Another RI Educator Wins 'Oscars Of Teaching'

CENTRAL FALLS, RI — Another Rhode Island teacher received an award from a national nonprofit recognizing him as one of the best in the nation.

In a surprise assembly Tuesday afternoon, John Rosenbaum, a sixth grade social studies teacher at Segue Institute for Learning in Central Falls, received a $25,000 Milken Educator Award for his unique approach to teaching. He was also celebrated for bringing learning to life through educational, creative experiences his students will remember for a lifetime.

Rhode Island Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green joined Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Jane Foley to surprise Lawrence with the national honor, which includes an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize.

Rosenbaum will join a national network of more than 2,800 Milken Educators and education leaders across the U.S.

"It is a truly unique individual who can make learning come to life in the classroom, and John Rosenbaum is one of those educators," Foley said. "His creative, hands-on approach to learning, his commitment to advocate for his students, and his collaborative approach to learning are what make him a Milken Educator Award recipient."

Rosenbaum is among more than 60 educators nationwide to receive the recognition during the 2021-2022 school year, and only one of two recipients in Rhode Island.

"Outstanding teachers like John Rosenbaum ignite a passion for learning in their students and bring lessons to life," Infante-Green said. "It is clear John has made a tremendous impact on his students and colleagues and I look forward to watching his passion and growth in the years ahead. His innovative practices and dedication will certainly inspire students and help them leap ahead in academic achievement."

Hailed as the "Oscars of Teaching," the Milken Educator Awards celebrate the unique stories of educators making a difference in their students' lives. The awards are not designated for lifetime achievement. Recipients are heralded while early to mid-career for what they have achieved — and for the promise of what they will accomplish given the resources and opportunities inherent in the award.

Oprah Winfrey, a longtime education advocate, shared her congratulations to this year’s winners in a video message shared earlier this year, thanking “the most incredible educators around the country" and acknowledging her appreciation for the "tireless work" they do.