In a surprise assembly at Southbridge Middle School, sixth-grade science teacher Jillian Lombardi was honored with the Milken Educator Award, a national recognition for outstanding educators. Lombardi, who had no idea she was even in the running, received a check for $25,000 as part of the award. The Milken Educator Awards are known for acknowledging exceptional K-12 educators across the country, singling out around 40 teachers each year for their commitment and innovative approaches to teaching. Lombardi is the sole recipient from Massachusetts this season.
Caught off guard during what seemed to be a routine school event, Lombardi was described as feeling "shocked" and "overwhelmed" upon hearing her name announced for the award. She told the Telegram, "When they were describing the award, I thought that we have so many great teachers in the science department, it could have been anyone." Lombardi's authentic humility reflects her seven years of dedicated teaching experience in Southbridge.
The Milken Family Foundation, upon presenting the award, cited Lombardi's utilization of the OpenSciEd curriculum, which is based on inquiry and has been adopted by her district. Lombardi’s teaching prowess extends beyond the classroom walls, evident in her role as coach for the girls' basketball and tennis teams and her involvement in various school committees. Emphasizing her impact, Jeffrey Villar, Southbridge Public Schools receiver/superintendent, said on the Telegram, "Jill is a shining example of the incredible educators who work in Southbridge PublicSchools. She has dedicated her career to making science come alive in her classes andis a quiet leader among her peers."
Acknowledging how the award highlights the positive strides being made within Southbridge Public Schools, Lombardi voiced her appreciation, saying on the Telegram, "There are a lot of great things that are going on in Southbridge, and unfortunately the town doesn't always get recognized for the good that is going on." Lombardi’s sentiments echo the investment and efforts of Southbridge educators who strive daily to overcome the challenges posed by state receivership following years of academic difficulties. Boston25News reported Acting DESE Commissioner Russell Johnston's elated reaction as well, "I could not be happier to see Jillian Lombardi recognized with this honor," having personally witnessed the innovation and commitment in her classroom.
As a result of receiving the Milken Educator Award, Lombardi will join the "Milken Educator Network," a community of past recipients that spans nearly four decades, as mentioned on Boston25News. She will also participate in a professional development workshop in Los Angeles, courtesy of the Milken Foundation. Lombardi's impressive academic credentials include a bachelor's degree in animal science from the University of Rhode Island and a master's degree in education from American International College.
