Bernice Schneiderman Edelcreek

Mar 2, 2023

in 1910-1929 (Born), Athletics, Born or raised in Newark (high school or before), Education, Museums and Libraries, Jewish Women

1927-2015

Bernice Edelcreek was a lifelong Newark teacher who said “Newark was the only place I ever really wanted to teach.”

Bernice was a physical education teacher and was named Newark’s Teacher of the Year in 1994. She said, “I am particular concerned…with youngsters who are having difficulty accomplishing the skills which are required in the field of physical education. Helping my students help themselves in my greatest accomplishment…If they benefit I benefit, you give to the system but you get a lot back.” The principal said, “she often goes beyond the call of duty.”

Bernice taught at Hawkins Street School in the 1980s and 1990s. Previously she taught as West Side High School and Science High School.

In the 1950s she was president of the Newark Substitute Teachers’ Association and wrote to the Newark News about the importance of state aid for schools. She also advocated for equal pay for substitutes as other teachers. In 1958, she went on a study tour of Hawaii with AFL-CIO to attend University of Hawaii.

West Side Yearbook 1961

Bernice was born and raised in Newark, a graduate of Chancellor Avenue School and Weequahic High. Her high school yearbook said, “in every sport she does excel.” She earned an honors recognition pin in sports from Weequahic. She graduated Pennsylvania State Teachers College and got her masters at NYU. She married Gilbert Edelcreek in 1959.