Jersey City teacher dies at age 37
Union president for paraprofessionals passes away at age 37.
The Passing of Keith Olkewicz: A Heartfelt Loss for Jersey City School District
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Keith Olkewicz, a distinguished paraprofessional and union president of the Jersey City School District. Keith, aged 37, succumbed to a short illness on Tuesday, leaving behind a void that will be deeply felt by his colleagues and loved ones.
Superintendent Norma Fernandez expressed her shock and condolences, stating, “The untimely death of Keith Olkewicz, an employee and colleague, is a shocking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this extremely difficult time and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.”
Keith Olkewicz: A Dedicated Educator and Union Leader
Born and raised in Jersey City, Keith Olkewicz attended public schools before joining the district as a paraprofessional in November 2012. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a passion for education and a commitment to serving the community.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Keith was named the district’s 2017-18 Education Provider of the Year. Additionally, in 2018, he was elected as the president of the 380-member Para Professional Association, a role in which he tirelessly advocated for the rights and well-being of his fellow paraprofessionals.
Keith Olkewicz dedicated his time and expertise to the Gerard J. Dynes Regional Day School, where he worked diligently to ensure the success and growth of the students he served.
A Legacy of Accomplishments
One of Keith’s final acts as president was negotiating a new four-year contract with the district, securing favorable terms for his colleagues. The contract included a 4.75% increase in wages for the 2023-24 school year, as well as a 3.11% increase for the subsequent three school years.
His tireless efforts and dedication did not go unnoticed. Jim McGreevey, founder and chairman of the New Jersey Reentry Corp., described Keith as a “blessing of decency, commitment, and determination to our Jersey City school district” in a heartfelt social media post.
Adela Rohena, a fellow paraprofessional at School 26, praised Keith for his unwavering dedication to his union members, stating, “He was a true fighter who cared deeply about the union members he represented.”
A Profound Loss for the Jersey City School District
Keith Olkewicz’s passing is a profound loss for the Jersey City School District and the wider community. His commitment to education, advocacy, and his fellow colleagues set an example for all.
As we mourn his untimely departure, let us remember Keith Olkewicz for his remarkable contributions and the positive impact he made on the lives of students and educators alike. May his legacy serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
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– Jersey City teacher and union president for paraprofessionals passes away at age 37
– Sad demise of young Jersey City teacher and paraprofessionals union president.
