_ Note to readers: A headline on an earlier version of this story incorrectly reported that a Lawrence Central teacher was one of the two Milken award recipients._

Indiana education officials today surprised two Indianapolis teachers with the Milken Family Foundation National Teaching Award.

Herron High School English teacher Greg Lineweaver was surprised at an
assembly this afternoon with the announcement.

Principal Janet McNeal said Lineweaver is captivating as an instructor — passionate about teaching and a master of how to interest students in class.

Like North Central High School English teacher Ed Coleman, who received the
same award earlier today, Lineweaver received a $25,000 check.

Jane Foley, senior vice president of the foundation, said Coleman represents the best of education.

Coleman, 41, took an unusual path into teaching, first earning a master’s in theology from Harvard University and considering a career as a college professor before earning a master’s degree in education.

North Central Principal C E Quandt said Coleman forges a strong connection with students that pushes them to delve into literature in ways they hadn’t previously considered.

“That he can get high school boys to get into poetry shows you the kind of gift he has,” Quandt said. “He listens a lot, he accepts students, their concerns, their hesitations.”

Students in his classes said Coleman’s lessons are unlike they get elsewhere in that they are interactive. The teacher, they said, clearly respects and cares about them.

“I love how he can take a really complicated thing and make it simple for you,” said Allison McLaughlin, a senior.