John Hersey High School's Bradley Abel Surprised with $25,000 National Milken Educator Award
November 9, 2011
A seemingly routine school-wide assembly turned into the surprise of a lifetime when the Milken Family Foundation honored—and stunned—Bradley Abel, a social science teacher at John Hersey High School, with a Milken Educator Award. Presented by Milken Family Foundation Co-Founder Mike Milken, Congressman Robert Dold, Illinois State Board of Education Member James W. Baumann and Superintendent David R. Schuler, the Award comes with a no-strings-attached cash prize of $25,000. "Nothing assures the success of a nation more than education; and nothing assures the quality of education more than dedicated classroom teachers instilling a love of learning and sense of wonder in their students," said Mike Milken on the power of an outstanding educator.
The Awards program was created to recognize the importance of outstanding educators and encourage talented young people to enter the teaching profession. This year also marks the Milken Family Foundation’s 25th anniversary recognizing and rewarding America’s top teachers with what Teacher Magazine deemed "the Oscars of Teaching."
"Whether it is in the classroom, on the soccer field, or in the community, Bradley Abel goes above and beyond to realize significant growth for all students," said Milken Family Foundation Chairman and Co-founder Lowell Milken. "His inspiring and engaging leadership serves as a model for communities, policymakers, and students who may be motivated to enter the profession as well as for all of our nation’s K-12 educators."
"What a phenomenal honor for one of our real rock star teachers in District 214," said Superintendent David R. Schuler. "Brad is one of many exceptional teachers in our District and I believe this recognition says a lot about the professionalism and the quality of our staff. Today is a great day for Brad, John Hersey High School, Township High School District 214, and public education across this country. Thanks to the Milken Family Foundation for supporting and honoring outstanding classroom teachers for 25 years. Congratulations again to Brad on a very well-deserved recognition."
Abel is the third District 214 educator to receive a National Milken Educator Award. Retired Rolling Meadows High School social studies teacher Art Peekel received the award in 1991, and Hersey's Social Science Division Head Paul Kelly won the award in 2005 while a teacher at Hinsdale South High School. As a new recipient, Abel is invited to join the Milken Educator Network, a group of distinguished educators whose expertise serves as a valuable resource to fellow educators, legislators, school boards and others shaping the future of education.
For more information about the Milken Educator Awards, visit http://www.mff.org or call the Foundation at (310) 570-4775.
You are leaving the District 214 server