Alumnus Matt Mayeske, Class of 2018, received the national Milken Educator Award by the Milken Family Foundation on February 8. The prestigious recognition comes with an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize and honors outstanding educators across the country for excellence in and out of the classroom.

The Milken Educator Awards are the nation’s preeminent teacher recognition program. Honorees join the national Milken Educator Network, a group whose expertise is a valuable resource to those shaping the future of education.

Mayeske currently teaches 9th and 10th grade social studies at his alma mater, Gardner Edgerton High School in Gardner, Kansas. Mayeske earned a Bachelor of Arts in secondary education in 2018 from MNU and a Master of Science in education with a specialization in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) from Pittsburg State University in 2020.

In his classroom, Mayeske makes a point to incorporate real-world scenarios. For instance, he coordinates a yearlong roleplaying game in which students create a family and participate in simulation activities for each unit. He’s also created a French Revolution simulation and a strategy-style conflict activity.

“I’m big on every person in the classroom has to learn,” Mayeske said. “Every person has to be involved. One way I learned is that games matter. History can be great, it can be boring. And I thought ‘Why not make it a game, turn it into something that’s relatable, and try to get every kid excited about it?’”

Through his commitment to hands-on learning and building a strong sense of self, Mayeske is able to help his students comprehend content on a deeper level, as well as develop transferable skills crucial for their future education and careers.

Outside of the classroom, Mayeske leads several after-school clubs including the Diversity Club, Geography Club and Ping Pong Club. In addition, he leads the Climate and Culture Committee and actively participates in the school’s Building Leadership Team and SITE Council. He also coaches track, and serves as an announcer for football, soccer and wrestling.

During the surprise award ceremony at his school, Mayeske said he was thankful and grateful for his students and colleagues.

“I had really good teachers when I was in high school – some still work here – and when I got to college, I decided I wanted to work with people,” he said. “I thought what better way to give back and be able to provide the same thing that was given to me.”