Howell Teacher Gets National Recognition

For 30 years Stanley Koba has been teaching students in the Freehold Regional . After 30 years at Freehold Borough he came to Howell High School where he now teaches and is in charge of the Scholar Center for Humanities. 

Koba was recently recognized by Barnes & Noble as their National "Teacher of the Year" as part of their "My Favorite Teacher Contest." He was chosen based on an essay written by former student Abigail Thompson from a pool of 14 thousand entries.

The teacher called the submission by Thompson "an absolutely wonderful essay." In the essay the current junior described what makes Koba so special. "His upbeatoutlook and innate excitement are contagious. He exudes a passion for music and history, appreciation for his students, and adoration for his job. Not only do we respect him, but he respects us us as young adults."

He said the recognition is appreciated but not the reason he has been in education all these years. "I'm extremely flattered by this," he said. "There are plenty of other teachers that deserve this award as much as I do."

Working with students like Thompson is why he has been in the profession for as long as he has and why he said he has no intention to retire. "I'm glad I had the privilege of being a teacher and working with students like Abigail and all the others that I come in contact with at Howell High School," he said. 

Sara DiFrancesco, the retailer's Director of Business Development credited Thompson's essay for giving Koba the edge. "This award celebrates teachers' dedication to their students and their ability to inspire," she said. "We're pleased to present this award to Stanley Koba who truly embodies these qualities as beautifully described in the essay we received from Abigail Thompson."

As part of the prize Koba received $5000 and will be honored at the local Barnes & Noble among other rewards. Howell High School will also receive $5000.