Education Master’s Student, Margaret Hersey, Wins Milken Educator Award

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Margaret Hersey, a master’s student in the secondary teacher education program in the College of Education, has been recognized as a Milken Educator Award winner.

The Milken Educator Awards, hailed by “Teacher magazine” as the "Oscars of teaching," rewards early-to-mid career education professionals with an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize.

An English/language arts teacher at Springfield Honors Academy, Hersey is being recognized for her innovative and creative student-centered teaching practices. Among these are running Socratic seminar-style discussions, putting books “on trial,” and letting her students lead class discussions. In addition, Hersey created the class, “Demystification of the Arts,” where she seamlessly integrates art and literature. Further, she leads the Adventure Club on outings to museums and outdoor activities, serves as the school’s teacher leader for curriculum, and has introduced restorative justice practices through a student Reflection Team.

“Her belief in and care about students, particularly those on the margins…earnest reflective practice and commitment to social justice education is remarkable and an inspiration to those around her, including me. I am so proud of her and our many shining stars in the program,” commented Dr. Keisha L. Green, one of Hersey’s professors at the College of Education.

Hersey earned a bachelor’s in social thought and political economy in 2012 from UMass Amherst. She is pursuing a master’s in education with a focus on social justice.

Hersey is the only Milken Educator Award winner from Massachusetts this year and is among up to 40 honorees for 2019-20. Learn more about Hersey and watch a video of the surprise award announcement on the Milken Educator Awards website.