A Lawrence Middle School eighth grader shared the stage with one of the world’s most prominent advocates for education and peace at this year’s N.J. Education Association Convention.
On Nov. 6, student Ava DeLeo joined Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai as a panelist during the convention’s opening keynote in Atlantic City.
DeLeo was one of just three public school students selected from across the state to take part in the event, which drew thousands of educators.
The conversation, moderated by NJEA President Steve Beatty, focused on education, equity, leadership, and global peace.
During the panel, Yousafzai turned the conversation back to DeLeo, asking who her favorite teacher was.
DeLeo replied, “All of them, but if I had to pick one, my social studies teacher Ms. Tarasov, because she always pushed her students to do the right thing and make the right decisions.”
DeLeo was selected for the honor due to her advocacy work and her leadership in the World Peace Game, a collaborative diplomacy and strategy simulation that encourages students to solve complex global challenges.
The game has been held in Lawrence Township for three consecutive summers through a grant-supported partnership between the NJEA, the Lawrence Township Education Association, Lawrence Township Public Schools and the World Peace Game Foundation.
“We are incredibly proud of Ava and the thoughtful voice she brought to such an important conversation,” said Superintendent Robyn Klim. “Her selection and participation reflect the empathy, leadership, and global awareness we strive to foster in all LTPS students.”
DeLeo’s presence at the NJEA Convention was a proud moment for the district and a reminder of the power of student voices on the world stage.
Malala Yousafzai (left) and Ava DeLeo at the 2025 N.J. Education Association Convention.,
