FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2024
The Milken Family Foundation Makes a Surprise Visit to Alaska
Fairbanks Educator Megan Eilers Awarded $25,000
JUNEAU, AK -- The Milken Family Foundation visited the James T. Hutchinson High School today to surprise Megan Eilers with the Milken Educator Award.
The Milken Educator Award was created by Lowell Milken in 1987 to celebrate early-to-mid career education professionals for their achievements, and more importantly, the promise of future successes. The award aims to inspire excellence by honoring top educators with $25,000 and national recognition.
Eilers is a high school teacher and registered nurse who provides a valuable environment for students in the health science pathway at Hutchinson High School. Her collaboration with Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and other community health organizations has increased the success of students in health and medical occupations. Enrollment in her classes increases each year due to her passion, empathy, and extensive knowledge. Eilers brings 'real world' experiences, hands-on lessons, and topnotch industry standards to her classroom.
Eiler's work has bridged traditional high school curricula with secondary education and career readiness. As a member of the Hutch Leadership team, she helped to create a system of "Workplace Readiness" scores that allows students to demonstrate their career-ready soft skills. Eilers is a Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) advisor and a member of the district Health Science Advisory Committee.
"Megan Eilers has provided a unique learning environment and immersive opportunities for her students," said Governor Mike Dunleavy. "Her dedication not only to her students, but also to the future of healthcare occupations, is a testament to her skills and passion. I can't think of a better recipient for this prestigious award."
"The collaboration, compassion, and consistency that Megan possesses every day is truly commendable. Her focus on teaching workplace-ready skills directly impacts her students and the entire community. The Milken Award, one of the highest honors in education, is well-deserved for such an incredible educator, and it will continue to elevate her positive influence throughout Alaska," said Alaska Department of Education and Early Development Commissioner, Dr. Deena Bishop.
More information about the Megan Eilers and the Milken Educator Award, please visit: https://www.milkeneducatorawards.org/educators/view/megan-eilers
Watch the moment Megan Eilers receives the Milken Educator Award
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The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development provides information, resources, and leadership to support over 130,000 students in 505 public schools across the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to ensure an “Excellent Education for Every Student Every Day.”
Media Contact: Caroline Hamp, Public Information Officer, (907) 465-6694
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