Rejily Soriano wants her students to remember the milestones they tackled in kindergarten, and the hard work behind their success: “If they apply that lesson throughout their life, they can achieve anything.”
Fourth grade teacher Jenna Dean mentors pre-service teachers to prepare them for job interviews and their first classrooms. To her delight, her district has hired several: “There is such a sense of pride getting to work with the students you mentored and seeing their success each and every day.”
Growing up in an immigrant family instilled in Esther Kwon the importance of serving her community and helping others strengthen their sense of belonging: “I chose education because it empowers me to contribute to the greater good with honor and integrity.”
Lisa Moody, who has cerebral palsy, carries a unique perspective into her special education classroom: “My experiences have given me a desire to create a more equitable and inclusive learning environment for every student.”
No one at Katherine Dunn Elementary was shocked to see Liz Barnum break into a joyful dance at her Milken Award assembly: “My students see me celebrate their successes all year long the same way.”
Principal Dr. Bryan Cutter created his school’s elementary STEM lab to get younger students excited about the benefits of STEM learning. It’s served as a model for the district and region and is “my proudest accomplishment to date.”
For Corrie Campbell, success means instilling a love for reading and writing: “Creating lifelong learners helps their dreams come true.”
Vanessa Thomson dedicates her practice to reaching every student, both quiet and loud, confident and struggling: “Every day, I work to make them feel seen, valued, and like they can be anything in this world.”
Elaine Hill credits mentors for helping her shape her practice, from content and organization to creativity and leadership: “All my role models are committed to helping others succeed.”
Elise Tureau Frederic was “underprepared and overwhelmed” during her first year in the classroom. Her school leaders and coworkers got her through it: “I am so thankful they saw potential in me.”
