Educators Reflect on the Impact of the Discovery Award
Each year, the Discovery Award Competition empowers students in grades 4–12 to uncover and share the stories of Unsung Heroes, individuals whose courage and compassion changed history. For the educators who guide them, the impact goes far beyond the classroom.
“The project makes history come alive for my students,” shared Silvia Miranda, a 2025 Discovery Award-winning teacher. “It answers the question, ‘Why do we have to learn this?’ by showing them that history isn’t just about dates or events — it’s about people who made a difference. They begin to see that anyone can be a hero and that their own voices matter.”
Across grade levels, teachers emphasized how the competition builds both academic and life skills — from research and analysis to empathy and resilience. Kevin Dailey explained, “This project isn’t easy. It happens because students put forth effort and overcome obstacles. The lessons in resiliency and determination are invaluable.”
Brian Dussel noted that the competition “gives students a voice and a purpose. They learn how storytelling and scholarship can honor those who made a difference.”
Suzy Turner described how the experience transforms understanding: “Students realize the tremendous power of the individual to impact others and the world they live in — it’s far more captivating than the traditional history classroom experience.” Her students, she added, “gain empathy, communication, and collaboration skills while learning to tell powerful stories that connect history to the present.”
For Carolin Menendez, the project’s impact was especially clear through her students’ reflections. “They began to see history differently,” she said. “Learning about Alex Bernal’s story helped them understand that many of the rights we enjoy today exist because of people like him — and that big change often has small beginnings.”
Valerie Conklin shared how students have taken their learning to new heights through the competition. “My students who have participated in the Discovery Award have not only deepened their understanding of history but have truly created new knowledge in the form of documentaries, websites, and performances that have been shared with a global audience. This important research gives our students a voice and the power to uplift and amplify the stories of Unsung Heroes.”
For many educators, the Discovery Award also redefines what learning can look like. “It’s the perfect blend of academic skill-building and real-world learning,” said Terry Kaldhusdal. “It connects directly to the community and fosters lifelong curiosity.”
And as Chris Dier, the 2024 National Outstanding Discovery Award Teacher, shared, “This project allows students to step into the role of historians and bring history to life in meaningful ways. It’s a beautiful process.”
Together, these educators agree that the Discovery Award inspires students to see history not as something distant, but as something deeply human — and to recognize their own power to make a difference.
Learn more about how your students can take part in the 2026 Discovery Award Competition: lowellmilkencenter.org/competitions/discovery-award
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Just a reminder! If you’re looking for a meaningful and engaging experience for your students or organization? Plan a field trip to the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott! Explore inspiring exhibits like the Irena Sendler story, try hands-on activities and our new digital art board, stroll through the Lowell Milken Park, and enjoy a kid-friendly scavenger hunt.
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