Arkansas News Bureau
LITTLE ROCK — Andrea Morales McKenna, a teacher at J.O. Kelly Middle School in Springdale, received the Milken Educator Award today.
The national award is presented every year by the Milken Foundation to a select group of teachers across the United States and includes a $25,000 prize.
In the past 25 years, the foundation has given more than $60 million to about 2,500 teachers who have received the award. McKenna becomes the 68th Arkansas teacher to receive the award.
McKenna, who teaches English as a second language to sixth and seventh graders, was presented the award by Gov. Mike Beebe and state Education Commissioner Tom Kimbrell, who surprised her with the news.
McKenna has taught in Springdale since 2002. Previously, she taught in Dallas, Texas.
“Andrea is the teacher every principal is looking for,” said Sara Ford, principal of the middle school. “All of her life experiences have prepared her to be the powerful teacher and mentor she is today.”
The principal said McKenna, the daughter of migrant workers who did not speak English, participated in an English as a second language program as a child.
“She is at the top of her game, she understands our students because she’s been there,” Ford said.
Kimbrell said “talented teachers such as Ms. McKenna are a key ingredient in our efforts to keep students excited and engaged in learning so they stay in school and graduate prepared for the future.”
