Memorial Teacher Honored with $50K Award for Career Ed Excellence

The clinking of tools on metal and hum of the electric car lift were barely detectable over the roar of clapping and cheers that broke out in the Vel Phillips Memorial High School auto shop. On Sept. 30, technology and engineering teacher Miles Tokheim was surprised by family, district and school administrators, students and community partners as he received the $50,000 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence.

Tokheim runs an Automotive Services Excellence certified program at Memorial, where he collaborates with a community advisory board that aligns coursework with the local workforce needs. His students gain hands-on learning through paid youth apprenticeships with certified mentors and can earn dual-credit opportunities at Madison College. 

"It's a game changer, really. Having the funding here to continue this program will be huge," Tokheim said. "Ultimately, it’ll lead to students being more successful, more exposed to the industry and getting kids excited."

In addition to the $50,000 prize – presented on a giant check – Tokheim received a custom, engraved tool chest full of Harbor Freight tools that will support students in the career and technical education courses for years to come. Out of 1,001 applicants, only 25 were awarded with prizes by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools. Within the 25 recipients, five were based out of Wisconsin.

MMSD Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard, who previously taught at La Follette with Tokheim, said he's witnessed Tokheim's dedication for years. 

"I can't say enough about your ongoing commitment to teaching and CTE programs," Gothard said to him at the award ceremony. "Our students and entire community benefit because of your work."

The award ceremony ended with one last surprise: a video from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, who shared his congratulations to each of the Wisconsin award winners.