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Ying Ying Chen (IA '02), who won the Milken Educator Award as principal of Prairie Crest Elementary School in Cedar Rapids, has passed away. She was 65.

Born in Taiwan, the daughter of educators, Ying Ying retired in 2014 as the executive director of learning services in the College Community School District.

Featuring:

Ying Ying Chen (IA '02)

Articles

Milestones

Mike Patterson (NV ' 09) Named 2025 Nevada State Teacher of the Year
Mike Patterson (NV '09)
Dr. Ernie Adkins (WV '98) Named WV Assistant Superintendent of the Year
Dr. Ernie Adkins (WV '14)

Quotes

"I became an educator because I wanted to make a difference. I love kids. I love seeing them learn and grow."

— Abby Turbak's South Dakota Milken Educator Award interview, McKinley Elementary, Watertown

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Abby Turbak (SD '22)
Teacher

In Memoriam

About Connections

Connections amplifies the voices of Milken Educators by focusing attention on the work and experiences of excellent educators across the nation. Through articles written by and about the work of Milken Educators, as well as features exploring classroom technology, strategies, education news and more, Connections sparks meaningful conversations about education.

Memoriam All Memoriams

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