Do You Know A Teacher Who Rocks?

Click here to see the Teachers Who Rock Class of 2026

Join 100.1 WJRZ in celebrating educators' valuable role in our children’s lives.

Help us celebrate the incredible work of Monmouth & Ocean County educators by nominating a "Teacher Who Rocks!"

Every year, we receive so many stories about teachers who go above & beyond for children that it's difficult to choose a select few! But we LOVE reading every single one of your nominations to select the Class of 2026 for 100.1 WJRZ's "Teachers Who Rock."

The Guiding Light Award: Recognizing Those Who Light the Way Beyond the Classroom

Award Description: The Guiding Light Award celebrates New Jersey’s certificated school professionals whose work shines beyond the classroom. These individuals play essential roles in supporting students’ academic, social, emotional, and developmental growth. Although they are not classroom teachers, their expertise, compassion, and leadership help create the conditions where students and educators can thrive.

This award recognizes those who guide, uplift, and inspire, often behind the scenes, serving as steady beacons of support throughout the school community.

Eligible Categories (Non-teaching NJ Certificated Staff)

The following certificated roles are eligible for nomination:

· School Counselors

· School Nurses

· School Social Workers

· School Psychologists

· Speech-Language Specialists / Speech-Language Pathologists

· Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultants (LDTCs)

· School Library Media Specialists

· Instructional Coaches / Academic Specialists (non-teaching certificated roles)

· Student Assistance Coordinators (SACs)

· Behavioral Specialists (certificated)

· Occupational Therapists

· Physical Therapists

· Other certificated educational services personnel not assigned as classroom teachers

Let us know about a teacher or ESP in your life who rocks! Then starting January 16, listen with Matt Knight every Friday at 3:20pm as he inducts this year's class of "Teachers Who Rock" from 100.1 WJRZ.

What is the Teachers Who Rock Awards program?
The Teachers Who Rock program will recognize up to 25 outstanding teachers to receive this prestigious award for their important contribution to society. These teachers become lifetime members of the Teachers Who Rock Class. In addition to recognizing outstanding teachers, we also recognize one Educational Support Professional in our community. Educational Support Professionals (ESP) take care of our children every day and make sure they have the tools and resources to succeed in our schools and classrooms. ESPs include paraprofessionals, secretaries, bus drivers, food service workers, custodial/maintenance workers & security personnel.

Who is eligible?
Nominated teachers must be full-time classroom teachers at a public or non-public school in the Jersey Shore area. For the 2025-2026 school year, teachers must spend most of their assignment time teaching students in grades Pre-K – 8, and 9-12. Previous winners are not eligible.

How can a teacher be considered for a Teachers Who Rock award?
To be considered for a Teachers Who Rock Award, a teacher must first be nominated by a superintendent, principal, co-worker, or parent. A teacher may not nominate himself or herself. The nominating committee will not accept nominations from students. Nominations may be submitted on the WJRZ website or via mail. The nomination period will be from December 22nd - March 31st. The contest is open to all station listeners who are 18 years of age or older.

What do the 2026 WINNERS receive?
Winners will be announced on air every Friday beginning January 16th. Listen with Matt Knight every Friday at 3:20pm as he inducts this year's class of "Teachers Who Rock" from 100.1 WJRZ. Up to two winning Nominees will be selected via a judging process from all eligible essay entries received up to the time of selection. Up to twenty-five prizes will be awarded. Each prize consists of a crystal apple award and an invitation to the Teachers Who Rock Class of 2026 Banquet Dinner.

Sponsored by NJ School Jobs & NJEA