2 Minn. teachers win $25,000 award

by Matt Sepic, Minnesota Public Radio

St. Paul, Minn. — Two Minnesota teachers are getting national recognition for their work.

Carolyn Ruhnow of Rice Lake Elementary in Lino Lakes and Jennifer Mitchell of Sojourner Truth Academy in Minneapolis received the Milken Educator Award Tuesday.

Each received a $25,000 check to spend however they want.

Mitchell said the award -- presented to her at a school assembly -- came as a total surprise.

"I have no idea what I'm going to do with the money. $25,000? Are you kidding me? I have no idea," she said. "Big things, maybe go back to school."

The Milken Foundation recognized Mitchell for her leadership in helping to boost student achievement, and Ruhnow for a creative classroom style that includes bringing dogs to school.

Mitchell and Ruhnow are among 55 recipients across the country.