Jeffery Heggs, a math teacher at Burke County High School, got a big surprise on Friday morning. Heggs was named Georgia’s only Milken Educator for 2025-26 and given $25,000 during what seemed like a normal assembly.
Stephanie Bishop, the vice president of the Milken Educator Awards, was the one to announce Heggs as the winner in front of cheering students and staff. Heggs is the first teacher ever from Burke County Public Schools to get this national award.
“You don’t see many teachers who are as well-rounded as Jeffery Heggs,” said Bishop. “Jeffery’s light shines all over Burke County and beyond.”
Richard Woods, the Georgia State School superintendent, praised Heggs’ work. “He makes the classroom a place where students are pushed, helped, and motivated,” Woods said.
A teacher who is known for being creative
Heggs teaches IB math, algebra I, and the basics of algebra. People know his classroom for using technology, doing group challenges, and teaching math in a way that relates to the real world. One student project even got a patent for a fishing lure.
He is also the school’s data analyst, which means he helps keep track of how students are doing and finds patterns in their learning. Heggs has several leadership certifications and has spoken at national education conferences.
Building strong mentorships
Heggs leads Burke County High Schools’ popular bow tie club, which offers young men mentorship and college visits. He also helped create the school’s first student council, tutors after school and serves as an after-school administrator.
Heggs will join other honorees at the Milken Educator Awards Forum in Washington, D.C., in June 2026
