Newton Falls, OH (February 25, 2026) – Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Lora Sembach as a nominee for the Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year award. Mrs. Sembach will be formally recognized on March 3, 2026 alongside fellow nominees from across the Mahoning Valley.
Mrs. Sembach exemplifies the best of public education through her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to students. Her impact extends well beyond the classroom, reflecting a deep understanding that strong programs, meaningful experiences, and intentional leadership shape students’ academic, social, and personal growth.
Across the district, Mrs. Sembach is widely recognized as a teacher leader. She has taken the initiative to design, build, and sustain programs that provide students with opportunities to grow as learners, leaders, and community members.
Through her leadership of student programs focused on service, leadership development, and enrichment, she has created experiences that students carry with them long after graduation.
“It is my distinct honor, as Superintendent of Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools, to offer my full support and recognition of Mrs. Lora Sembach as a recipient of the Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year nomination,” said Andreas Johansson, PhD, Superintendent.
Her classes and programs are thoughtfully managed, student-centered, and rooted in equity, ensuring all students have access to meaningful opportunities regardless of circumstance.
“When I visit Mrs. Sembach’s classroom, I am consistently impressed by what I see,” Johansson added. “Her classroom operates like a well-oiled machine, with students engaged, focused, and clearly invested in their learning. Expectations are clear, relationships are strong, and learning is purposeful. Seeing her in action makes me proud to lead in Newton Falls, and proud of the level of professionalism, care, and excellence our students experience every day.”
Mrs. Sembach’s influence is felt by students, colleagues, and the broader school community. She is a trusted leader among staff, a collaborative partner, and a steady presence who raises expectations while offering support. Her ability to mentor students, guide peers, and strengthen school culture reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and a genuine belief in every student’s potential.
Most importantly, the experiences Mrs. Sembach creates help shape lifelong memories for Newton Falls students. Whether through leadership opportunities, academic challenges, service learning, or community engagement, she consistently provides spaces where students feel valued, challenged, and inspired.
These experiences foster confidence, responsibility, and a sense of belonging that extends beyond the school day and into the community.
Mrs. Sembach represents the values Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools strives to uphold: excellence, service, and opportunity for every learner. The district congratulates Mrs. Sembach on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates the positive, lasting impact she continues to make in Newton Falls.
About the Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year Award
The Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year award, created by Hubbard High School art instructor Josh MacMillan and supported by the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, recognizes teachers from Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana counties who go above and beyond. Abbie Millard of West Branch Middle School was named the first Educator of the Year in 2025. The second annual event, recognizing 41 educators, is scheduled for March 3, 2026, at the Eastwood Event Centre.
About Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools
Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools serves students and families across the Newton Falls community, committed to safe schools, strong academic growth, and opportunities that help every student belong, contribute, and succeed.
Media Contact:
Andreas Johansson, PhD
Superintendent | Newton Falls Exempted Village Schools