Alaskan teacher Emily Snyder recognized nationally with Milken Educator Award

In a surprise award ceremony on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Nenana, Alaskan teacher Emily Snyder was recognized with the Milken Educator Award and a check for $25,000, it was announced in a press release. Snyder is now part of a community of over 3,000 Milken Award recipients over the program’s nearly 40-year history.

“The Milken Educator Awards inspire educators, students and entire communities to “Celebrate, Elevate and Activate” the K-12 teaching profession and encourage young, capable people to pursue teaching as a career. More than $75 million in individual financial prizes and more than $145 million have been invested in the Milken Educator Award national network overall.” (Milken Family Foundation)

Snyder is a first and second grade teacher at Nenana City School, where she exemplifies her calling through an unceasing commitment to her student’s learning. Practicing data driven instruction and creating lesson plans aimed at capturing the excitement of learning in her students, Emily leads the way with the Alaska Reads Act’s mission of every student proficiently reading by the third grade.

In addition to her commitment to her students, she has become an integral part of her community, serving on her school’s Instructional Education Team and coordinating a Literacy Café for students and parents.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education, and her Master of Education in Literacy.

“Everything Emily Snyder does in her classroom helps students reach their fullest potential,” said Dr. Joshua Barnett, CEO of the National Institute of Excellence in Teaching. “At a young age, students are taking charge of their learning, developing problem-solving skills, and shaping their place in today’s world. Outside of the classroom, Emily demonstrates outstanding leadership in her school and the Nenana community. We look forward to her contributions to the Milken Educator Network, where she will have the opportunity to elevate her impact and broaden her sphere of excellence. Congratulations!”

“Emily Snyder and teachers like her are examples of what we as educators strive to be,” said Commissioner Deena Bishop. “I applaud her commitment to reading education through proven methods of instruction and dedication that extends far beyond school hours. Congratulations on earning this prestigious Milken award, and thank you for your meaningful impact on Alaska's kids!”