your school.
Mr. Howard is an amazing teacher that truly goes above an beyond to meet the needs of his students. He takes the time to build a relationship with all of his students and his influence is apparent. Last year, I had the pleasure of working alongside him for an after-school program. We had one student who was more fluent in Mam (dialect from Guatemala) than he was in Spanish and English. Mr. Howard took it upon himself to research words in Mam and incorporate them into his lessons to further assist this student. Mr. Howard is always willing to assist anyone that needs help. We are lucky to have him at QML!
Well deserved recognition for a caring leader, teacher and friend.
I’ve known Joel for a very long time, he is one of a kind in the best way. It’s not every day that people who receive accolades deserve them, Joel is one of the few who defaces any awards and accolades he gets. He is an amazing teacher, a great husband and dad and an incredible friend. He is full of wisdoms and insight and life experience. He is the epitome of what a teacher should be and a role model and example for all to follow. Thank you for being you Joel!
Joel is a very deserving man of this award. He has a heart to make a difference in the lives of people, young and old alike. He loves his own family well and has the capacity to love other too. He is very creative, is accepting of people where they are and is willing to share what he has learned to help others.
Congratulations Joel! You teach from the heart and truly care about your students. Our migrant program and students are lucky to have you as part of our family. You are amazing and deserving of an award titled "Lifechanger", because that is exactly who you are to all the students who are fortunate to have you as a teacher or tutor.
Joel Howard is a rare blend of hard work and conviction with tender hearted compassion. These qualities are what make him such an effective teacher. His patience and sense of humor are surely a salve to his students. The ability to bridge Spanish to English is a great tool to advocate for his students and their families. I believe you have chosen the right person on which to bestow this honor.
Wow, Mr. Howard, what an accomplishment! I am proud to have a colleague here at QML. Your positivity and friendly manner is an beacon of light for all to see. Thank you for being such a great role model to all. Your dedication to our school, even in the midst of the pandemic, is exemplary. The words "Life Changer" are a perfect fit for you!!!!
I could think of no one more deserving of this recognition than my friend, Joel Howard. Mr. Howard exemplifies dedication. His commitment to our school community is inspirational. I've had the privilege of working with him for over five years. During this time, I've witnessed the tremendous influence he's had on our students' academic ability, language proficiency, and overall well-being.
Congratulations Mr. Howard! You are not only an exceptional and effective teacher, but also a role model and advocate for all of the students and their parents. It is a pleasure working with you and watching the positive impact you have on your students' lives.
I am Joel’s grandfather.
I know Joel and have witnessed his triumph over personal issues with the strong support of his parents and his Doctor. Joel and Sophia his wife first child was hospitalized for months be released. Their third was diagnosed by two pediatric drs , as a pregnancy that would not be full term and would be aborted, Nakoa was born full term a healthy boy now over two years of age. They persisted and trusted God.
Joel has conquered many issues to be a teacher, and loves his students dearly.
I know from his personal triumphs is the reason he is an excellent teacher today.
I’ve heard great things about Mr.Howard. After reading his biography I can see that he is a life changer and a great example for his students and those around him. He has a clear passion for his job and his knowledge goes beyond the classroom. Mr. Howard is the perfect nominee for this award.
Mr. Howard is such a positive asset to the QML school family. His dedication to his students success, and the success of all students at our school is apparent daily. He continuously strives to ensure equitable decisions are made for all learners. Mr. Howard's professionalism shines each day with his interactions with colleagues. Mr. Howard has been a true blessing to QML, and we are so lucky to have him as a part of the team.
Mr. Howard welcomes everyone with a smile and is always willing to help with translations. He is passionate about helping all of his students.
When you get Mr Howard you get someone who lives from his heart! I can’t think of anyone who would care more for kids and parents and teachers. What a gift you are!! You ARE a world changer!!
I am very proud of Mr. Howard. Although I am new to QML School, Mr. Howard made such a positive impression on me because of his love for teaching, willingness to help his colleagues and advocacy for students. I believe great things are ahead for Mr. Howard, because he is deserving of it.
Joel is a phenomenal friend, father, and husband. I've known him for years and have seen how he has grown and matured over the course of our relationship. I am a better person because of Joel and I know many others feel the same way. His gifts of wisdom and patience have helped me to grow so much more than I would have on my own. Any student is truly blessed to have him as their teacher.
I am so proud of my husband for his hard work and passion as a teacher. He is a wonderful team player who is passionate about building up the next generation. He is a writer, musician and wonderful teacher who uses his multifaceted skills in and outside school. He engages our neighbors and community with care and creativity.
Congratulations and well deserved!!
