Angel Santiago is a fifth-grade teacher from Gloucester Township, New Jersey and has been recognized as New Jersey's State Teacher of the Year for 2020-2021. From participating and facilitating in school events such as “Hispanic Heritage Night,” and “Donuts with Dudes,” Angel makes it a point to be inclusive with his families. He has participated in committees, piloted new curriculums, and administered professional development knowing the importance of investing in his school and the growth of the staff and school community.

Perhaps the project he is most proud of is the afterschool club he created, Young People of Character (YPOC), which brings together students who reflect all different racial and socioeconomic backgrounds to collaborate on different community service projects. YPOC is a club dedicated to raising leaders who are strong, empathetic, and who reflect the communities they will one day lead. Angel graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa and Kappa Delta Pi honor societies and he holds a master’s degree in education and a bachelor’s degree in humanities. {/sliders}