KIPP Wisdom Academy teacher wins national teaching award

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) – KIPP Wisdom Academy first-grade teacher Mattie Lucas has been named a recipient of the national Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award, an honor given to just ten educators out of more than 20,000 KIPP teachers nationwide.

The surprise announcement came during Teacher Appreciation Week, when Lucas’ family walked into what staff believed was a routine meeting. The award includes a $10,000 prize and recognizes outstanding teaching, leadership, and dedication to student success.

“Mattie is a teacher who changes lives,” said KIPP Wisdom Academy School Leader Justin Schulze. “Her consistency, high expectations, and joy help students reach their full potential.”

Lucas’ students showed the highest reading growth in her grade level across KIPP St. Louis in 2024. She also launched a Girls on the Run program and is known for supporting colleagues with kindness and encouragement.

Lucas is one of just five KIPP St. Louis teachers to ever receive the award. This year marks the first time three teachers from the same school have earned the distinction within two years.

Watch the surprise award ceremony here.