It is no secret that our school’s students are privy to some of the best teachers in the country. Their many honors and accolades display their impressive aptitude. One of these amazing educators is Eva Irwin, the Dean of Students. In 2023, while working at Alexandria County Public Schools (ACPS), Irwin won the Milken educator award, an exclusive honor given to only 30 teachers throughout the United States.
When Irwin worked as an English teacher at ACPS, her dedication to her students was obvious. The presenters cited her outstanding test scores and unique teaching model, exemplified by 75% of [her] students passing the state English exam and 82% passing the state writing exam, up from 68% in 2021-22 and above state and district rates.
While she performs an administrative role at our school, her personal approach with students is palpable.
“I think the biggest thing in the classroom and being an educator is just, you’re impacting the lives of young people. And I think it’s really important that teachers and educators can show their students like it’s okay to make mistakes, but this is how you can pick yourself back up, and this is how you get yourself back on track.” Irwin said
The Milken award only recognizes 30 educators in the country, making it a high honor. The prestigious award’s website describes it as “targeting early-to-mid career education professionals for their already impressive achievements and, more significantly, for the promise of what they will accomplish in the future.”
This rewards gifted teachers and recognizes their student impact. As such, teachers are often awestruck upon receiving the recognition.
“I was just, like, stunned entirely. I mean, there’s pictures of me and my face is just like utter shock, but it was just a really cool experience, and ever since then, my life has changed in a lot of positive ways.” Irwin said.
While Irwin loves teaching, she performs an administrative role at our school. This, as she states, allows her to reach as many students as possible. It also sets her along the path for her ultimate aspiration, to become a principal.
“I just wanted to try to inspire change at a larger scale. So instead of just being able to help my students in my classroom, I was hoping to make a broader impact on the school and school environment.” Irwin said.
Irwin’s dedication and passion for education is evident in everything she does. Our school is grateful to have such a compassionate and decorated individual on staff.
