Sen. Martin & Rep. Petit Show Their Support for Educational Award Winner
January 25, 2019
Photo (L-R): Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley, State Senator Henri Martin, Commissioner of Education Dr. Dianna R. Wentzell, School Principal Lynn Logoyke, Governor Ned Lamont, Michael Zaba, State Representative William A. Petit Jr., and School District Superintendent Dr. Maureen Brummett.
PLAINVILLE – State Representative William A. Petit Jr.(R-22) and Sen. Henri Martin (R-31) were on hand to congratulate Toffolon Elementary School Art teacher Michael Zaba on being named Milken Educator Award Winner for the 2018-2019 year.
“It was really exciting to see Mr. Zaba’s surprise when the Governor announced he was receiving the award. I can only imagine what was going through his head. The school and everyone involved did a great job of making sure it was a special surprise for him,” said Sen. Henri Martin. “I was very impressed with how gracious he was, and how much Mr. Zaba appreciated the recognition from his peers and his students. The whole ceremony was really great, the Jazz Band was absolutely phenomenal, and I was happy to be there to show my support for such a wonderful teacher.”
“I congratulate Mr. Zaba on winning this amazing award due to his enthusiastic and innovative approach to teaching STEM to his young students. He is a great part of the excellent teaching team at Toffolon Elementary School and graciously shared credit for his achievement with his fellow teachers and staff. Plainville is grateful for his contributions to his students,” Rep. Petit said.
Dubbed the ‘Oscars of Teaching’ by Teacher Magazine, this prestigious award is only presented to thirty-three educators nationwide.
Zaba, the only educator from Connecticut to receive this year’s award, was presented with a check for $25,000 by Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley and Commissioner of Education Dr. Dianna R. Wentzell. Previous Milken Award winners from around the state were also on hand to congratulate Zaba on his outstanding achievement.
According to the Milken Educator Awards website, recipients are sourced through a confidential selection process and then reviewed by blue ribbon panels appointed by state departments of education. Those most exceptional are recommended for the Award, with final approval by the Milken Family Foundation.
