Richard says that a great teacher spells his name in fire on the blackboard or submerges himself in a barrel of water because he knows that exciting lessons inspire kids to learn the scientific principles at hand. Ognibene believes that teaching is the noblest job in the world because “we bring hope for the future. That is why I was drawn to teaching, and that is why I stay.”
Richard T. Ognibene
Fairport, NY | Years Taught: 1986 – Present
Additional Recognition
- 2011 • Empire State Pride Agenda Community Service Award
- 2009 • Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence (National Education Association)
- 2008 • New York State Teacher of the Year
- 2008 • Betsey Exner Leadership Award (Fairport Educators’ Association)
- 2007 • Key to the City of Rochester
- 2006 • Crystal Apple Award
- 2005 • One Teacher in Ten Award