1927-2015
Born and raised in Newark, Bernice Edelcreek said “Newark was the only place I ever really wanted to teach.”
A physical education teacher, she 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.”
She taught at Hawkins Street School in the 1980s and 1990s. Previously she taught as West Side High School and Science High School.
She was 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.
Bibliography
“Devoted teacher wins education’s top award” Star Ledger July 4, 1994
Yearbooks: npl.org/yearbooks West Side 1961 and Science 1978