Nutley Educator's Inspiring Lessons About Diversity Earn Proclamation From Township

NUTLEY, NJ — The Nutley Board of Commissioners recently gave a thumbs up to a local educator with a knack for helping kids to learn about the value of diversity.

The commissioner board tipped their hats to Prudence Soobrattie, an educator at Nutley High School who assists with the Junior Nutley Cultural Inclusion and Diversity Council.

Mayor John Kelly III read the proclamation into the record:

“The Township of Nutley recognizes the importance of fostering a community that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and celebrates the rich cultural backgrounds of all its residents. Prudence Soobrattie has demonstrated outstanding dedication as an educator and volunteer, serving as the advisor for Building Bridges, a student organization committed to celebrating and uplifting cultures from around the world. Through her leadership, Prudence Soobrattie has created meaningful opportunities for students to share their identities, learn from one another, and develop a deeper appreciation for diversity and inclusion. She has played a vital role in organizing and executing the annual Nutley High School Night of Nations, an event that brings together students, families, and the community in a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and shared experience and her commitment, creativity, and passion have helped strengthen the fabric of the Nutley community by encouraging understanding, respect, and connection among all people. Her efforts have empowered students to become leaders, embrace their identities with pride, and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate school environment. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the Nutley Board of Commissioners, in the Township of Nutley, County of Essex, State of New Jersey, hereby thank Prudence Soobrattie for a job well done.”

Kelly presented Soobrattie with the township’s Cultural Inclusion Diversity Award after the reading of the proclamation.

“We all thank you for all of your efforts to build bridges rather than tear them down and create an inclusive community that's representative of everyone in Nutley,” Kelly said.

Soobrattie said the proclamation was an unexpected honor.

“It is a pleasure being the ESL teacher at Nutley High School,” Soobrattie said. “I see great things at Nutley High School. Not only are we diverse, but we're really integrated. The kids work together. I see non-ESL kids working with ESL kids. I just see the kids really getting along. It makes me so happy to be there.”

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