During a surprise presentation at The Leffell School in Hartsdale, social studies teacher and history department chair Harry Shontz received New York’s 2025-26 Milken Educator Award in front of a crowd of students, faculty and community members on April 17, 2026.
Award founder Lowell Milken presented Shontz with the national honor, which comes with a $25,000 prize.
“Harry Shontz is a remarkable educator by enveloping students in the rich tapestry of history to bridge the past, present and future,” Milken said in a news release. “In so doing, Harry sparks critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and the passion to become productive citizens of our global society.”
Read more school news: New Rochelle High School class learns latest automotive technology.
The awards recognize 27 outstanding educators across the country for their impact in their communities. Shontz is the first award recipient from Westchester County.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Leffell School teacher Harry Shontz receives NY Milken Educator Award
Reporting by Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
