Milken Award

"Research, as well as personal experience, confirms that teachers are by far the most important school-related factor affecting student achievement."

- Lowell Milken, Founder of the Milken National Educator Awards

"Students here say Mr. Briasco-Brin makes them feel important, because no matter how long it takes, he makes sure they understand what they're learning."

- Susan Kimble, Channel 6 News

"He's really good, he makes learning fun. It's not like your boring old math teacher. It's actually fun."

- Student Brie Roy

"I love putting smiles on kids' faces, whether it's just by saying hi or [when they] all of a sudden understand something in the math class."

- Mr. Briasco-Brin

"A good teacher can change a child's life. Alex Briasco-Brin and Melissa Noack are living proof of that."

- Susan Kimble, Channel 6 News

"Only 100 educators in the United States are recognized by the Milken Foundation each year, so congratulations to them."

"You gotta love a teacher who wears a t-shirt that says pumpkin pi on it, a math teacher."

The award came with a rather nice surprise.

The following year, my wife, dog and I went to Washington D.C. for the Milken National Conference and awards banquet and ceremony.

It was a week long conference where people from education, business and government held discussions about teaching and learning.

The above picture was taken at a reception where we were able to meet with senators and representatives. Left: Lowell Milken (founder of the national educator awards and the person who ultimately decides the winners), center: Melissa Noack (there are two winners from each state), right: Mr. Briasco-Brin

A formal gala and awards ceremony is put on during the final night of the conference.

Happily, my wife was able to attend the gala.

I know it's tradition in some sporting events to celebrate something big at Disney World. When you're in Washington D.C. though, you go to the all vegan bakery, Sticky Fingers.