This year, three outstanding Elmbrook educators have been named recipients of the prestigious 2025 Herb Kohl Teacher Fellowship award! Hannah Guth of Brookfield East High School, along with Dr. Ashley Van Galen and Alek Shumaker of Pilgrim Park Middle School, were recognized for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to student success inside and outside the classroom.

The Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Teacher Fellowship award honors 100 teachers across Wisconsin each year with a $6,000 grant. In addition, each recipient’s school receives a matching $6,000 grant to support student learning and school initiatives. These awards celebrate teachers who inspire a love of learning, foster academic growth, and serve as role models in their school communities.

“The Kohl Foundation’s continued investment in Wisconsin educators has a lasting impact on our schools,” said Superintendent Mark Hansen. “We are incredibly proud of Hannah, Ashley, and Alek for their dedication and the meaningful connections they make with students every day. Congratulations to these exceptional educators on this well-earned recognition!”

The Herb Kohl Educational Foundation has long supported excellence in education through its annual awards for students, teachers, and school leaders. For the full list of 2025 recipients or to learn more about the Foundation’s work, visit www.kohleducation.org.

(L to R: Guth, Van Galen, Shumaker)