DENHAM SPRINGS — A Denham Springs teacher received the surprise of a lifetime on Friday as she received a $25,000 award.

Katie Guidry, an ELA teacher at Denham Springs High School, received the national Milken Educator Award along with a $25,000 prize at a school assembly on Friday.

The award recognizes educators' instructional excellence, professional leadership and engagement with the community.

Milken Educator Awards Vice President Jennifer Fuller was joined by Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley to present the award to Guidry. 

“Katie Guidry helps students find their path while building the next generation of Louisiana teachers,” said Dr. Brumley. “She reaches beyond her own campus to develop partnerships that give students college credit and a head start on a career before they graduate.”

The award presentation was a part of the Milken Educator Awards 40th Anniversary Tour, which will honor up to 30 educators across the country this school year.