Marcus Ross, (Elementary Education, ’19) received the Milken Educator Award at Lakes Middle School in Coeur d’Alene, where he teaches eighth grade math.
The award recognizes excellent teachers from across the nation and includes a $25,000 cash prize from the Milken Family Foundation. Award recipients are surprised at school-wide assemblies, which include district and state officials.
Ross credits his time in Boise State’s teacher education program with giving him the tools and confidence to walk into a classroom and make a difference, including his time as a student teacher in mentor Eve Pecka’s classroom at Trailwind Elementary in Boise.
“The program’s hands-on approach, combined with the incredible support system of professors and peers helped me develop a teaching style that’s about building relationships and helping students thrive as individuals,” Ross said.
“Every day (teaching) is a new opportunity to laugh, explore and make a difference in someone’s life, and that is such a gift.”
Ross hopes to use some of the prize money for his classroom and to start his own foundation recognizing district students who make an impact in the community through acts of kindness.