CDA eighth grade math teacher surprised with prestigious teaching award

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — An eighth grade math teacher got a big surprise when he was honored with a national teaching award on Wednesday morning.

Marcus Ross walked into the gym at Lakes Middle School he knew someone would be recognized for their achievements, but he had no idea the entire school and district was keeping a secret… that he would be the award recipient.

When his name was called, students and staff erupted into cheers.

“I instantly looked at my students and the students around me who were cheering for me, and my Kind Club students who were surrounding me and who helped me get here because they’re amazing students,” said Ross.

The whole school community worked hard to keep the ceremony a surprise.

“We had actually nominated him to be the State of Idaho Teacher of the Year. I think he was a little saddened that he didn’t win that award, and at the time, we knew he was going to be a recipient of the Milken Award, so it was really challenging to keep a secret,” said Superintendent of CDA Schools, Dr. Shon Hocker.

Only 45 teachers across the country receive the award each year. This year, Ross was the only recipient in Idaho.

Executives from the Milken Family Foundation, as well as the Lieutenant Governor, Scott Bedke, and State Superintendent, Debbie Critchfield, were there to congratulate Ross.

The award also comes with a $25,000 prize that Ross can use anyway he likes.

“Knowing me, I already know that quite a bit is probably going to go back into my classroom throughout the years as I’m teaching. I spend a lot of money on my classroom, like snacks for my students, so that will happen,” said Ross.

He also plans to save some of the money to teach overseas one day.

Ross said receiving the award as a teacher at Lakes Middle School is special, because he attended the school as a student.

“I’m very shocked, and I’m honored. I’m still trying to think about the award, but it’s very much an honor,” he said.