In a nod to the exceptional dedication of the nation's finest educators, East Tennessee's own Abbey Kidwell has been honored with the Milken Educator Award, a distinction that Teacher Magazine has likened to the Academy Awards of the teaching profession. Kidwell, an assistant principal at Clinton Elementary School, stands out not just within the halls of her institution but now also across the country, as a beacon of educational excellence.
The Tennessee Department of Education broke the news, celebrating Kidwell's approach to education, which is rooted in a hands-on method to foster student and teacher growth; her innovative strategies tailor coaching efforts to meet the unique needs of each individual as she takes her insights and expertise from one classroom to the next and in her effort in revolutionizing new teacher support, Kidwell has redefined mentoring in her district. Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds praised Kidwell, saying, "Congratulations to Ms. Kidwell on representing the state of Tennessee by receiving the prestigious Milken Educator Award," and emphasized the importance of Kidwell's service and leadership, as reported by the Tennessee Department of Education.
Clinton City Schools, represented by Director of Schools Kelly Johnson, expressed pride in Kidwell's achievement; Johnson identified Kidwell as pivotal in steering Clinton Elementary School towards a trajectory of continuous improvement, she heralded Kidwell's leadership in crafting a culture of excellence backed by strong support and noted her dedication as an advocate for students and staff which Kelly Johnson elaborated, "She is an advocate for every student and staff member seeking diligently to deepen her knowledge of best practice strategies, rigorous instruction, accountability, and student ownership," as highlighted by the Tennessee Department of Education announcement.
Since its establishment in 1987, the Milken National Educator Awards have sought to recognize and inspire the best in the teaching profession—awarding over $70 million nationwide to date, the Milken Family Foundation aims to celebrate and attract high-caliber professionals to education, honorees like Kidwell receive a significant $25,000 unrestricted prize attached to their recognition, highlighting not just their past achievements but also their potential for future impact on education and learning. Tennessee's addition to this elite roster of educators began in 1992 and has since honored 73 of its educators with over $1.8 million in unrestricted funds, the full announcement with further details about Kidwell's educational philosophy and her contributions to Clinton City Schools can be found at the Tennessee Department of Education's official website.
