Uxbridge High School Teacher Michael Smutok to be Recognized by Harvard Club of Boston as Prize Book Award Recipient

UXBRIDGE — Superintendent Michael Baldassarre and Principal Michael Rubin are pleased to announce that Uxbridge High School technology education and engineering teacher Michael Smutok has been named the Prize Book Award recipient. 

The Prize Book Award, presented by the Harvard Club of Boston, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions toward the education of students in their communities, and who inspire curiosity and excellence in students. 

Smutok will be honored during a breakfast award ceremony at the Harvard Club of Boston on October 4. 

Smutok has served as a teacher at Uxbridge High School for over 15 years, where he has taught a variety of technology education and engineering courses. 

In 2022, Smutok piloted a national revision to the Project Lead The Way Common Capstone course and was recognized by Project Lead the Way as a Master Teacher. As Master Teacher, Smutok provides support to colleagues across the country in their respective courses, hosting office hours for teachers and allowing educators to observe their classes while teaching best practices in the classroom. 

“As we continue to advance innovation and connect students to the world beyond high school, Mike’s efforts to enhance and authenticate the classroom, experience has been second to none,” said Principal Rubin. “A recognition like this speaks to his immense impact, not only at UHS but across the region and state.”

Smutok has previously served as an adjunct instructor for the Blackstone Valley Education Hub and for the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, where he taught classes focused on manufacturing and employability skills. 

Smutok was also recognized by the MassSTEM Hub for his outstanding contributions to STEM education in the Commonwealth and was named the Uxbridge High School Teacher of the Year in 2019. 

“Michael’s unwavering commitment to our students’ growth and development has not only enriched the lives of those he educates but has also set a shining example for all educators,” Superintendent Baldassarre said. “Michael exemplifies the qualities that make our school district exceptional, and we are grateful for his invaluable contributions.” 

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