Katelyn Baker, a Hamilton County elementary school teacher, was awarded $25,000 provided by the Milken Family Foundation in a surprise ceremony at Battle Academy.
The award was presented by Education Commissioner Candice McQueen and Senior Vice President of the Milken Educator Awards, Dr. Jane Foley. Foley, a former recipient of the Milken Award, served as a representative for the Milken Family Foundation at the surprise ceremony in Chattanooga.
“Early grade educators provide our students a strong foundation from which they can grow into lifelong learners, and Katelyn Baker is working every day to help her students get there,” Commissioner Candice McQueen said. “She is an exceptional educator who has gone above and beyond to support and encourage each student in her classroom, and I am proud to recognize her with this award.”
Baker is known for her ability to provide students options from which they can choose their learning activities and offers multiple assessment options to measure a student’s understanding. Under her guidance and careful management, students work independently, stay organized and engaged, and self-assess their learning continuously. As a result, Baker’s students at all learning levels show consistently high growth.
In Tennessee, 64 educators have been recognized since the program began in the state in 1992. Over the past 24 years that Tennessee has been a part of the program, more than $1.6 million has been awarded to Tennessee educators.
Education Professional 