Three teachers are being recognized for their dedication and impact on students at this year’s EMSB Teacher Recognition Awards.
The celebration is taking place on Friday at Laurier Macdonald High School (LMAC) in Montreal’s Saint Leonard, where educators, students, and community members are gathering to honour the recipients’ commitment to excellence in education at the English Montreal School Board (EMSB).
“Each honoree will receive a $150 gift certificate from Baton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar, gift cards to the new CineStarz Deluxe Multiplex in Saint Leonard,” explained Mike Cohen, Marketing and Communications Manager at the EMSB. “We are proud to honour three outstanding educators at a special ceremony.”
The event is taking place on the same day as the EMSB’s Teacher Recognition Day.Meet the three honourees:
Anna Maria LombardoMath and Science & Technology Teacher, LMAC
After earning a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and education, Lombardo has been teaching since 2004.
“What I like most about my job is connecting with my students and building meaningful relationships with them,” she says. “I really enjoy seeing the impact I can have, especially in those moments when something finally clicks and they understand a concept. Knowing that I can make a difference in their learning and confidence is what makes teaching so rewarding.
“I always knew I wanted to work with kids, but I had a hard time figuring out exactly which career path to take. At first, I was interested in becoming a child psychologist. While I was in school, I did a lot of tutoring, and that’s when I realized how much I enjoyed teaching. That experience led me to pursue a career in education, and I felt that my background in psychology would be really helpful in understanding and supporting my students.”
Having grown up in the East End of Montreal, teaching at LMAC is something she loves and feels connected to.
“What I like most about LMAC is the strong sense of community and family,” she says. “ The bond between teachers and students creates a positive environment where students feel connected and supported. Lastly, the teachers at LMAC are incredible; we work together to support our students, and everyone should be recognized for their hard work and dedication.”
Parents thank Lombardo for the extra attention she provides to students in her math class.
“Ms. Lombardo has a way of making complex ideas feel simple and achievable,” said parent Maria Sansalone, who nominated her. “Her clear explanations, patience, and encouragement create a supportive learning environment where questions are always welcome. She is a great math teacher overall.”
Luigi RucciAutomobile Mechanics Teacher, Laurier Macdonald Career Centre
With over 20 years of working in the automotive industry as a first-class automotive technician, including time with Volkswagen and General Motors, Rucci has developed a strong passion not only for the trade itself but for sharing that knowledge with others.
“I enjoy breaking down complex concepts and connecting theory to real-world situations, making learning more meaningful and practical,” he says. “ I believe in creating a supportive environment where students feel respected, motivated, and encouraged to grow.”
That could be seen in his classroom. There, he focuses on helping students build both their technical skills and their confidence.
“At 41 years of age and being out of school for so long, I was scared it would be very hard for me. I’m glad to say it was an amazing experience from the beginning till the very end,” said former student Jonathan Vargas, who nominated him. “The facility, the teachers, and equipment lived up to expectations. For someone who had zero experience in the auto industry, I now am able to work everything from engines to transmission without being scared.”
Outside of teaching, Rucci spends much of his time restoring classic cars from the 1970s to 1990s.
“This passion for craftsmanship is something I bring into my teaching every day, with the goal of inspiring students to take pride in their work and carry those values into their future careers,” he says.
“Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today, answering any and all my calls after school when I was stuck working and practicing on my own,” added Vargas. “I’m grateful to him and to the school, for having such life-changing teachers like him.”
Patty FoschiPhysical Education Teacher, Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary School
For as long as she could remember, Foschi says that she always wanted to be a teacher.
“I always imagined creating fun, engaging lessons and inspiring my students to learn,” she explained. “When I arrived at McGill University, however, I faced an important decision: would my classroom be a traditional one, or a gymnasium? By combining my love for teaching children with my passion for sports, I discovered my true calling in physical education—and I never looked back. I was fortunate to secure a teaching position at the age of 22, and what a remarkable journey it has been.”
Throughout her now 26-year career, she has been a strong advocate for the importance of quality physical education.
“It is a foundation for social, emotional, physical, and lifelong skills—especially in today’s increasingly “on‑screen” world,” she said. “I have taught students from Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 6, including SEEDS classes. I am incredibly fortunate to work alongside a supportive staff and devoted families who encourage me to organize and lead numerous physical activities, competitions, and field trips. These experiences are essential in reinforcing skills learned at school and helping students apply them in real‑world settings, fostering healthy and happy school lives.”
One of the greatest joys of her life, she says: teaching physical education and health.
“Seeing the joy on their faces when they master a skill warms my heart,” she explained. “Whether it’s catching a tennis ball, skipping rope, creating a circus routine, downhill skiing, or training for and winning a race. The moments are endless.”
Foschi’s ultimate goal is to provide students with the skills of resilience, empathy, sportsmanship, teamwork, and—most importantly—a lifelong love of physical activity.
“Ms. Patty stands out as an exceptional educator because of her unique ability to make every child believe they can succeed,” said parent Evelyn Tsang, who nominated her. “The impact she has on students is profound. Our child looks forward to every class with excitement and has developed both confidence and enthusiasm for physical activity.”
“Ms. Patty makes each student feel seen and capable,” she added. “In terms of character, she exemplifies patience, empathy, and professionalism.”
“The long-term impact of her work is unmistakable,” said another parent, Natalie Caine. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, when physical education moved online, one parent recalled being introduced to Ms. Patty over Zoom as she managed to engage a kindergarten student in active movement from their living room. That same energy continues to define her work today.”
“The big smiles, hugs, and joyful conversations I experience every day make this profession truly special,” said Foschi. “Pierre Elliott Trudeau Elementary feels like a second home, and I am deeply grateful to be part of such a wonderful community.”
EMSB receives donation for four Saint Leonard schools
On Friday, the EMSB also celebrated receiving a donation of $20,000 for four schools in Saint Leonard.
EMSB Chair Joe Ortona and Commissioner for Saint Leonard Mario Pietrangelo were elated with the news of the donation by Tommaso Marcantonio of Gestion MMTP.
This will enable three elementary schools — Dante, Honoré-Mercier and Pierre-de-Coubertin — as well as Laurier Macdonald High School to purchase equipment or other items not covered in the regular budget for the next calendar year. They will each be allocated $5,000.
“At a time when the government has imposed significant budget cuts,” said Ortona. “We are grateful for this generous contribution.”
