2025-2026 Recipient

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Sarah Smietana
Mathematics Teacher

Sarah Smietana is an experienced and enthusiastic mathematics educator of 19 years at Lyndhurst High School. She has a deep passion for hands-on, inquiry-based learning, which drives her to create dynamic and engaging lessons in a welcoming, inclusive environment for her students.

During her tenure, Ms. Smietana has co-advised the Lyndhurst Chapter of the National Honor Society since 2009. Her chapter designs and executes an extensive tutoring program for the school district. Additionally, her chapter supports various clubs and community organizations with volunteers and donations.

Her teaching philosophy centers on fostering student curiosity and building a foundation in mathematics literacy, empowering students to become confident, lifelong problem-solvers.

She holds a B.A. in Applied Mathematics with a Secondary K-12 Mathematics Specialization from William Paterson University and a post-graduate certificate for Motivation and Classroom Management from the University of La Verne. Ms. Smietana is committed to the continued development of a rich learning environment that encourages actively constructed knowledge and collaborative exploration to nurture her students’ appreciation for mathematics.