Essex High School (EHS) Teacher Maria Ung had no idea she would receive a national award when she came to work on Monday, October 17 – but what seemed to be an ordinary assembly, turned into an extraordinary surprise.  Recommended by the VT State Department of Education, Ung received the Milken Educator Award, part of a national program recognizing preeminent teachers.

Ung was selected based on her exemplary educational talent, accomplishments beyond the classroom, and for her engaging and inspiring presence motivating students, colleagues, and the community.

A resident of Essex Junction, Ung is a St. Michael’s graduate who currently teaches Conceptual Chemistry at EHS.  She has been an EHS science teacher since 2007, having previously taught at Milton and Rochester.  In addition, she is the EHS cheerleading coach and is multi-lingual.  Her credentials have placed her as one of Vermont’s Highly Qualified Teachers in the areas of math and science.

The Milken Educator Award, launched by Lowell Milken in 1982, is designed to celebrate exemplary K-12 educators in their early to mid-career work.  Each recipient is awarded $25,000, to spend as they choose.

Heralded as the “Oscars of teaching,” up to 40 recipients will be awarded this honor nationwide, with Ung being the sole Vermont recipient this year.

Superintendent Michael Deweese applauded Ung as Milken’s choice, “Maria exemplifies the very best of teaching, which is evident each day in her classroom.  Her passion for her content is exceeded by her love for her learners, translating to high quality instruction and learning.  We are all so very proud of her.”

More information about the Milken Educator Award can be found at http://www.mff.org/mea/.

• Click here to read the article in the Oct. 17 edition of the Burlington Free Press.