East Tennessee third-grade teacher wins “Oscar of Teaching”
Stephanie Boshears (center) standing with Tennessee State Board of Education Member Dr. Ina Maxwel and Tennessee State Board of Education Chair Bob Eby (Photo by Milken Family Foundation)
East Tennessee third-grade teacher Stephanie Boshears received a welcome surprise Thursday morning during a school assembly at Oneida Elementary School.
National Institute for Excellence in Teaching Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joshua Barnett surprised Boshears by announcing her as a recipient of the prestigious Milken Educator Award. It’s one of the highest honors in education and has been referred to as the “Oscars of Teaching” by Teacher Magazine according to a news release sent to the Tennessee Firefly.
Stephanie Boshears reacts to winning the Milken Educator Award (Photo by Milken Family Foundation)
"Early grade educators have an instrumental impact on student’s growth as they teach foundational skills that will guide students to long-term success, and third grade teacher Mrs. Boshears is a remarkable example of this,” said Department of Education Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds who was also in attendance at the Oneida school assembly. "Congratulations to Mrs. Boshears on representing the state of Tennessee by receiving the prestigious Milken Educator Award.”
The Department of Education said Boshears won the award through her work serving as a leader in her community, school, and district, consistently setting high standards and expectations for her students. According to the news release, Boshears has conducted professional development sessions at the school- and district-level, and serves as a mentor support and guidance to other teachers and their students.
"Oneida Special School District is honored that Stephanie Boshears has received this distinguished award,” said Oneida Special School District Director of Schools Jeanny Phillips. “We are thankful for her outstanding commitment to foster academic excellence and inspire students. This distinguished award celebrates Mrs. Boshears' dedication to creating an innovative and supportive learning environment. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for teaching, a deep commitment to student success, and a relentless pursuit of educational advancement. Her ability to engage students, develop creative lesson plans, and foster a positive classroom culture has had a profound impact on the lives of countless learners. She is very deserving of this recognition."
Stephanie Boshears (center) celebrating with her students (Photo by Milken Family Foundation)
The Milken National Educator Awards were created in 1987 to attract, reward and retain the highest caliber professionals in the education profession. The award recognizes early-to-mid career teachers and principals for both their achievements and the promise of future accomplishments.
Recipients receive a $25,000 award. Since Tennessee joined the Milken Educator Award program in 1992, 74 Tennessee educators have been awarded more than $1.8 million.
