Los Angeles Teacher Receives $25,000 "Oscar of Teaching" Award

Dr. Ellen Dooley surprised with prestigious Milken Educator Award at Milken Community School

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Dr. Ellen Dooley, a social science teacher and instructional leader at Milken Community School in Bel Air, Los Angeles, was surprised with the prestigious Milken Educator Award, also known as the "Oscar of Teaching", and a $25,000 cash prize during a morning assembly at the school.

Why it matters

The Milken Educator Award is one of the most prestigious honors in the teaching profession, recognizing exceptional educators who are making a significant impact on their students and communities. Dooley's award highlights the importance of high-quality teachers in driving student success and the recognition of excellence in the field of education.

The details

Dooley teaches a range of classes to sixth through 12th graders in modern world/Jewish history, U.S. history, and art history. She was praised by Milken Educator Awards founder Lowell Milken for her "intelligence, compassion, dedication and an unwavering belief that every young person can reach their potential." Dooley revitalized the school's AP art history program by incorporating guest lectures and museum visits, inspiring many students to pursue art history in college.

  • On February 24, 2026, Dr. Ellen Dooley was surprised with the Milken Educator Award during a morning assembly at Milken Community School.

The players

Dr. Ellen Dooley

A social science teacher and instructional leader at Milken Community School in Bel Air, Los Angeles, who was awarded the prestigious Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize.

Lowell Milken

The founder of the Milken Educator Awards, who presented the award to Dr. Ellen Dooley during the assembly.

Debra Duardo

The County Superintendent of Schools, who stated that this is the first national award ever to be given to a Jewish high school.

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What they’re saying

“We know from research and personal experiences that the single most important in-school factor that determines … student learning is the quality of the teacher in the classroom. You can't apply for our award; we find you.”

— Lowell Milken, Founder, Milken Educator Awards

“When they said they were announcing this award, I literally went through a list of pretty much all of my colleagues who teach me every single day, who are phenomenal educators and I just want to express my gratitude to them, and to these kids that make me so excited to wake up every morning, even my seniors at 8 a.m.”

— Dr. Ellen Dooley

The takeaway

Dr. Ellen Dooley's Milken Educator Award highlights the vital role that exceptional teachers play in driving student success and the importance of recognizing excellence in the field of education. Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to her students have inspired many to pursue further studies in subjects like art history, demonstrating the lasting impact that great teachers can have.