Two Clark County teachers honored with Milken awards

 Two Clark County School District teachers were surprised Wednesday with a prestigious Milken Family Foundation Educator Award, carrying a cash award of $25,000 to spend however they choose.

 Don Curry, a science teacher at Silverado High School, and Diane Koutsulis, a music teacher at Green Valley High School, were the recipients.

 State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mary Peterson announced the awards during surprise ceremonies at each school.

 "These are outstanding people who are dedicated to children and improving society through education," she said. "I thank them for their great work and I thank the Milken Family Foundation for making this award possible."

 Established in 1987, the Milken Educator Award recognizes outstanding teachers throughout the nation.

 A committee appointed by the state department of education selects winners based on several areas including expertise, achievement in curriculum development, an outstanding ability to instill students with sound values and commitment to professional development and excellence.

 Eric Anderson, a science teacher at Eagle Valley Middle School in the Carson City School District, and Joe de Braga, principal of Spring Creek High School in the Elko County School District, were the other two recipients from Nevada.