Milken Family Foundation

WATCH: The second stop in our 2024-25 #MilkenAward tour continued to Mastic Beach, New York, adding an incredible educator to the Milken family: teacher John Melandro! We surprised the outstanding educator with the Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize in front of students, colleagues, veteran Milken Educators, and visiting dignitaries. Take a look at how the surprise of a lifetime unfolded. See the full video: https://lnkd.in/gErSR-4Y #MEA3K #GoodNews #educateNY

COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO—Congratulations to the newest recipient of the $25K #MilkenAward, outstanding educator Marcus Ross! Marcus is an eighth-grade math teacher and former student at Lakes Middle School who blends creativity and connection to inspire his students. From using mystery games to teach statistics to implementing a unique classroom management system, his innovative approach keeps students engaged and motivated.?A leader in his district, Marcus also mentors fellow educators and supports his community through coaching and family engagement. His impact extends beyond math—he ensures every student knows they are loved and valued. Learn more about Marcus Ross: https://lnkd.in/gZDip5rB Idaho Department of Education #MEA3K #goodnews #educateID #idahoteachers?

Rhode Island kicked off the 2024-25 Milken Educator Award season by adding an incredible educator to the Milken family: kindergarten teacher Maria Santonastaso! We surprised the outstanding educator with the Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize in front of students, colleagues, veteran Milken Educators, and visiting dignitaries. Take a look at how the top-secret surprise was revealed. See the full video here: https://lnkd.in/dAhneibR #MEA3K #MilkenAward #educateRI #RIteachers #GoodNews

Congratulations to Emily Litz of Malcolm E. Nettingham Middle School on receiving the 2024 Milken Family Foundation Award. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/ewmuNqb4 #MEA3K #MilkenAward #TeachInspireNewJersey

SCOTCH PLAINS, NEW JERSEY—Congratulations to fifth grade teacher EMILY LITZ, the newest recipient of the 2024-25 #MilkenAward ! Emily empowers her students through hands-on, inquiry-based learning at Malcolm E. Nettingham Middle School. From transforming her classroom into a “wilderness” for storytelling to fostering a love for math, Emily brings creativity and critical thinking to everything she does. She’s also a leader in professional development, mentoring fellow educators and driving innovative programs. Learn more about Emily: https://lnkd.in/gqTC3hte New Jersey Department of Education #MEA3K #NJeducation #NJteachers #TeachInspireNewJersey

NORWICH, CT—Congratulations to the newest recipient of the 2024-25 Connecticut $25K #MilkenAward, ninth through 12th grade teacher Jessica Chapman! Jessica creates an inclusive and inspiring social studies classroom for all of her students to thrive at Norwich Free Academy. Her tailored curriculum engages everyone, from multilingual learners to college-credit seniors, sparking curiosity and a sense of global responsibility. Jessica’s impact extends beyond the classroom as a mentor, senior class advisor, and varsity girls golf coach. Thank you, Jessica, for your commitment to empowering the next generation! Learn more about Jessica here: https://lnkd.in/g566qbUt Norwich Free Academy #MEA3K #goodnews #teachersoflinkedin #CTeducation #CTteachers

We're still celebrating John Melandro and thrilled to welcome him to the Milken Educator Network! Watch more on what his #MilkenAward means to him in this PIX11 interview today: https://lnkd.in/gPW4m_M2 #MEA3K

Want more good news in your life?! Follow, like, and share as we continue our #MilkenAward tour across the country. We kicked off this week in Rhode Island and Long Island honoring outstanding educators with a $25K cash prize! This is just the beginning! Who will be next? #MEA3K #goodnews #teachers #teachingawards

MASTIC BEACH, NY—Congratulations to the newest recipient of the $25K #MilkenAward, outstanding educator John Melandro! Known as the “Magic Man,” the inspiring third and fifth grade teacher at Tangier Smith Elementary School transforms daily lessons into exciting adventures. Melandro focuses on critical thinking and culturally responsive teaching, empowering his students to take charge of their learning while ensuring they feel valued and seen. His innovative approach and commitment to professional growth make his classroom a shining example for educators across the district! Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/g24Atzag New York State Education Department #MilkenAward #MEA3K