Congratulations to Ms. Hoagland for being voted “Teacher of the Year” for 2025. Ms. Hoagland is a part of the math department at Township, but she is also responsible for teaching AP Computer Science and some courses of our IB program. To celebrate this award, the Patriot Press would like to hear more about it from our very own teacher of the year. Here is what Ms. Hoagland has to say:
How do you feel about this award?
“I was completely surprised and honored to receive this award. I have always strived to be the best teacher I could be for all of my students.”
What does FTHS mean to you?
“I have been teaching at FTHS since March 2000. I have spent more time at FTHS than anywhere else in my life. The administration, faculty, and students are like family to me.”
What is your favorite part about teaching?
“My favorite part of teaching is that I can share my love of math with my students. I love being able to observe students grasp a topic that they have had difficulty with in the past. Being able to break down difficult topics into more easily digestible parts and being able to explain why and when math will be used in everyday life is also a passion on mine.”
What is one piece of advice you have for your students and or anyone pursuing a career in education?
“Being a great teacher starts with being organized and passionate about what you are teaching. Teaching is also a lot about flexibility; lots of things can happen during the day that teachers must be able to adapt and adjust to with little or no warning. Being a teacher is also more than just “teaching” – making connections with students and letting them know that you are on their side, here to help, and that it is ok to make mistakes are some of the most important parts of the career.”
Likewise, congratulations to Ms. Levine for being voted Educational Services Professional of the year! Ms. Levine is one of the school counselors at Freehold Township. The Patriot Press also wanted to hear about what our very own “Educational Service Professional” has to say. Thank you to Ms. Levine for being kind enough to answer any questions! Here is what Ms. Levine has to say:
How do you feel about receiving this award?
“I am truly grateful to receive the Educational Services Professional of the Year award. It is an honor to be recognized, and I deeply appreciate this acknowledgment of my work.”
What is your favorite part about your job?
“My favorite part of the job is connecting with students. I know I can’t help everyone every time they come down, but when I know that I’ve made an impact, it truly means the world to me. I also love watching students grow throughout their high school careers and am always so proud to see how far they have come by the time they graduate. When students share that I made a difference, that is what matters most to me.”
What does FTHS mean to you?
“This is my 16th year at FTHS. I began my career as a guidance counselor and feel that I have learned so much from my peers along the way. I am especially grateful for my guidance family, who are always there to support one another.”
What is one piece of advice you have for high school students or anyone interested in pursuing a career in education?
“My advice for students who are interested in a future career in education is to make sure they are entering the field for the right reasons. This work requires patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support others. While our job isn’t always glamorous and can be challenging at times, the impact we have can be incredibly meaningful. Even small moments of connection or support can mean the world to a student, and those moments are what make the work truly rewarding.”
All of FTHS gives a big thank you to all our teachers for their hard work and dedication to creating such a positive learning environment for all students at this school. It wouldn’t be the same without the incredible teachers Freehold Township High School is so lucky to have, especially Ms. Hoagland and Ms. Levine. Big congratulations!
