NEWARK, N.J. – Mario Banks, a Detroit native who chose the Brick City as the place where he would make a difference as an educator, has been honored as Newark Public Schools’ 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year, the district’s highest recognition for instructional excellence.

Banks, who first came to Newark in 2011, is the band director at Science Park High School, where he leads the legendary Legion of Boom marching band and other celebrated music programs.

Superintendent León made the announcement on Thursday at the annual breakfast held for all of the 64 teachers who were named Teacher of the Year by their schools. In what has become a district tradition, Superintendent León paid a surprise visit to the District Teacher of the Year the day before the annual breakfast. Banks’ family and the district and school’s administration were also a part of the occasion.

The recognition humbled Banks.

“From the absolute bottom of my heart, I really, really appreciate this honor,” said Banks. “This is more than I could ever imagine. I’m thankful.”

Banks’ leadership and passion have elevated Science Park High School’s music program to new heights.

In April, he led the Legion of Boom Marching Band to victory in the Newark Public Schools Battle of the Bands for a second year in a row. That same month, he conducted the band during a special performance for His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh. Banks also directs the Science Park High School Concert Band, Modern Band, and Jazz Ensemble, which recently performed at the prestigious Jazz House Kids Spring Showcase.

Banks is also the founder of the New Jersey Mass Band, in which he collaborates with directors across the city and country to showcase the high-step/traditional marching band style.

“This district has so much talent, and we’re just at the beginning of just opening up all that talent and seeing what the district has to offer – not just in Newark and New Jersey but around the country,” Banks said. “It’s important that everybody knows what Newark is doing.”

Principal Darleen Gearhart warmly thanked Banks for his exemplary work.

“You are the heart and soul of Science Park,” said Gearhart. “It shows in everything you do.”

Board of Education President Hasani K. Council recognized Banks as a fellow brother of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

“I wouldn’t expect anything less,” Council said to Banks. “We are proud of the work that you are doing here at Science Park High School. You are changing the lives of our students.”

At this morning’s breakfast, Banks – at Superintendent León’s request – announced that he and all the teachers named their school’s Teacher of the Year would receive $1,000 for classroom supplies.