The Milken Educator Awards selected Special Education Teacher Lisa Moody of Jefferson Elementary as one of its honorees across the nation. Milken Educator Awards Vice President Stephanie Bishop and Nebraska Deputy Commissioner of Education Deborah Frison, Ed.D., surprised her with the award and $25,000 during an assembly at the school on Friday, Jan. 20.

"Today we celebrate and honor Lisa for her excellence in instruction and dedication to her students, school and community," Bishop said. "Her innovative teaching and deep understanding and compassion for her students make a lasting impact in their lives and the lives of her colleagues."

The Milken Educator Awards celebrates outstanding K–12 teachers, principals and specialists who are furthering excellence in education. Recipients are selected in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish. The prestigious honor is often described as "the Oscars of teaching."

"Lisa exemplifies what it means to provide opportunities for all children in Nebraska," Frison said. "Her work in special education has changed lives, both of her students and all of the students in her school. She has done an outstanding job making sure every student receives the resources and sense of community they need to be successful and receive an excellent education."

As a part of this honor, Moody will attend the Milken Educator Awards Forum in April and be matched with a veteran Milken Educator who provides one-on-one mentoring in preparation for future leadership.