Jones Middle School media specialist Michelle Lombardi has been named the recipient of the 2019 WOSU Outstanding Teacher Award. She was recognized at the WOSU Innovation Mixer on April 9 and will be featured on-air on WOSU Public Radio and at https://wosu.org/classroom/.

Through Lombardi’s leadership and the financial support of the Upper Arlington Education Foundation, the Jones Learning Center has been transformed into an “iSpace” — with technology ranging from green screens and Padcasters to sound mixers and guitar microphones to Sphero robots and virtual-reality headsets. With these tools, students at Jones are taking virtual field trips around the world and through the solar system, applying their math and science skills through coding, and recording and sharing their learning. 

In recognizing Lombardi for the award, WOSU described her as a truly passionate educator who wants to ensure all students are challenged and flourish. 

Jones Middle School Principal Jason Fine echoed that.

 

“She is a superstar and an asset to everyone in our building,” he said. “She gives our students amazing opportunities to enhance their learning and explore their interests, and she collaborates with and supports our staff to explore new ways to integrate technology into the curriculum.”

Lombardi shared that she’s honored to have been chosen for this award. “I feel fortunate to work in a district where innovation is supported and encouraged,” Lombardi said. “I am beyond grateful to have such an amazing group of colleagues to learn from every day, and I love being able to provide my students with opportunities to create and grow.”