Harford Teacher Wins National Award

PYLESVILLE, MD — A Harford County teacher found out she won a national award Wednesday when several special guests, including the state superintendent, showed up for a surprise announcement at her school. The news broke during an assembly at North Harford Middle School that was billed as a celebration of the school's 1:1 technology program.

In a twist, the spotlight shifted to Erin Wyatt, as she was informed she won the 2019 Milken Educator Award, known to some as the "Oscars of teaching." She was the only educator in Maryland selected for the recognition this year and one of 40 nationwide. The award is something that Wyatt did not apply for or know about, since the Milken Family Foundation identifies and votes on candidates through a confidential selection process. Blue-ribbon panels appointed by state departments of education review the nominees, and the Milken Family Foundation makes the final decision.

"Erin Wyatt embodies the dedication and commitment that it takes to motivate and develop students," Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley said in a statement. "STEM education is essential to improving student outcomes and future success, and Erin delivers in this key arena of knowledge with a personal touch, institutional savvy and emotional connection to the community."

Wyatt teaches eighth grade at North Harford Middle School, where she is the chair of the science department. Her students have won first place in the science fair and performed better on science tests than other areas, according to a statement from the Milken Foundation. She also started a "Girls Club" to provide role models for young women and created a curriculum focusing on diversity that will be adopted throughout Harford County Public Schools.

"She is a living example" of equity and excellence in action, Superintendent of Maryland Schools Karen Salmon said in a statement.

She arranges for her students to meet with scientists on field trips and spearheads school spirit activities at North Harford Middle, including putting together a video at the end of the year with highlights. After her students graduate they often continue to stay in touch wither her, and Wyatt is a resource for new teachers as well who look to her as a mentor.

"It is not easy to do what teachers do every day; Erin is a shining example of all the extra qualities that we look for in an educator," Harford County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Sean Bulson said.

As a winner of the Milken Educator Award, Wyatt received $25,000 and will attend the March 2020 Milken Educator Forum in Indianapolis, Indiana. She will join a network of more than 2,700 top teachers, principals and specialists who are part of the Milken network and will be partnered with a past award winner as a mentor.

California businessman and philanthropist Lowell Milken founded the awards in 1987 to recognize outstanding educators and encourage talented young people to become teachers.

"A talented educator can change the trajectory of a student's life," Milken said in a statement. "It is no exaggeration to say that exemplary educators are doing nothing less than laying the foundation for our nation's future."