MMSD educators earn teacher fellowship awards from Herb Kohl Educational Foundation

MADISON, Wis.—Four educators from the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) have been selected as 2026 Teacher Fellowship recipients by the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation, a statewide honor recognizing excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to student success.

The MMSD honorees are Eric Hartz, MMSD’s Campus Connect special education teacher-leader located at Madison College; Ben Jaeger, band teacher at Memorial High School; Kristen Scott, bilingual dual language immersion fourth-grade teacher at Nuestro Mundo Elementary School; and Julie Rice, fourth-grade teacher at Aldo Leopold Elementary School.

The annual Teacher Fellowship awards are given to educators who demonstrate exceptional skill in the classroom, leadership within their school communities and a dedication to supporting students both academically and personally. Recipients are selected through a competitive process that draws nominations from across Wisconsin.

“These teachers exemplify the passion, creativity and commitment that define teaching at its best,” said Dr. Carlettra Stanford, assistant superintendent of schools and learning for MMSD. “Their ability to connect with students, inspire growth and contribute to strong school communities reflects the kind of impact we strive for across our district.”

Each recipient will receive a $6,000 award, with an additional $6,000 grant provided to their school to support student learning and school-based initiatives.

From music education and bilingual instruction to student support services and elementary classrooms, the work of this year’s recipients reflects the breadth of experiences and opportunities available to MMSD students. Their contributions extend beyond daily instruction, helping shape inclusive environments where students feel supported, challenged and prepared for future success.

The Herb Kohl Educational Foundation has recognized outstanding educators across Wisconsin for more than three decades, investing in schools and celebrating those who make a lasting difference in the lives of students.

For information about other recent recognitions that MMSD staff and students have received, please visit the Awards page of the district’s website.

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About the Madison Metropolitan School District

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving more than 25,000 students across 52 schools. The district’s vision is that every school will be a thriving school that prepares every student to graduate ready for college, career and community. With more than 7,000 teachers and staff, MMSD is committed to ensuring the district’s goals and core values are held at the center of its efforts, so students can learn, belong and thrive. For more information, visit mmsd.org.