A firm believer in student-centered, inquiry-based instruction, Michael Lobdell is an impressive educator posting a string of important accomplishments at Pilgrim High School. Dual-certified in chemistry and biology, he built a substantive resume in the private sector before becoming a full-time teacher.
In his classroom, Lobdell puts an inordinate amount of effort into his lessons. Focused first and foremost on his students, he integrates technology and a workshop model based on grouping and teamwork. Lobdell also assimilates film and literature into his academics as metaphors for scientific processes. Additionally, he reinstituted Pilgrim High’s involvement in the statewide academic decathlon, coordinates the school science fair and helped write a grant to enable selected students to conduct original lab research at a local college over the summer. Lobdell also established a Homework Club open to all students at the school.
Servicing as facilitator for districtwide professional development, Lobdell is Pilgrim’s liaison to the Rhode Island science and engineering fair. He is also a member of the school Steering Committee and responsible for helping implement campus improvements. He has helped align the curriculum for the science department, developed the AP biology curriculum and was instrumental in developing and building assessment tasks for Graduation by Proficiency. Lobdell helps to promote Rhode Island’s new teacher evaluation system among colleagues, eventually smoothing the ensuing transition.
