Maywood Elementary School third-grade teacher Tamara Garfio, at left looking up, reacts to the news that she is a recipient of a Milken Educator Award. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
Milken Family Foundation Chairman Lowell Milken, left, and Los Angeles schools Supt. Ramon C. Cortines, right, flank Tamara Garfio during the presentation. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
Maywood Elementary School teacher Tamara Garfio is surrounded by her students after accepting the $25,000 award. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
Tamara Garfio says: I teach critical thinking; teaching to a test means nothing.” (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
Milken Family Foundation Chairman Lowell Milken, left, and L.A. schools Supt. Ramon C. Cortines, right, flank Tamara Garfio as she is presented with an oversize $25,000 check during an assembly at Maywood Elementary School. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)
