The surprise assembly at Greeley West turned into a reward ceremony for English teacher Mr. Caleb Flores, who won $25,000 from the Milken Family Foundation.
Flores is an English teacher and teaches students from all over the world. “I didn’t expect it to be me because of all the incredible teachers that are here. For them to call my name told me how special it truly was and it’s a reminder to me that what we get to do everyday truly matters,” Flores said.
According to the Milken Foundation website, the award is not a “lifetime achievement” award. It targets “early-to-mid career education professionals” for their achievements and the promise of their future talents.
Flores said he thought about all of the family members who helped him along the way, which gives him his passion to teach. “It reminds me of my roots with my grandparents who had immigrated here. My grandparents had to work as migrant farm workers. My parents were the first to graduate high school. My grandpa would go to school and get hit in the hand with a paddle if he spoke Spanish. So to make school a welcoming place for those students is rewarding,” Flores said.
Principal Jeff Cranson stated, “ It’s really cool to see the emotion from Mr. Flores and the passion he has with kids and this town. It’s a great honor to him and our school.”
Greeley Mayor John Gates said Flores’ honor was a celebration for the school as well. Gates attended as a dignitary at the ceremony. “I’m glad to see a Greeley West teacher win. I think it’s outstanding and Caleb deserves it and so does the school,” Gates said.
District 6 Superintendent Dr. Deirdre Pilch showed her enthusiasm during the ceremony as well. “It’s an honor to see Mr. Flores recognized in this way, and he’s an excellent educator with so many other great teachers. I am really pleased to see the work that has come from District 6,” Piltch stated.
Senior Vice President of the Milken Foundation, Dr. Jane Foley, was excited to present this experience with people around the country. “We’re giving up to 75 rewards this year and going all over the country and this is the only reward in Colorado. To be able to go around the country and thank educators for the work they’re doing is especially rewarding to me. What happened today was a very special moment,” Foley said.
Another Milken award recipient, Scott Devries, shared the importance of the reward. “It’s one of those things that you don’t know what’s coming and it hits you like a punch. When you win it’s really about representing and celebrating the decision to become a teacher,” Devries said.
Flores will be formally honored again in Los Angeles at a red-carpet ceremony celebrating all Milken Family Foundation winners.
Alejandro Silva Rodelo contributed to this report
Rhonda Solis • Dec 15, 2023 at 5:15 pm
Congratulations Mr. Flores! Bravo!