By Stephanie L. Natera-Smith, MSW, LCSW
In partnership with Rutgers University, NJEA’s annual Recess Day opened with a street-festival vibe: a DJ played outside, stilt walkers towered above the crowd, mimes cruised along the walkways and several other activities set an upbeat tone.
The statewide event drew more than 6,500 people, the largest audience in Recess Day history, as students, families and educators gathered at Rutgers University’s Jersey Mike’s Arena. From the first song to the final cheer, the energy never changed. Sneakers squeaked on the hardwood, whistles cut through the music, a spirited game of Simon Says drew roars and a steady chorus of laughter.
Spotlighting partnership and community
Recess Day is designed to spotlight community partnerships and invite educators and students to experience a day of fun and connection while recognizing the 2025–26 State and County Teachers of the Year. The collaboration with Rutgers University connected K–12 students from districts throughout the state with a major higher education institution and showed how coordination among schools, universities and community groups can create opportunities that last beyond a single school day.
Travel to the arena reflected the statewide reach. Buses arrived from districts throughout New Jersey, from communities large and small. The flow of arrivals kept the arena buzzing as schools checked in, found their sections and joined the pregame festivities.
From the opening tip-off, students, educators and families stayed engaged with performances from the band, cheerleaders and the women’s basketball team. Between timeouts and media breaks, student sections led call-and-response chants and dancing and singing students were shown on the jumbotron.
Participation even extended to the floor. Dozens of educators took part in a friendly basketball shootout of “musical basketball,” trading layups in front of students who cheered on every shot. The contest added a light competitive moment that highlighted the day’s theme of connection through play. Student mascots from visiting schools also joined Sir Henry, Rutgers’ mascot, on the sideline, waving to the crowd, dancing in a conga line, posing for photos and high-fiving young fans. Their enthusiasm stood out, and their willingness to step into the spotlight at such a young age was admirable.
Honoring excellence in education
The celebration honored excellence in the profession, as well. The 2025-26 County Teachers of the Year and Gillian Ober, NJ State Teacher of the Year, were recognized at the end of the first quarter. The acknowledgments linked the joy in the stands to the daily work in New Jersey public schools and highlighted some of the educators who make that work possible.
Giveaways throughout the day sent school-spirit items home with students and staff, reinforcing pride and community. Students left with keepsakes that will remind them of a day centered on movement, belonging and school spirit.
The program concluded with a Rutgers women’s basketball win! For many students, it was their first opportunity to experience a live college game and to root for the home team.
Recess Day highlighted that joyful school cultures and New Jersey’s public schools go hand in hand. After a record-setting turnout and a home-team victory, NJEA and Rutgers University cannot wait to see so many more faces next year.
See more of Rutgers Recess Day at njea.org/rutgersrecess.
Stephanie L. Natera-Smith is an associate director in the Communications Division. She can be reached at snatera@njea.org.