BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Teacher Shane Baker had quite a day at school. The Jennings Creek Elementary teacher won the Milken Educator Award, an award known as the “Oscar’s of Teaching.”

What You Need To Know

  • Shane Baker is a third grade teacher, and has been teaching for six years

  • Baker was awarded this title because of his way of ensuring all students pass, his innovative approach to technology in the classroom, and being a visible leader inside and outside the classroom

  • People who were with the Milken Family Foundation traveled all the from Santa Monica for the ceremony

  • Along with the award, Baker was given $25,000, and can spend it in whichever way he desires

Students and teachers piled into the Jennings Creek Elementary gym waiting to hear if their teacher would be named a winner.

Baker, a third-grade teacher, knew he was a nominee for the award, but he and others at the school did not know he would be named the winner.

When Baker’s name was called, it was more than a surprise.

“It was pure and utter shock at first, very out of body experience, didn’t expect that. There are a lot of great educators here, and I guess now I’m lucky enough to consider myself one and have some national recognition in that too,” Baker said.

Students went wild, with many of his students hugging him while he was walking to get the award, and many hugging him afterward.

Baker’s wife did not know about the award. She wasn’t at the school for the ceremony, but he eagerly called her after everyone had left to tell her the big news.

He said she immediately started to sob. She questioned him and Baker said his wife told him, “I’m so proud of you. You are so incredible.” 

The award stands as a recognition for a teacher who goes above and beyond. This is only Baker’s sixth year of teaching and he was given the award because of his innovative approach to technology in the classroom. 

Baker gave an example of how he gets through to his students. He said, “I’ve had kids write things and we present them in front of green screens.”

Baker makes sure all of his students succeed and makes sure he’s a visible leader both inside and outside the classroom.

Baker said, “It’s a wonderful feeling to see students come from different backgrounds or just to see kids who look like me, because I didn’t get that experience growing up so I’m glad I get to give that experience to some of my students.”

According to the award's website, Lowell Milken created the Milken Educator Awards to give outstanding teachers the recognition they deserve for their important work — ensuring a bright future for every student.

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