By Blake Jackson
Jacob Ball, an agriculture teacher at Carter G. Woodson Academy in Fayette County, Kentucky, was honored with the prestigious Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award. The award was presented to Ball, who teaches grades 6-12, during a surprise ceremony at his school, attended by students, faculty, and local leaders. This "Oscars of Teaching" award includes an unrestricted cash prize of $25,000. Ball, who grew up on a family farm, was celebrated for his commitment to his students and his role as an advocate within the school community. The Milken Family Foundation's goal is to recognize exceptional educators and inspire others in the teaching profession to achieve excellence. Ball's award comes as part of the Milken Educator Awards program, which is presenting up to 75 awards across the United States this school year.
Jacob Ball's teaching approach emphasizes hands-on activities, daily reflection, and deep inquiry, and he partners with various organizations and businesses to demonstrate to his students that successful careers in agriculture are attainable. He not only teaches at Carter G. Woodson Academy but also advises the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and Junior Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS). Under his guidance, his students have engaged in 140 different agriculture projects across the state, accumulating 3,000 hours of real-world experience, including a trip to Ireland for a summer tour.
The Milken Educator Awards have been recognizing teaching excellence since 1987, aiming to encourage educators, students, and communities to celebrate and elevate the teaching profession. Candidates for the awards are selected through a confidential process and reviewed by blue-ribbon panels appointed by state education departments. As part of the award, Jacob Ball will have the opportunity to attend the Milken Educator Forum, where he will network with other educators and engage with state and federal leaders to shape the future of education.
This recognition of Jacob Ball highlights his dedication to agricultural education, demonstrating the importance of educators in the field and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
Photo Credit: Milken Award
Categories: Kentucky, Education