Belmar Educators Honored at Latino American Association Banquet for Commitment to Student Success
Superintendent Jimmy Alvarez and Belmar Elementary Team Lauded for Academic Achievements and Community Impact
Belmar / Lake Como TapInto By Matt Doherty – Published November 14, 2024 at 8:22 PM
Belmar Educators Recognized by Latino American Association for Dedication to Student AchievementPhoto Credit: Latino American Association of Monmouth County
By Matt Doherty
Published November 14, 2024 at 8:22 PM
BELMAR, NJ – In a ceremony at the 30th Annual Awards Banquet, the Latino American Association of Monmouth County recognized Superintendent Jimmy Alvarez and the Belmar Elementary School (BES) administrative team — Mike Bardsley, Sarah Wilton, and Lauren Vasile — for their remarkable contributions to the Belmar community’s educational success. Board of Education members Jen Nicolay and Michele Lomas attended the event on behalf of the Belmar Elementary School Board, underscoring the school’s dedication to enhancing learning and fostering community bonds.
This award celebrates the BES team’s dedication to academic excellence and equity in education, emphasizing the critical role they’ve played in uplifting student performance and bridging connections with families. Their collective efforts, led by Alvarez, have seen Belmar Elementary School achieve unprecedented gains in academic standards. Under their guidance, the school recorded an 11.7% increase in passing rates for English Language Arts, surpassing the New Jersey state average by over 8% for the first time. Mathematics proficiency also rose, with an 8.9% increase that placed Belmar Elementary over 7.5% above the state average. In Science, a 9.4% improvement on the 2024 New Jersey Student Learning Assessments highlighted the school’s commitment to comprehensive educational success.
Alvarez, a New Jersey native of Cuban heritage, has dedicated over 20 years to public education, inspired by his uncle Fredy, who encouraged him to pursue his calling in education. Now working towards a doctorate at Penn State University, Alvarez remains driven by his belief in each student’s ability to learn at high levels and the courage required from educators to challenge traditional norms for their students’ success.
“This honor is an acknowledgment of our entire team’s dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment,” Alvarez said in his acceptance speech. “I consider myself part Cuban and part New Jersey… Both cultures are vibrant and essential to my identity.” He attributed Belmar’s success to the collaborative efforts of the entire school community, including the school board, administrators, teachers, custodians, support staff, and families.
Beyond academic achievements, Belmar Elementary has made strides in building a stronger community presence and inclusive school environment. The addition of bilingual staff has supported the school’s diverse student population, while modernized facilities and proactive responses to social media challenges have fostered a more secure and supportive atmosphere. The school’s dedication to inclusivity has earned it accolades, including being a finalist for the Asbury Park Press “Best of the Best” Public School award in both 2022 and 2023.
Reflecting on the importance of his work, Alvarez said, “I care deeply about this work. It is not just a job, but my life’s purpose, shaped by the love, support, and lessons from everyone around me.” He extended his gratitude to his family, including his wife and young children, along with the BES team and community members who have contributed to the school’s accomplishments. “Belmar’s success is not the achievement of one, but of many. It takes a committed Board of Education, our dedicated administrators, passionate teachers, hardworking custodians, cooks, office staff, and, of course, our amazing families to create the community we are so proud of today,” Alvarez expressed.
Alvarez’s appreciation for his support system was evident as he acknowledged those who have guided him throughout his journey. “There is a saying: ‘You are who you surround yourself with,’ and I believe this wholeheartedly. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by my beautiful and very patient wife, my parents, in-laws, family, my best friends, excellent mentors, and colleagues. Basically everyone at tables #4 and #5,” he said with a smile. “These relationships have been the bedrock of my journey, guiding me through every challenge and triumph.”
The Latino American Association’s award reflects the powerful impact that Alvarez and his team have had on the lives of Belmar’s young people and the broader community. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to equity, they’ve set a high standard for education in Monmouth County. Their achievements continue to inspire Belmar students, offering them a foundation for success and aspirations beyond the classroom.
“I am truly grateful for this recognition and to be part of such an incredible community in Belmar,” Alvarez concluded. The honor, he emphasized, celebrates a shared vision for an inclusive and thriving educational environment that benefits both students and families, paving the way for future generations in Belmar.