Madison Reporter

Three educators from the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) have been recognized with the 2025 Herb Kohl Awards, honoring their contributions to education in Wisconsin. Principal Nkaujnou (Nou) Vang-Vue of Lake View Elementary School received the Principal Leadership Award, while Emily Sonnemann from East High School and Liz Mehls from West High School were honored with the Teacher Fellowship Awards.

The awards come with $6,000 for each recipient and matching grants for their schools. Principal Vang-Vue was praised for her instructional leadership and commitment to a positive school culture. Sonnemann and Mehls were recognized for their ability to motivate students and inspire a love of learning.

"I am so glad you are all here today," Vang-Vue tells her school community daily, a sentiment reflecting her leadership style. She acknowledges her staff's efforts, saying, "This award is for all of Lake View."

Culinary teacher Sonnemann, known for integrating entrepreneurship and sustainability into her curriculum, was commended by her leadership team as essential to preparing students for future success. "We are lucky to have her at East," they expressed.

Liz Mehls, who has taught various English classes for 14 years and joined the AVID team in 2021, appreciates the dynamic nature of teaching. "As a teacher, I get to live many lives," Mehls shares. Her nomination for the Kohl Fellowship by West High Assistant Principal Lori Schacht Dethorne left her feeling honored and grateful.

These educators are among 114 across Wisconsin receiving awards from the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation this year.