LANSING, Mich. — Christy Trombetta, of Grosse Ile, Mich. has been named a 2021 Michigan Virtual Online Teacher of the Year — an annual distinction given to online instructors who have demonstrated excellence and made a positive impact in the online classroom.
“This past year has presented untold challenges for students, so to receive a nomination from both a peer and a student praising a teacher for their efforts is both heartwarming and a testament to their efforts,” said Jamey Fitzpatrick, president and CEO of Michigan Virtual. “Christy is a shining example of how remote learning can ensure student success, and more importantly, build bonds that empower and uplift our youth.”
“Christy is a shining example of how remote learning can ensure student success, and more importantly, build bonds that empower and uplift our youth.”
Jamey Fitzpatrick, President & CEO of Michigan Virtual
In a letter from Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Trombetta was praised for her dedication and contribution to student success: “Over the past year, you have shown exceptional commitment to your students and outstanding devotion to building a strong educational foundation in Michigan. This past year has been a difficult one, however, through your determination, insight, and leadership, you have persevered and instilled the joy of learning in countless students and led them to grow into strong, resilient individuals.”
“This past year has been a difficult one, however, through [Trombetta’s] determination, insight, and leadership, [she has] persevered and instilled the joy of learning in countless students and led them to grow into strong, resilient individuals.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Since 2009, Michigan Virtual has annually honored outstanding online educators through this award. Trombetta, a senior math instructor with Michigan Virtual since 2018, was praised for her ability to help students master concepts by working with them on their unique challenges.
Trombetta received multiple nomination letters, including one from a student, stating: “Once I reached out to Mrs. Trombetta I started getting better scores while genuinely understanding the content. Right now I’m ahead of where I thought I would be thanks to her patience, teaching methods, and dedication.”
“Once I reached out to Mrs. Trombetta I started getting better scores while genuinely understanding the content. Right now I’m ahead of where I thought I would be thanks to her patience, teaching methods, and dedication.”
One of Trombetta’s online students
Trombetta earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Western Michigan University, received her master’s in Mathematics at Eastern Michigan University, and studied at the University of Michigan Dearborn for graduate studies. She previously held teaching positions with the Covenant House Academy Southwest, Westwood Community Schools, and Taylor Public Schools.
Since its inception in 2009, 15 teachers have received the distinction of being named a Michigan Virtual Online Teacher of the Year. To be selected, key criteria include a positive impact on students, continuous improvement of practice, and a vision for the future of online education. This distinguished award was created to set a bar for excellence and put a face to the incredible teachers in the digital learning community.
