MPS teacher wins prestigious Milken Educator Award

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee Public Schools teacher Sarah Berndt was honored on Wednesday, October 2nd with the Milken Educator Award; dubbed the "Oscar of Teaching" by Teacher Magazine.

"One of the best teachers in the entire country out of 3 million teachers is here," said Jane Foley of the Milken Foundation. "This Milken Educator Award goes to Sarah Berndt!"

Berndt was surprised with the award at an all-school assembly. The $25,000 award recognizes the exceptional work of educators who can be models for their state and the country.

"I can't imagine spending my days doing anything but being with these students," said Berndt.

Berndt has been a teacher for ten years. She has spent the last four at Reagan.

"Every single person in this building could be recognized by the foundation. I'm very humbled by this," said Berndt.

Berndt teaches Spanish and technology at MPS’ Ronald Reagan College Preparatory High School, an International Baccalaureate high school on the city’s south side.

Berndt says she will use the $25,000 to pay off student loans.

Up to 40 teachers in the nation will be named "Milken Educators" in 2013.