2 Essex County Teachers Ace New York City Marathon

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Teaching is a test of endurance, just like long-distance running. So maybe it’s not surprising that a pair of educators from Essex County conquered one of the most iconic marathons in the nation last weekend.

On Nov. 3, runners from across the U.S. took part in the 49th TCS New York City Marathon course, which led participants through the five boroughs of the city on their way to the finish line.

Essex County had at least two educators involved in the effort: Samantha Minnella of the West Essex Regional School District and Nicole Fleck of the West Orange Public School District.

School administrators shared hearty congratulations for the pair on social media.

SAMANTHA MINNELLA

The West Essex Regional School District posted the following message on Monday:

“Yesterday, one of our own teachers, Ms. Samantha Minnella conquered the 49th TCS New York City Marathon. She raised money through donations in support of Memorial Sloan Kettering and was surrounded by 50,000 other marathon racers. Samantha is now a part of the elite group of people to complete such an unbelievable mental, physical, and emotional challenge. Samantha finished the race in a little over 4 hours. Enduring months of training with a rigorous teaching and coaching schedule is something to be proud of. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!”

NICOLE FLECK

The West Orange Public School District posted the following message on Monday:

“Amazing! West Orange High School Physical Education/Health Teacher Ms. Nicole Fleck completed the TCS New York City Marathon yesterday with a finishing time of 4 hours and 7 mins. Her goal was to average a 10-minute mile and she finished averaging a 9 minute 26 second mile. This was her first marathon. Way to go Ms. Fleck!”

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