Manchester Teacher Honored For Going 'Above And BEEyond' For Her Students

MANCHESTER, NJ — A Manchester Township Schools teacher has been honored by Applebee's as a local Above and "BEE"yond Teacher.

Melissa Nazario, a fourth-grade teacher at Manchester Township Elementary School, was chosen as the honoree from the Applebee's in Manchester Township, according to Doherty Enterprises, which owns the Manchester restaurant and more than 160 other restaurants including Applebee's in the tri-state area.

Nazario is one of eight New Jersey teachers honored this year, the company said. She will receive a $500 sponsorship check to support her classroom for the 2026–2027 school year.

Nazario was nominated by her student, Aliyah Maghrabi, Manchester Township School District officials said. Aliyah and her classmates will be treated to an end-of-year party at Applebee's in honor of the win.

This is the 10th year Doherty has sponsored the Above and "BEE"yond Teacher Essay Contest, where students are invited to submit essays describing how a teacher has positively influenced their educational experience and go above and beyond each day.

"Every year, these student submissions highlight the incredible dedication and influence teachers have in shaping young lives," said Michael McKee, director of operations for Doherty Enterprises. "We’re proud to recognize this year’s winners and support the important work they do in their classrooms and communities."