Jessica Barton named Bloomfield Teacher of the Year for 2025-26

The Bloomfield School District is proud to share that Ms. Jessica Barton, an exceptional sixth-grade teacher at Demarest Elementary School, has been named the Bloomfield Teacher of the Year for 2025-26!

Ms. Barton was born and raised in Bloomfield and is an alumnus of Demarest Elementary as well as Bloomfield Middle and High Schools.  She holds advanced degrees from Fordham University and Montclair State in elementary education, special education, and middle school mathematics.   Ms. Barton has spent the last 22 years serving her home community with dedication and love.  She has served in her current position, teaching sixth-grade mathematics and science, for the last seven years.

Ms. Barton’s coworkers hold her in high regard and appreciate her leadership qualities in numerous initiatives like the Tech Committee, Halloween Chair, Forensics, the Gifted and Talented Program, and after-school tutoring programs.  She is an inspiration to her students for her ambitious after-school undertakings, which include running marathons and being exceptionally well-rounded in many other areas.

The Demarest Community is continuously impressed by her knack for connecting with students on a professional and personal level. Her talent for making learning enjoyable each day is something every educator should aim for. Students are excited to be in her class because of her integration of humor, engaging lessons, and creative teaching methods. She inspires students to be a part of the class at all times and has a way of making them feel comfortable and welcome. They are always able to be themselves in Ms. Barton’s class.

Ms. Barton is an inspiring educator who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to meeting the diverse needs of every student she encounters: from English language learners to students with disabilities, and those across all grade levels. Whether she is nurturing the curiosity of kindergarteners or guiding the growth of sixth graders preparing for middle school, Ms. Barton approaches each child with patience, compassion, and respect.

The Bloomfield School District is truly grateful that Ms. Barton is a part of our Community as an alumnus, colleague, mentor, friend, and Bloomfield School District Teacher of the Year!

Congratulations to Ms. Barton and all of the 2026 Teachers and Educational Service Professionals!

Reservations for the 2026 BEF Awards Gala are available online here.