Allie Galas on Tuesday became the seventh Grand Canyon University alumnus in four years to win the Milken Educator Award in a surprise ceremony at Jessie Beck Elementary School in Reno, Nevada.
Galas earned her master’s in educational administration at GCU in 2016. The prestigious national award comes with a prize of $25,000 and is hailed as the “Oscars of Teaching.”
She teaches fourth grade and was cited for her impact on students by using restorative problem-solving, hands-on projects and emphasizing collaboration among students, who she empowers to lead classroom discussions and lessons.
The Milken Family Foundation has given more than $75 million in prizes to educators in early to mid-career who further excellence in education. Nearly 50 each year join the Milken list, including GCU alumnus Luke Kanine of Frankenmuth, Michigan, who earned the award in January.
“We commend Allie Galas for creating a nurturing environment for students to excel, said Dr. Jane Foley, Milken Educator Awards senior vice president, who presented the award. “Outside of the classroom, Allie is a valued mentor who strengthens all elements – from pedagogy and family involvement to social-emotional learning – that ensure every student has access to a high-quality education.”
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Other GCU Milken Award winners:
To GCU alumnus, national award is from putting kids first
GCU alums capture top national educator award for third straight year
COE alums add to long list of educator awards
