What does it take to earn the title of “Teacher of the Year”? For Mr. Nyfenger, it’s his devotion and passion for teaching, his ability to bring psychology to life, and most importantly, his genuine care and love for his students. Walking into his classroom, one is greeted by an atmosphere filled with intellectual curiosity, positivity, and plenty of students eager to learn.
Nyfenger’s teaching style has been shown to stick with many students. His ability to engage students with his lessons and use interactive approaches to teaching has left a mark on them. He emphasizes making the versatile psychology topics he teaches relatable for his students as a way to capture their attention and truly engage them with the material. His influential teaching methods are one of the many qualities that contributed to him winning the Teacher of the Year award.
“Mr. Nyfenger teaches in a way that is engaging and entertaining,” Eliana Bieber (’26) shared. “He accommodates the needs of his students by providing different explanations when they are confused and constantly offers extra help and review sessions.”
Nyfenger is also known for creating an easygoing and serene environment that greatly benefits his students’ learning experience. “I feel no stress walking into Mr. Nyfenger’s class,” Valeria Perales (’26) said. “He has created an environment where I can both relax and learn.”
According to Nyfenger, his passion for teaching and his ability to connect and form genuine relationships with his students contributes significantly to his supportive classroom atmosphere. “I think I chose the right profession,” he said. “I teach a subject that I love to students who, year after year, end up really loving.”
Beyond his teaching methods and classroom environment, Nyfenger is deeply committed to fostering empathy and understanding among his students. He continuously inspires students in AP Psychology and Child Psychology to develop a deeper awareness of people and how they function. “I don’t expect my students to remember how everything works, but I do hope that they leave with a better understanding of how people work,” he said. “And if they do, then ultimately they’ll be more compassionate. That’s the goal.”
For Nyfenger, the relationships he builds with his students are the most meaningful part of his job. Those connections motivate him to keep moving forward and deepen his passion for teaching. “I love the content,” he said. “I have a passion for the things that I teach. But without the students, I don’t know that that would be enough to get me across the line.”
It is certainly no coincidence that Nyfenger won this year’s Tenafly Teacher of the Year award, as his students have expressed great appreciation for him and his classes. So, if you are a student interested in psychology or just looking for a fun and relaxing educational elective, look no further than Mr. Nyfenger’s AP Psychology and Child Psychology courses.
