Jefferson City News

Meghan Menchella, a social studies teacher at Crestview Middle School in the Rockwood School District, has been awarded the Milken Educator Award. This national recognition comes with a $25,000 unrestricted cash prize and acknowledges her excellence in teaching and leadership.

The Milken Educator Awards have been honoring top educators for over 35 years. The initiative is often referred to as the "Oscars of Teaching" and aims to reward K-12 educators for their teaching quality, professional leadership, community engagement, and potential for further contributions to children's development.

Stephanie Bishop, Vice President of the Milken Educator Awards and a 2001 Virginia Milken Educator, praised Menchella's abilities: “Meghan Menchella shines as a leader, educator and storyteller. History is full of stories; it takes the right educator to not only share those stories with young learners but also instill a sense of impact. Menchella’s engaging instruction encourages students to truly delve into history as it stands today.”

Missouri's Commissioner of Education Dr. Margie Vandeven expressed her admiration: “We are thrilled to have the Milken Family Foundation recognize one of Missouri’s exceptional teachers with this award. The hard work that Meghan does every day to help educate the whole student in her classroom is truly inspiring to see.”

Menchella focuses on both academic success and emotional health for her students. She maintains regular communication with families about academic goals and uses current events to make history relevant. Her classroom emphasizes inquiry and critical thinking.

In addition to her teaching duties, Menchella leads student teams like the Student Leadership Action Team and Student Lighthouse Team. She participates in district committees and mentors new teachers.

Menchella holds a bachelor's degree from Lindenwood University (2016) in middle school education with an emphasis on social studies, and a master's degree from Southwest Baptist University (2018).

Milken Educators are chosen based on achievements and potential contributions. Besides the cash prize, recipients join the National Milken Educator Network which offers professional development opportunities throughout their careers.

The 2023-24 awards will honor up to 75 recipients nationwide as part of the Milken Family Foundation's journey toward its 3,000th recipient milestone since its inception in 1987.

For more information about Meghan Menchella or details on the award program visit www.MilkenEducatorAwards.org.