KINGSTON, R.I. – Nov. 25, 2024 — Jessica Chapman, an educator in the Feinstein College’s Multilingual Learners (MLL) Endorsement for School Leaders cohort and a social studies teacher at Norwich Free Academy, received the prestigious Milken Educator Award at a surprise assembly in her honor on Nov. 12.
Known as the Oscar of Teaching, the Milken Educator Award includes an unrestricted cash prize of $25,000.
“Chapman was recognized for her excellence in providing a safe, supportive and nurturing classroom environment to the diverse student body of Norwich Free Academy, which includes nine percent of students born outside of the U.S. and representing more than 30 different languages,” according to a press release from the Milken Family Foundation.
The press release also stated that Chapman tailors her curriculum to effectively engage both multilingual learners and seniors earning college credit. Students learn about the world and their responsibilities as global citizens through the exploration of topics including sociology, modern world history, global studies and citizenship.
Chapman said that the MLL Education for School Leaders at URI helped her “commitment to deepening my understanding of best practices for MLLs and becoming a stronger advocate for my students.”
She added, “Before joining, I felt limited in my ability to influence programmatic and policy advancements at the local and state levels. This course has given me the confidence and boldness to push for progress.”
In addition to the $25,000 cash award, Chapman will receive mentorship opportunities for expanded leadership roles that strengthen education practice and policy; free attendance at the Milken Educator Awards Forum in Los Angeles in April 2025, and the opportunity to network with fellow awardees, veteran Milken Educators, and other esteemed education leaders.
“As a Milken Educator Award recipient, I am determined to build on the impactful work of those before me to strengthen MLL education nationwide. The cohort at URI has made me a better teacher, stronger advocate, and bolder leader,” Chapman said.
URI’s MLL program is the state’s first initiative to provide professional learning to administrators in multilingual learner education.
Designed by Amy Correia, director of URI’s Master’s in TESOL/BDL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and Bilingual and Dual Language) program, and vice-chair of the state’s MLL advisory committee, the MLL Education for School Leaders program leverages participants’ expertise, knowledge and connections to advance the Rhode Island Department of Education’s vision for education for all multilingual students.
“Jess is an active change agent dedicated to advancing educational practices and systems for multilingual learners. Her unwavering commitment to learning, problem-solving, and advocacy on behalf of students and colleagues makes her induction into the Milken Educator Network both essential and timely. Jess’ expertise and compassion are invaluable as we navigate critical state and national policy changes. By consistently centering students over self in decision-making, she exemplifies the kind of leadership that drives meaningful progress in education,” said Correia.
The first Milken Educator Awards were presented by the Milken Family Foundation in 1987. Created by philanthropist and education visionary Lowell Milken, the awards provide public recognition and individual financial rewards of $25,000 to K-12 teachers, principals, and specialists from around the country who are furthering excellence in education. Recipients are heralded in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish. The Milken Family Foundation celebrates more than 40 years of elevating education in America and around the world. Learn more at MFF.org.