What seemed to be an ordinary Monday morning took a fantastic turn during a school assembly November 13th. Tenth grade English and Newspaper teacher, Lissa Dulick, was given the prestigious Milken Education Award, called by some the Oscars of teaching.

    During second block teachers and pupils alike gathered in anticipation of an announcement from school officials. When all were settled down, Weir High School cheerleaders performed their routine for the state competition, Hancock County Superintendent Sue Smith, State superintendent Dr. Jorea Marple, and a guest from the Milken Family Foundation, Dr. Jane Foley took the stage.

After a brief introduction, Dr. Foley took to the crowd like a marshmallow in a microwave.  Using student help, she explained that the Milken Education Award was given to the best of the best in the teaching world, and not only was this an award for teachers, there was a reward as well.  A cash reward of $25,000 to be exact, and this is to be used in any way that the teacher pleased.

    Mrs. Dulick was chosen from teachers in Weir High School to receive the reward because of her radical teaching style and hands-on attitude regarding students.  When asked how she felt when accepting the award, she replied, "I was shocked... Everyone was disappointed in my reaction. I've heard for days [regarding her cool demeanor when accepting the award], 'You should have seen your face'."