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Sheila Hall, a third-grade teacher in Browning, has earned $25,000 after being named as the only 2010 Montana recipient of a Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award.

Hall, a Browning native, has worked at the school for eight years and is one of only 55 educators who will be recognized across the country this year by the Milken organization.

After receiving the news during a surprise assembly at the school on Friday, Hall said, “I was floored. I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would receive such a prestigious award for something that I love to do and do every day. I want all of my students to be successful and have the same opportunities I had.”

Friday's announcement marks the 50th in Montana since the Treasure State joined the Milken Educator Awards program in 1993. A little more than $1.2 million has been awarded in Montana since then. Hall is the third educator from Browning to be honored. Previous recipients are Carol Juneau and Leo Bird, Jr.

Denise Juneau, the MT Superintendent of Public Instruction, was on hand for the event, and she noted, "Sheila is very deserving of this great award that represents the very hard work that teachers do every day. She cares a great deal about her students and is committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure their success.”

Educators may use their $25,000 in any way they wish and will participate in the Milken Educator Forum in Los Angeles, California the spring after their notification.

The Milken Family Foundation has honored more than 2,500 educators and awarded more than $62 million since 1987. Criteria for selection includes exceptional educational talent, exemplary educational accomplishments beyond the classroom, unheralded contributions to education, potential for professional and policy leadership, and an engaging and inspiring presence that motivates and impacts students, colleagues and the community.

Students in Hall’s classroom had a few suggestions on how their teacher could spend the money. Their ideas included buying a new car, taking a trip to New York, taking a vacation with her husband and three children, or buying groceries.

“That’s a lot of groceries,” Hall said with a smile.

Pictured above: OPI chief Denise Juneau, Browning Elementary principal Wilma Mad Plume, Sheila Hall, father John Gobert, mother Patty Gobert (click for larger view).

Click here to learn more about the Milken Family Foundation.

Great Falls teacher Kathie Heusel was honored by the foundation in 2008.
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