Jill has received a national Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize! Ridder has dedicated her career to increasing teacher leadership and preparing students for purposeful, bright futures. Currently serving as principal of Woodbine Elementary in Woodbine, Iowa, she has cultivated an environment has grown math and reading proficiency to the point that over 75% of her students are performing at least a year above their grade level. Previously a fifth grade teacher, preschool teacher, and school-based interventionist, Ridder harnesses her diverse experiences to inform her leadership of Woodbine Elementary. Aligning to the district’s priority on personalized, competency-based learning, every Woodbine student has an individualized plan and can study a range of interests, including STEM, dance, culinary arts, 3D printing, and more. She was surprised with the award on Thursday, Jan. 22, when Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley and Iowa Department of Education Director McKenzie Snow presented the honor during a school assembly.
Mary Wallace, BS 25
Mary says that her greatest accomplishment is finishing her degree after 19 years. “Never give up on your dreams.”
