This month's Alumni Spotlight features Jermaine Hunte, a teacher at the Newark School of Data Science and Information Technology, a magnet high school in Newark, New Jersey. He is a graduate of NJCTL's DOE-approved Alternate Route Program through which he earned a Master of Science in Teaching and Learning in Chemistry.

Originally from Guyana, Jermaine began teaching high school science in 2006, with experience in high school integrated science, agricultural science, chemistry, and social studies. Alongside teaching, he also earned a bachelor's degree in Forestry from the University of Guyana, a background that continues to shape his interests and classroom perspective.

After immigrating to the United States in 2019, Jermaine was eager to return to the classroom but found the certification process difficult to navigate. "The information wasn't easily available and it seemed complicated," he recalls, a challenge made even harder by the pandemic. Once joining the Teach Newark Initiative as a chemistry substitute, school leaders helped him understand certification requirements and guided him towards NJCTL. Because his background was not primarily in chemistry, he needed a program that would both strengthen his content knowledge and support his teaching practice--leading him to NJCTL.

Jermaine completed the program in just one year and describes the program as challenging, but achievable. "It's progressive and builds logically," he explains. "You're not expected to know everything at once so you are not overwhelmed and this helps you believe you can succeed." He is especially appreciative of NJCTL instructors for their academic support and encouragement throughout his journey.

In the classroom, Jermaine frequently applies NJCTL strategies, particularly around formative assessment and instructional technology. "Socrative has been such a help in formative assessment and getting timely feedback," he explains. He also credits NJCTL with expanding his use of simulations and other media, which has been especially valuable as he transitioned from the more traditional methods he used in Guyana.

NJCTL's focus on student-centered learning and inclusive practices has also been especially helpful in his linguistically and culturally diverse school community. "You have to be very intentional," he says, noting how structured group work and regulated speaking time help all students feel more included.

Outside the classroom, Jermaine enjoys gardening, working with young people through community and church programs, and exploring new places. His love of plants reflects his forestry background, while his commitment to mentorship extends beyond the school day.

"I really enjoyed my experience with NJCTL," he says--before asking whether NJCTL has official school colors and floating the idea that some NJCTL merch might be in order!

We are proud to spotlight Jermaine as an NJCTL alum and celebrate the global experience, passion and commitment he brings to his New Jersey classroom.