Aurora Biology Teacher Wins National Education Award

AURORA, CO -- It was a Halloween surprise for Grandview High School science teacher Lisa Rodgers, when she was awarded the $25,000 national education Milken Award in a pop-up ceremony at the school. Rodgers was honored for her innovative "flipped classroom" teaching methods, and for increasing the student level of Advanced Placement participation in biology.

“Lisa Rodgers is an outstanding teacher who ignites a love of learning and a passion for science in her students," said Cherry Creek Schools Supt. Harry Bull, in a press release from the Colorado Dept. of Education. "She embodies the values of creativity and innovation in designing lessons and uses technology to enrich student learning. I congratulate Lisa Rodgers on this tremendous honor and thank her for her commitment to her students."

Rodgers was honored for creating an "engaging, blended learning classroom for her high school students," and pre-recording lectures and creates pre-lab videos in an educational process known as the "flipped classroom." Students watch lectures at home, and spend class time working on mastery of concepts.

Rodgers teaches both ninth grade physical science and AP biology, according to a press release. The district credited her for building the AP biology program over three years and for 100 percent of students sitting for the year-end AP exam and 95 percent of students receive an average score of 3 or better (with 5 being the highest).

“Lisa Rodgers is an advocate for student learning and an educational leader at both school and district levels, always reflecting and revising her instructional methodologies to reach every student,” said Milken Family Foundation Chairman and Co-Founder Lowell Milken, who was present at the awards ceremony. “By teaching STEM subjects so effectively, I am optimistic about the future scientists, doctors and other vital pathways her students will pursue.”

Rodgers is the only Milken Educator Award winner from Colorado this year and is among up to 45 honorees around the country who will receive the national recognition during the 2017-18 school year.

Rodgers earned a bachelor’s of science in biology in 2002 and a master’s in teaching in 2003 from the University of Puget Sound, as well as a master’s of science in zoology from Colorado State University in 2005.

Congratulations @Grandview_HS teacher Lisa Rodgers on your @Milken award! #DedicatedtoExcellence pic.twitter.com/qXuegPS5PX