The Janet S. Lobsenz Award was established in 2002 by the Bergen County School Boards Association to honor the dedicated service of Janet S. Lobsenz, a former field representative for the New Jersey School Boards Association and a long-time board of education member in Bergen County.
This award is given to a board member who demonstrates Lobsenz’s strong dedication to both personal and professional growth, as well as active participation in educational governance at the local, county, and state levels. To qualify for this award, nominees must attain Certified Board Member status through the NJSBA Board Member Academy. A review panel, independent of Bergen County, evaluates the applications to select the recipient.
Ray Pinney, NJSBA Chief Membership Engagement Officer, presented the 2025 award.
Michael J. Sprague from the Norwood School District Board of Education has been named the 2025 Janet S. Lobsenz Award recipient. He was first elected to the board in May 1987 and is now celebrating his 38th year of service. During this time, he has served as board president or vice president for 25 years, navigating multiple superintendent searches and overseeing two successful referendums. Sprague has earned his Certified Board Leader Certification through the NJSBA Board Member Academy and regularly participates in various non-mandatory programs each year.
Having worked alongside Janet Lobsenz as a fellow board member, Sprague recalls Janet playing a key role in leading the Norwood Board through their initial certification process, and noted her unwavering passion for her work.
