Oneida Teacher Receives National Recognition as a Milken Educator

Award Recognizes Exceptional Teachers Across Nation

Oneida, TN— Today, the Tennessee Department of Education announced East Tennessee 3rd grade teacher Stephanie Boshears at Oneida Elementary School in Oneida Special School District has been named a recipient of the prestigious Milken Educator Award, one of the highest honors in education that has been dubbed the “Oscars of Teaching” by Teacher Magazine.

"Early grade educators have an instrumental impact on student’s growth as they teach foundational skills that will guide students to long-term success, and third grade teacher Mrs. Boshears is a remarkable example of this,” said Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds. "Congratulations to Mrs. Boshears on representing the state of Tennessee by receiving the prestigious Milken Educator Award.” 

Stephanie Boshears serves as a leader in her community, school, and district. Through her unwavering commitment to student success, she is known to consistently set high standards and expectations for her students and pursues opportunities to enhance her own learning. She has conducted many professional development sessions at the school- and district-level, while using evidence from her classroom to foster an environment in which student work drives teacher learning and leads to high quality support for students across all learning levels. Mrs. Boshears serves as a mentor not only within her grade level but across all levels, offering valuable support and guidance that impacts the growth of other teachers and their students. Learn more about Stephanie Boshears here. 

"Oneida Special School District is honored that Stephanie Boshears has received this distinguished award,” said Jeanny Phillips, Director of Schools, Oneida Special School District. “We are thankful for her outstanding commitment to foster academic excellence and inspire students. This distinguished award celebrates Mrs. Boshears' dedication to creating an innovative and supportive learning environment. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a passion for teaching, a deep commitment to student success, and a relentless pursuit of educational advancement. Her ability to engage students, develop creative lesson plans, and foster a positive classroom culture has had a profound impact on the lives of countless learners. She is very deserving of this recognition."

Established in 1987, the Milken National Educator Awards were created to attract, reward and retain the highest caliber professionals in the education profession. The award recognizes early-to-mid career teachers and principals for both their impressive achievements and the promise of future accomplishments. Recipients are honored with $25,000 in unrestricted awards. Since Tennessee joined the Milken Educator Award program in 1992, 74 Tennessee educators have been awarded over $1.8 million. 

To learn more information about the Milken Educator Awards, click here.  

For Tennessee Department of Education media inquiries, contact Edu.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.   

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