When AnthonyWhittington attended a morning : assembly at Longfields Elementary School, he did not know he was the guest of honor or that it would make him $25,000 richer. Surprised and delighted in front of beaming students and teachers, Whittington happily accepted a $25,000 prize today from Milken Family Foundation President Lowell Milken and Maryland State Superintendent Nancy S. Grasmick during a surprise school assembly. Whittington, an educator for 10 years, is free to use the no-strings attached cash prize in any manner he chooses. Whittington will receive the actual monetary award at the Milken Annual Conference in Washington, D.C this April.

Anthony Whittington not only demonstrates exemplary instructional practices, his inspiring presence motivates and impacts students, colleagues, and the community," said Dr. Grasmick. "Anthony has personally made calls, sent home letters, contacted parents, and encouraged students to participate in after school learning programs to improve their reading and math skills.

Anthony Whittington is a talented, visionary, organized instructional leader,” said Yvonne Crawford, Regional Executive Director and former Longfields Elementary School Principal. “He knows instruction inside and out. He can plan it, deliver it, observe it, evaluate it, and develop strategies to improve it. Wherever he goes he will makes a positive impact in the education profession and in the lives of children,” Crawford said.

The Milken Awards program began in 1985. The program is sponsored by the Milken Family Foundation in cooperation with the Maryland State Department of Education. It is designed to celebrate and reward educators who are making great strides in improving the nation's education system. Its goals are to heighten public recognition of the teaching profession, foster professional development, and encourage talented men and women to enter the field. Recipients cannot apply for the Milken Family Foundation Award. They must be identified by their supervisors, colleagues, and co-workers.

Criteria considered include exceptional talent; distinguished achievement in developing innovative educational curricula, programs, and methods; outstanding ability to develop students’ character and self confidence; and commitment to professional development.

To date, 45 Maryland educators have been honored by the Milken Family Foundation with more than $1 million since the state began participating eleven years ago.