Articles
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Spotlight: Meredith Reid (KS '24)
August 20, 2025Kansas Milken Educator Meredith Reid (KS ‘24) is a seventh through 12th grade music teacher at Girard High School. Reid, a dynamic force in choral music education, has revived and led Girard High School's award-winning choir to new heights. With numerous regional and state accolades, Reid is shaping the future of music in her community. Beyond the classroom, her mentorship, leadership, and dedication to lifelong music appreciation inspire students and educators alike. Reid received her Milken Educator Award on January 8, 2025.
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Spotlight: Kristy Inamasu (HI '24)
August 14, 2025Hawaii Milken Educator Kristy Inamasu (HI ‘24) is a kindergarten teacher at Kalihi Uka Elementary School. Inamasu teaches students to take risks, share ideas, and own their growth in her classroom. A trailblazer at Kalihi Uka, Inamasu leads by example, inspiring both students and fellow educators to embrace creativity and accountability. Inamasu received her Milken Educator Award on January 28, 2025.
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Spotlight: Amanda Duplessy (MS '24)
August 13, 2025Mississippi Milken Educator Amanda Duplessy (MS ‘24) is a K-5 ELA instructional support specialist and previous fifth grade teacher at Oak Grove Elementary School. Duplessy’s commitment to student success shines through in every lesson. By tailoring her curriculum to meet individual needs and fostering leadership in both students and teachers, she inspires academic growth and community engagement. Duplessy received a Milken Educator Award on January 29, 2025.
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Spotlight: Mary Travis (AL '24)
August 12, 2025Alabama Milken Educator Mary Travis (AL ‘24) is a math coach teacher at Dr. Robert W. Gilliard Elementary School. Travis sparks curiosity and inspires future leaders by bringing learning to life with hands-on projects. Beyond the classroom, Travis mentors new educators, shares her expertise districtwide, and fosters lasting connections with her students and their families. Travis received her Milken Educator Award on January 30, 2025.
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Spotlight: Luke Kanine (MI '24)
August 11, 2025Michigan Milken Educator Luke Kanine (MI ‘24) is a Spanish and physical education teacher and behavior interventionist at E.F. Rittmueller Middle School. He combines innovative teaching with a deep commitment to social-emotional learning. Whether it’s teaching Spanish, encouraging personal growth in P.E., or mentoring fellow educators, Kanine creates a supportive, nurturing environment where students and colleagues alike can thrive. Kanine received his Milken Educator Award on January 24, 2025.
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Spotlight: Jessica Wentz (IL '24)
August 7, 2025Illinois Milken Educator Jessica Wentz (IL ‘24) is a first grade teacher and former student at Lincoln Grade School. Wentz makes learning an adventure—whether it’s through “Adjective Runway” fashion shows or “Hulk Smash” math games! Her passion for data-driven teaching and love for science-based methods transform her classroom to ensure every child succeeds. Wentz received her Milken Educator Award on January 17, 2025.
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Spotlight: Holly Hunter (IA '24)
August 6, 2025Iowa Milken Educator Holly Hunter (IA ‘24) is an English language arts and reading teacher at Davis Elementary School. As a leader in her school and district, Hunter fosters a culture of growth and empowerment, supporting both students and colleagues through continuous learning and development. With a focus on building confidence, community and lifelong skills, Hunter creates a lasting impact on every child she teaches. Hunter received her Milken Educator Award on January 16, 2025.
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Spotlight: Derek Tharp (AR '24)
August 4, 2025Arkansas Milken Educator Derek Tharp (AR ‘24) was a Southside Middle School math teacher when he received his Milken Award. This fall, he will be assistant principal at Southside Elementary School. In his role as a Southside Middle school math teacher, he went above and beyond to ensure student success, providing support before school, after school, and even during lunch. Tharp leads by example, empowering students and fellow educators to reach their full potential. Tharp received an Arkansas Milken Educator Award on January 9, 2025.
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Spotlight: Emily Snyder (AK '24)
July 31, 2025Alaska Milken Educator Emily Snyder (AK ‘24) is a reading specialist and instructional coach at Nenana City School District. Through her passion for literacy and leadership in the district, Snyder helps students take ownership of their learning and drives growth and excellence districtwide. Snyder received a 2024-25 Milken Educator Award on December 19, 2024.
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Spotlight: Rashinda Billie (NM '24)
July 29, 2025New Mexico Milken Educator Rashinda Billie (NM ‘24) is a fifth grade teacher at Kirtland Elementary School. Billie’s classroom is a dynamic space where learning comes to life through hands-on experiences and innovative teaching methods. A proud member of the Navajo community, she fosters growth, curiosity and excitement in her fifth graders, leading them to thrive academically and personally. Billie received a 2024-25 Milken Educator Award on January 15, 2025.