Waialua High and Intermediate School robotics teacher Glenn Lee was awarded the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award today during a surprise assembly at the school.
Gov. Neil Abercrombie presented Lee with the award and a check for $25,000 in front of more than 500 screaming and applauding students and teachers.
Nobody at the school, not even Principal Randiann Porras-Tang knew a teacher would be receiving the Milken Award today, or that Lee was the one being honored.
"I’m just very appreciative, very grateful and just very, very shocked," Lee said. "It’s awesome. It just feels like I won the lottery."
Around the nation 40 teachers received the award this year. Lee is the 70th Hawaii educator to win the award since 1990.
Teachers cannot put themselves up for the award and the nomination process is confidential.
Recipients are recognized by their peers for exemplary instructional practices, outstanding accomplishments and long-range potential to contribute to the teaching profession.