One-time Army sergeant now teaching in Stafford gets statewide honor from VFW

Amanda Oglesby, Asbury Park Press
·2 min read

STAFFORD - Army veteran and Stafford Intermediate School basic skills reading teacher Mary Ruiz was named the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars' Middle School Teacher of 2024.

Each year, the New Jersey VFW recognizes three teachers statewide for patriotism and service to their communities.

Ruiz was nominated by VFW Post 12173 of Little Egg Harbor for her support of the military in and out of the classroom. In school, Ruiz has held Patriot Day activities about 9/11 as well as lessons for Flag Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day, according to a spokesperson for the VFW. She has invited veterans to speak to students and organized school-based food drives for homeless veterans, according to the organization.

Outside of the classroom, she is a member of VFW Post 6063 in Toms River and helps veterans transition to civilian life, according to the VFW.

Mary Ruiz, a Stafford Intermediate School teacher, was named New Jersey Veterans of Foreign War's Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2024.
Mary Ruiz, a Stafford Intermediate School teacher, was named New Jersey Veterans of Foreign War's Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2024.

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Ruiz served 10 years in the Army, completed two tours of duty and moved up the ranks from supply sergeant to staff sergeant during her service, according to the VFW. She now serves as director of training and events for H-Hour in Manahawkin, a support program for veterans.

Part of her work includes organizing retreats and events focused on building social connections and physical fitness among new veterans, according to the VFW.

Mary Ruiz, a teacher at Stafford Intermediate School, is being honored as one of three teachers of the year by the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Mary Ruiz, a teacher at Stafford Intermediate School, is being honored as one of three teachers of the year by the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars.

"I am truly humbled and grateful for this recognition," Ruiz said in a news release. "It is gratifying to know that my dedication to connecting our youth with military members and veterans is seen as important and noteworthy. More gratifying are the rewards I receive in witnessing connections and friendships being formed through these efforts."

Ruiz has her master's degree from Stockton University and holds certificates in teaching special education and reading, according to the VFW. In 2023, administrators in the Stafford Township School District named her the district's teacher of the year, according to the agency.

Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 15 years. Reach her at @OglesbyAPP, aoglesby@gannettnj.com or 732-557-5701.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Stafford Intermediate teacher named by VFW as NJ teacher of the year