Chesapeake, Va. - Hugo A. Owens Middle School Principal Amber Dortch received the $25,000 Milken Educator Award on Friday.
The award is given to recipients based on criteria related to instructional practice, leadership, student achievement and accomplishments outside of the classroom.
“She is a leader and a doer, working together with faculty and students to help the whole school thrive,” said Milken Family Foundation Senior Vice President Jane Foley.
School officials say Dortch has maintained Hugo A. Owens Middle School's fully accredited rating since she became principal in 2013.
Dortch is the 41st educator from Virginia to receive the Milken Educator Award since 1999. Milken Family Foundation has given more than $66 million in awards to over 2,600 educators across the county.
“Amber Dortch epitomizes the 21st-century instructional leader who inspires her teachers and equips them with the tools, strategies and data they need to improve outcomes for students,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Steven R. Staples said. “She is a constant presence — in the halls and in the classrooms — always encouraging students to believe in themselves and to make every moment count.”
Dortch began her career with Chesapeake Public Schools as a Spanish teacher in 2000.
