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The Surprise of a Lifetime for California Teacher Alexis Arias

The Surprise of a Lifetime for California Teacher Alexis Arias

INDIO, CALIFORNIA — The assembly on November 16, 2023 is one that Alexis Arias and students at Amistad High School will never forget! Lowell Milken, founder of the Milken Educator Awards, surprised the English and senior studies teacher with a $25,000 Milken Educator Award, the only one given in California this season. See how the big day unfolded!

Alexis is dedicated to giving back to the community where she grew up, empowering her students with the skills and confidence to pursue their goals after graduation. "When I see my students achieve, I feel fulfilled," Alexis said after the assembly. "I know that I'm in the right place and that what I'm doing can make an impact." Her work to prepare students has helped lead the school to a 93% FAFSA application rate, steady applications for employment or military service, and an ever-growing rate of students choosing to pursue post-secondary education.