1906-1988

An early Black teacher, hired in 1945 (see Timeline, bottom of page here).

Born and raised in Montclair and taught for a total of 48 years, mostly in Newark. Had a masters and doctorate of education from Rutgers.

Received the Essex County Distinguished Service Award for Education in 1977.

Delegate to the National Education Association, member of the Newark Curriculum Committee for Language Arts, legislative chairperson for Essex County and NJ State Education Association, member of AARP NJ State Committee, member of the Exec Committee of the Alumni of Montclair State College, secretary of the Retired Teachers Association and President of the Townswomen.

Montclair Times Obituary
Montclair State College Yearbook 1928

Bibliography

“Mary Elizabeth Spruel” Montclair Times Feb 25, 1988

“Mary Womble Spruel Re-elected Warden” Montclair Times Mar 19, 1981

“Mary W Spruel Selected as AARP Delegate” Montclair Times Jun 12, 1986

“Essex Teachers Planning Dinner” Star Ledger Apr 3, 1972

“Devotion Remembered” Star Ledger Mar 31, 1977

“Ex-Educators Name Luddy” Star Ledger May 6, 1977

Montclair State College Yearbook 1928