Articles
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Spotlight: Kelly Ryan (LA '23)
October 8, 2024Louisiana Milken Educator Kelly Ryan is an 11th and 12th grade science teacher at Northshore High School. Ryan immerses her students in collaborative scientific exploration and emphasizes higher order thinking skills. She’s driven by her love for students. “At the end of the day, we’re there for the students. They are the ones who make the job worthwhile.”
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Spotlight: Eva Irwin (VA '23)
October 7, 2024Virginia Milken Educator Eva Irwin is the current dean of students at Yorktown High School. She previously served as a 10th and 11th grade English teacher at Alexandria City High School when she received her Award. Irwin is a natural instructional leader with a solutions-oriented approach. Her care for students’ well-being extends far beyond the classroom. “My students are always my students, even if they won’t be in my class anymore. I want them to know that I am always going to be an ally and advocate for them.”
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Spotlight: Ashli Knoell (NM '23)
October 7, 2024New Mexico Milken Educator Ashli Knoell is a ninth through 12th grade robotics and STEAM teacher at V. Sue Cleveland High School. Knoell emphasizes creativity and collaboration to seamlessly integrate STEAM into various subject areas in her classroom. She’s known for her innovation, enthusiasm, and connection with students. “I want to help students see the best in themselves, know they matter, and remember that failure is not an option — they can and will succeed.”
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Spotlight: Anna Katherine Davis (MS '23)
October 2, 2024Mississippi Milken Educator Anna Katherine Davis is a ninth through 12th grade math teacher at Houston High School. Always striving to grow and improve her instructional practices, she integrates technology into her curriculum whenever possible and consistently evolves to meet the needs of her students. “I know students will need technology to succeed in the real world, so I make sure to involve it every day in my classroom.”
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Spotlight: Heather Efaw (ID '23)
October 1, 2024Idaho Milken Educator Heather Efaw is a principal for kindergarten through sixth grade students at Future Public School. As an education leader in her school and community, she advocates for every student, empowering learners to soar to their fullest potential. "I want each student to walk away from our interactions with a belief in their own capabilities and a clear understanding that they can achieve their dreams.”
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Spotlight: Joshua Dingeldein (IN '23)
September 30, 2024Indiana Milken Educator Joshua Dingeldein is currently an assistant principal at Plymouth High School, having previously served as a ninth and 11th grade English language arts teacher. He utilizes data-driven strategies and new technology to expand his students’ experience. Dingeldein is passionate about mentoring and motivating strong teachers. “We need excellent teachers, and kids need adults who will help them pursue their dreams.”
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Spotlight: Paige Leddy (RI '23)
September 27, 2024Rhode Island Milken Educator Paige Leddy is a K-4 reading specialist at Richmond Elementary School. She leads with a growth mindset, using formative phonics assessments and student data to ensure students are on track. "We have such an important job. We have children who will be the next generation in our classroom every day, and we get to teach them how to explore the world and help them grow to become kind and respectful citizens."
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Spotlight: Juan Dominguez (TX '23)
September 25, 2024Texas Milken Educator Juan Dominguez is a master teacher at SSGT Michael P. Barrera Veterans Elementary. He focuses on relationship building and service to inspire both teachers and students. Dominguez firmly believes that everyone can reach their potential. “Kids need people that really care about them. In this profession anything is possible. What I love the most about it is that you can be a kid again.”
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Spotlight: Ashley Dunne (CT '23)
September 19, 2024Connecticut Milken Educator Ashley Dunne is a music teacher for grades K-5 at Gainfield Elementary School. Dunne collaborates with colleagues to connect music to what her students are learning in their math and history classes. Dunne hopes all of her students feel like they belong in her classroom. "Having a creative outlet and a place where students can be themselves is crucial to creating inclusive and welcoming schools."
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Spotlight: Grant Hegstad (IA '23)
September 17, 2024Iowa Milken Educator Grant Hegstad is an assistant principal and extended career experiences coordinator at MOC-Floyd Valley High School. Hegstad directs the school’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies which has quadrupled in size over the past year. The program helps students gain on-the-job training, real-world experiences, and secure job offers post-graduation. Hegstad cares about the longevity of his students both professionally and personally. "Educators have the privilege of investing in students during a crucial stage of their development and growth. This opportunity to shape young minds and future leaders is both a tremendous blessing and a large responsibility."