This Elementary School Teacher From Mercer Co. Wins National $25K Award

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — What looked like an ordinary school assembly turned into a big surprise for one teacher in Mercer County.

Katherine Delvaux, a first-grade English as a second language teacher at Carroll Robbins Elementary School in Trenton, received a Milken Educator Award on Thursday. The national honor comes with an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize.

Jane Foley, senior vice president of the Milken Educator Awards, and New Jersey Education Commissioner Lily Laux presented the award in the school gym as students cheered.

Delvaux is the only New Jersey teacher to receive the award for 2026-27, and the state’s 40th recipient since 2002.

“Katherine Delvaux is an extraordinary educator,” Foley said. “Her commitment to helping every student grow, innovative approach to classroom technology and dedication to creating a welcoming, supportive school community make a positive impact on students and colleagues alike.”

Delvaux works with multilingual learners on the first-grade team, partnering with the school’s Spanish and English dual-language teachers to build students’ skills and confidence in English. She teaches in small groups and has students track their own progress. Her students write their own “I Spy” vocabulary books and send digital postcards to students in London and Norway.

“Through her commitment to multilingual learners, she creates engaging and meaningful learning experiences that help her students develop the skills, confidence, and sense of belonging they need to succeed,” Laux said.

Delvaux is also a member of the Apple Vanguard Team, leads technology training for fellow teachers and serves on several school teams focused on student support and school culture.

Outside the classroom, she serves on several school teams. She works with third-grade student ambassadors on morning announcements, helps identify students who need extra support and stays in close contact with their families. She also helped create the school mural and leads Student of the Month recognitions and attendance celebrations.

Delvaux earned a bachelor’s degree in theater performance from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2009 and a master’s degree in elementary education from Boston University in 2014.

The Milken award honors early- to mid-career educators for what they’ve achieved and what they’re expected to accomplish. Delvaux will also attend an all-expenses-paid Milken Educator Awards Forum in Washington, D.C., in June 2027.

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