Lawrenceville Middle School teacher surprised with prestigious Milken Educator Award

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. (WPVI) -- A local educator was awarded a special prize known as the "Oscar of teaching" on Wednesday morning.

Jeanette Capritti was surprised with the prestigious Milken Educator Award at Lawrence Middle School in Lawrenceville, Mercer County.

Capritti is the seventh grade English language arts teacher.

She was recognized for instructional excellence, professional leadership and engagement with the community.

The award also comes with a $25,000 cash prize.

Capritti is the only New Jersey educator to receive the award this school year and the first in the history of Lawrence Township Public Schools.