2017 State Teacher of the Year – New Jersey’s 2016-17 Teacher of the Year is Argine Safari! Born in Armenia, the music teacher from Pascack Valley High School not only has passion for the arts, but also for respect of diversity and all cultures. While her school is 88 percent white, she makes sure that the small population of other cultures is accepted and made to feel included and comfortable. She is an award-winning music educator, advocate, vocal coach, clinician and conductor. She is active as a pianist and vocalist, having performed at Carnegie Hall, MSG and Zankel Hall.