Medford Fifth Grade Teacher Surprised With $25K Award
MEDFORD (CBS) – Students erupted into a standing ovation Wednesday at McGlynn Elementary School in Medford when fifth grade teacher Anthony Petrelis' name was called to receive the Milken Educator Award this year.
Dr. Jane Foley of the Milken Foundation presented the award to Petrelis, whose students call him Mr. P.
Petrelis is the only teacher to be recognized in Massachusetts for this national award that does not accept nominations or applications.
"You don't find us, we find you!" Foley said.
Mr. P is described a role model to students, a gifted teacher, and is known for his educational raps; all for which he received a $25,000 check.
The Milken Educator Award is called the Oscars of teaching, but for Petrelis, it's like winning the Super Bowl.
"The best part is working with the kids; I love what I do a lot," Petrelis said, "There are so many good teachers here, it could've been anybody. I'm really lucky."
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