12/08/2017
It is with great sadness that I write to inform you that Tim Comolli has passed away. Tim was a legendary educator- not only in South Burlington, not only in Vermont, but also nationally and internationally. Tim was one of the first recipients of a Bill Gates “Road Ahead” award and was at the forefront of technology education and innovation, receiving accolades all around the country too numerous to mention.
At the same time, Tim was just an unassuming boy from Montpelier, always self-deprecating and a true “teacher’s teacher.” Tim inspired both students and teachers alike with his quick wit, commitment to education, and tireless work ethic.
Tim’s most obvious legacy was the creation of the Imaging Lab, resulting in state-of-the-art technology during a time when schools were barely being introduced to the power of this new form of learning. On the wall of the Imaging Lab, Tim had a banner with the following quote by Alfred Lord Tennyson: “For I dipt into the future, far as human eye could see, saw a vision of the world, and all the wonder that would be.”
Tim Comolli was a teacher who understood long before it became a catch phrase that teachers truly touch the future. His ability to inspire students to find their own voice and pursue their own dreams was a model for every teacher, no matter what grade or subject area they teach. Rather than imparting wisdom, which he also did in his own understated way, Tim led students to recognize their own potential. The legion of faithful former students who sing his praises to this day is a testament to his success.
And so now we wish him Godspeed, knowing that his legacy will live on in any among us fortunate enough to have called him a teacher, colleague, mentor, or friend.
