Articles
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Spotlight: Marcus Ross (ID '24)
June 5, 2025Idaho Milken Educator Marcus Ross (ID ‘24) is an eighth and ninth grade teacher and former student at Lakes Middle School in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Ross uses creativity and connection in the classroom, from creating mystery games for teaching statistics to implementing a unique classroom management system for keeping his students engaged and motivated. Ross received a 2024-25 Idaho Milken Educator Award on November 20, 2024.
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Spotlight: Maria Santonastaso (RI '24)
June 2, 2025Rhode Island Milken Educator Maria Santonastaso (RI ‘24) is a kindergarten teacher at Glen Hills Elementary School in Cranston. Santonastaso is known for inspiring curiosity and creativity for each student through mindfulness, collaborative teaching, and project-based learning. Santonastaso received a 2024–25 Rhode Island Milken Educator Award on October 22, 2024, launching the 2024-25 Milken Educator Award season.
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Spotlight: Emily Litz (NJ '24)
May 28, 2025New Jersey Milken Educator Emily Litz (NJ ‘24) is a fifth grade teacher at Malcolm E. Nettingham Middle School in Scotch Plains. Litz is known for creating an inclusive and engaging classroom environment that empowers students through hands-on, inquiry-based learning and real-time instructional adjustments. Litz received a 2024–25 New Jersey Milken Educator Award on November 14, 2024, making her the first recipient from her district.
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Spotlight: Jessica Chapman (CT '24)
May 22, 2025Connecticut Milken Educator Jessica Chapman (CT ‘24) is a ninth through 12th grade teacher at Norwich Free Academy. Chapman creates an inclusive,inspiring social studies classroom for her students to thrive. Her tailored curriculum engages everyone from multilingual learners to college-credit seniors, sparking curiosity and global responsibility.
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Spotlight: John Melandro (NY '24)
May 20, 2025New York Milken Educator John Melandro (NY ‘24) is a fifth grade general elementary teacher at Tangier Smith Elementary School. Melandro is passionate about building relationships with students and ensuring they feel valued and seen. Melandro keeps the wonder of learning alive in his classroom through engaging experiences ranging from magic tricks to hosting guest speakers from fields like culinary arts and cosmetology.
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Reactions and Takeaways from the 2025 MEA Forum
April 30, 2025Milken Educators share the moments and ideas that inspired them at the 2025 MEA Forum. -
Spotlight: Maggie Jiang Arnold (MD '23)
October 18, 2024Maryland Milken Educator Maggie Jiang Arnold is a ninth through 12th grade math teacher at Frederick High School. She empowers students through innovative methods rooted in Mind Brain Education, fostering critical thinking and real world problem solving. Her commitment to building strong relationships with students and families, along with her leadership in curriculum development, has made her a respected figure in the school community. "Taking the time to build relationships with students is the key to successful teaching. Students work harder for you when they know that you are on their side and that you believe in them."
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Spotlight: Aga Cook (AZ '23)
October 17, 2024Arizona Milken Educator Aga Cook is currently a K-8 curriculum coordinator and Mohave Valley Connections Academy principal within the Mohave Valley School District. At the time of her Award, she was a fifth grade teacher at Camp Mohave Elementary School. Known for her creative lessons and community partnerships, she's equipped her students with real-world experiences, from following daily stock market trends to running through mock trials. "Community connection is a powerful tool in teaching our students. We need to give students a reason to learn and to see that education opens doors to various career pathways."
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Spotlight: Kelly Hamilton (ID '23)
October 16, 2024Idaho Milken Educator Kelly Hamilton is a ninth through 12th grade assistant principal and dean of students at Compass Academy. As the school's former art teacher, Hamilton's creativity and positivity drive her passion for helping students and colleagues reach their highest potential. "I hope that by interacting with me, students develop an inner narrative that speaks to the beat of persistence, determination and confidence."
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Spotlight: Meghan Stubbs (ME '23)
October 15, 2024Maine Milken Educator Meghan Stubbs is a 10th through 12th grade early childhood education teacher at Hancock County Technical Center. Stubbs is passionate about equipping students for future leadership roles and emphasizing the importance of civic involvement. "I hope my students know I care about their futures and the great things they’ll be bringing to the world."