Medford Teacher Receives $25K for Top Educator Award

A John J. McGlynn Elementary School teacher was selected as the 2014 to 2015 Milken Educator for Massachusetts.

Students screamed and cheered for fifth grade teacher Anthony Petrelis when he was surprised with the award and $25,000 in a school assembly on Wednesday.

Milken Educator Awards honors top educators for their achievements in furthering excellence in education. These awards are considered the “Oscars of teaching” according to Teacher magazine.

Petrelis is described as a gifted teacher who engages his students through project-based learning and various strategies, WCVB reported.

As an educator, Petrelis dedicates himself to the community by coordinating a Thanksgiving food drive and leads students as a basketball coach, a skating club lead and a director of the Summer Fun Program that attracts 140 students a week.

He also assists the school as a member of the School Council, Teacher Assistance Team and instructor for the MCAS Prep After-School Program, according to the Milken Educator Awards.

Petrelis is studying education administration to one day become a school principal.

Governor Deval Patrick said this award reflects Petrelis’ dedication to the students of Medford, WCVB reported.

Photo Credit: Milken Family Foundation