It's Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to celebrate educators throughout the state.

"Every teacher puts in hours, we put our hearts into the work we do, and having recognition like this is just mind-blowing because you just feel really seen," said teacher Stefanie Lachenauer.

Lachenauer is the 2024-2025 New Jersey State Teacher of The Year. She works at Montgomery Upper Middle School. Since an early age she knew education was her calling.

"I was one of those little kids who just always knew I was going to be a teacher," said Lachenauer.

She wanted to teach middle school to help and support kids during a big time of change. One of her courses is called "Skills for Success".

"That class is kind of like life coaching for middle school, we learn about personality types, strengths, how we study and learn," said Lachenauer.

In her current role, she's spent months meeting hundreds of educators.

"I'm constantly being inspired, and even though I've been teaching for 18 years, there's always some new way to learn, and new ways to grow as an educator," said Lachenauer.

To future teachers she says get started by looking at the state's resources and speak to a teacher you know.

"If you look up 'Teach Inspire NJ' or #TEACHINSPIRENJ, we have a whole ton of resources on there right now for teachers who are getting started," said Lachenauer.

The New Jersey Department of Education launched “Teach.Inspire.New Jersey" to address the teacher shortage and improve teacher retention.

The department wants to reenergize current teachers, spark interest in those considering a career in education, and highlight the positive influence teachers have on students.

"New Jersey has so many great resources with NJEA, NJDOE, there's tons of professional development being offered. We also have really great grant opportunities," said Lachenauer.

For more information for current and aspiring teachers in New Jersey, visit teachinspire.nj.gov.