Portageville art teacher gets national award

When DeLois Booker started teaching elementary art in Portageville, Mo., 15 years ago, she most likely never dreamed she would win a national award recognizing her exemplary leadership and her effort to promote excellence in public education.

But it happened. Booker is a recipient of the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award, which comes with an unrestricted cash award of $25,000.

Each week, Booker teaches art to 400 students in grades 1 through 6. She finds ways to incorporate other class assignments, such as reading and math, into art.

Without a doubt, Booker's dedication to her students and her continuing efforts to help youngsters appreciate art is a major asset for the Portageville community.

Congratulations to DeLois Booker on receiving this prestigious award.