Clinton math teacher surprised with $25,000 award | News

CLINTON, MS (WLBT) - One sixth grade math teacher in Clinton had no idea she would be awarded $25,000 at work Wednesday morning.

Michelle Brister, an 11-year educator, was chosen by a Mississippi Department of Education-appointed committee to receive the Milken Family Foundation Award. She was presented the award at a surprise event at Lovett Elementary School.

Watch a video of Brister's reaction at the surprise notification event Wednesday at Lovett Elementary School

Brister “uses creative strategies to engage students and teach mathematical concepts. After her first year at Lovett Elementary School, students in her classes scored 87 percent proficient or advanced on the MCT,” according to the Mississippi Department of Education.

The Milken Family Foundation Award was first presented in 1987. It is designed to “provide public recognition and a financial reward to teachers, principals and other educators who have a proven record of excellence in education,” according to a Mississippi Department of Education news release.

The confidential selection process does not include the submission of nominations or applications. The committee identified candidates for review and selection.

“You don’t find us, we find you,” said Dr. Jane Foley with the Milken Family Foundation Wednesday at the presentation.

According to the MDE:

"Mississippi has participated in the program since 1991, with a total of 66 state educators receiving more than $1.6 million from the Milken Family Foundation, a private-non-profit organization. Nationwide, Milken Family Foundation has given away more than $60 million as part of the awards program."