District honors Teacher of the Year Kim Briles and Educational Services Professional Harrison Cade

The Greater Egg Harbor Regional High School District honored two staff members at its board meeting: Kim Briles was named Teacher of the Year and Harrison Cade received the Educational Services Professional of the Year award.

Jim Ernie, the district supervisor of social studies, introduced Briles and highlighted her tenure with the district, extensive professional development and classroom leadership. "She lights a fire on her kids and gets them excited about what makes ... our role as citizens so important," Ernie said, noting Briles’ AP government instruction, a teacher-led book club and outreach that took students to Monticello.

Briles, who started in the district in 2004, described her acceptance as deeply personal and credited colleagues and students for support. "Yes means trust. Yes means possibility," she told the board, explaining how the school community helped her rebuild after family loss and how that culture informs her teaching.

Sarah Zar, Cedar Creek guidance supervisor, presented Harrison Cade as Educational Services Professional of the Year for his mentorship work with at-risk male students and cross-team collaboration. "He’s taken that commitment even further by creating and leading a group for at-risk male students, providing mentorship, guidance and a space for connection and growth," Zar said. Cade credited mentors and said he sees his role as paying that support forward.

Board members applauded both honorees and thanked staff for work that, they said, extends beyond the classroom.