PACK PRIDE Staff Spotlight: Michael Oberholtzer

Our last Pack Pride staff spotlight of the 2025-26 school year goes to Michael Oberholtzer, a 5th-grade teacher at Joy Elementary! Principal Rozinski nominated Mr. Oberholtzer for his consistent efforts to go above and beyond for his classroom and for those in the Joy community.

Rozinski raved about multiple instances when Mr. Oberholtzer stepped in, zero hesitation, to support the betterment of Joy. 

“Michael stepped in as basketball coach so that our boys were able to finish their season. He volunteered to facilitate 5th-grade IREAD testing to ensure that those students had an optimal testing environment with a familiar teacher. But most importantly, Michael has also taken the lead on Joy’s Literacy Night. He organized the event while building in student voice by incorporating the student council to help plan and assist at the event.”

It’s inspiring to see how Mr. Oberholtzer’s flexibility and generosity are motivated by Joy’s own exercise of those characteristics. 

“The thing that I love most about MCAS is the resiliency shown by both staff and students,” he said. “No matter how difficult or challenging things can be, people associated with MCAS always put their nose to the grindstone and try their best, no matter what the challenge is.”

Mr. Oberholtzer mentioned that he was particularly proud of his students this year, who showed true resilience in passing the ILEARN Math Checkpoint 3.

“I have had several students who have never passed a checkpoint before, who passed one of the checkpoints this year!” he added.

The fifth-grade educator always perseveres with his students. “What motivates me to show up and give my best each day is seeing the lightbulb go off in students’ heads when something finally clicks for them. Helping students realize their full potential is why I love my job.”

Mr. Oberholtzer thrives in his position while being a strong model of the MCAS 7 Habits of Character especially with the initiatives he has recently taken charge on.

“Michael’s demonstrated flexibility in daily schedules to coach the basketball team when we were in a crunch and to alter his class schedule to help with IREAD,” said Rozinski. His work with the literacy night shows outstanding responsibility and accountability to the Joy community. Planning the literacy night has taken perseverance as he organized activities, adult volunteers, and students to ensure a successful event.”

His impact goes beyond the work itself. It’s rooted in the way he approaches every interaction and opportunity to make a difference.

“I hope that no matter how small it may be, I leave a lasting impression on each and every student, parent, and peer that I encounter.”

Congratulations, Michael! And thank you for the positive impact you make on MCAS every day.