Stony Brook Alum John Melandro Wins Milken Educator Award

John Melandro calls his fiancée, Hannah, who is also a teacher, to let her know he's just won the $25K Milken Award. "You're paying for the wedding," she said. Photos courtesy of the Milken Family Foundation.

John Melandro MA '22, a third- and fifth-grade teacher at Tangier Smith Elementary School in Mastic Beach, New York, received a surprise during a recent school assembly when he was presented with the Milken Educator Award.

Referred to as the "Oscar of Teaching," the national honor recognizes educators who exemplify excellence in their profession. Along with the recognition, Melandro was awarded an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize.

"John Melandro's commitment to education is evident in every aspect of his classroom," said Jane Foley, senior vice president of the Milken Educator Awards and an Indiana 1994 Milken Educator, during the presentation. "He brings the same enthusiasm to his leadership at the school, helping to advance action plans, enhance character education and involve parents and families in their students' exciting journeys at Tangier Smith Elementary. It's no surprise John is known as the 'Magic Man.' "

A graduate of Stony Brook University's MA program in liberal arts and a current student in the Educational Leadershipprogram, Melandro credits Stony Brook faculty for helping him become the teacher he is today.

"Faculty like Alan Baum and Ken Forman taught me how to be a leader both inside and outside the classroom," said Melandro. "I am humbled to be selected as the only New York teacher this year to receive the Milken Educator Award, after only seven years of teaching."

Outstanding educator John Melandro is hugged by a group of excited students, happy to celebrate his spectacular day.

Melandro, the first recipient from the William Floyd School District, brings a transformative approach to teaching, emphasizing critical thinking, project-based learning, and culturally responsive education. His innovative methods have led to consistently high student performance while fostering a classroom environment where every student feels valued.

"Congratulations to John Melandro on receiving the Milken Educator Award," said New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa. "Through his innovative teaching practices, he inspires students and colleagues alike, elevating the entire William Floyd School District community."

Hailing from a family of educators, Melandro turns everyday subjects into exciting adventures by engaging students with innovative approaches and ensuring that learning is an enchanting experience for everyone. In addition to his work in the classroom, Melandro serves as a mentor, a data ambassador, and a leader in implementing programs like Character Education. His classroom is regarded as a model for others in the district.

As part of his recognition, Melandro will join a network of distinguished educators at the Milken Educator Awards Forum in Los Angeles this April. There, he will collaborate with fellow awardees and education leaders to broaden his impact on K-12 education.

First presented by the Milken Family Foundation in 1987, the Milken Educator Award was created by philanthropist and education visionary Lowell Milken and recognizes exceptional educators for their dedication to excellence in education. Recipients are heralded in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish.

Congratulations to John Melandro for daring to be extraordinary in the classroom!

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