Colorado Teacher Wins 'Oscars of Teaching' Award

Shana Engel, a sixth-grade math teacher, surprised with prestigious Milken Educator Award

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Shana Engel, a sixth-grade math teacher at Mountain Vista Community School in Colorado Springs, was surprised with the prestigious Milken Educator Award, often referred to as the 'Oscars of teaching.' The award is given to early or mid-career teachers and comes with an unrestricted $25,000 prize. Engel talked to Chalkbeat about how her own experiences as a shy student and witnessing her mother's struggles with learning English shaped her approach to teaching and helping students who struggle with math.

Why it matters

The Milken Educator Award is one of the highest honors in the teaching profession, recognizing exceptional educators who are making a significant impact on their students and communities. Engel's story highlights how teachers' personal experiences can inform their teaching methods and their ability to connect with and support students, particularly those facing challenges.

The details

Engel, who is one of 30 Milken award recipients nationwide this year, was surprised during a school assembly when Colorado's education chief presented her with the award. Engel, a self-described shy student, recalled how her fourth-grade teacher helped her adjust to a new school by introducing her to new friends, an experience that inspired Engel's approach to supporting students. Engel also shared how witnessing her mother's struggles with learning English shaped her ability to relate to students who are not native English speakers or have difficulty with academic terminology.

  • On a Thursday in January, Engel and other teachers at Mountain Vista Community School gathered for a special assembly.
  • Engel was announced as the winner of the 2026 Milken Educator Award.

The players

Shana Engel

A sixth-grade math teacher at Mountain Vista Community School in Colorado Springs who was awarded the prestigious Milken Educator Award.

Mrs. Russel

Engel's fourth-grade teacher who helped her adjust to a new school by introducing her to new friends.

Engel's mother

Born in Korea, Engel's mother moved to the U.S. after marrying Engel's father, and struggled with learning English, which shaped Engel's approach to teaching students who are not native English speakers.

Colorado's education chief

The state official who presented Engel with the Milken Educator Award during the school assembly.

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What they’re saying

“I was beyond surprised when my name was called.”

— Shana Engel, Milken Educator Award winner (Chalkbeat)

“I hope you know how much she likes your class … She never used to like math. Her sister has always been better, but this year they help each other. It's because of you.”

— Parent of Engel's student (Chalkbeat)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Engel's story highlights how teachers' personal experiences can shape their approach to supporting students, particularly those facing challenges. Her ability to connect with students who struggle with math or are not native English speakers has made a significant impact on her students and community.