A science teacher at Metropolitan Soundview High School received the surprise of a lifetime Monday with a check for $25,000 as a thank you for going above and beyond.

Aja Brown was one of this year’s recipient of the Milken Award, an honor presented by the Milken Family Foundation that recognizes exceptional educators each year with the goal of fostering and inspiring excellence.

"I am going to continue doing what I’m doing with my students,” said Brown when asked what she’ll do with the money. “I'll probably use this for resources that I haven't gotten yet.”

Brown’s students say they are excited for their teacher, saying Ms. Brown keeps them in line but makes learning a lot of fun.