When Carol Young Podmore, a Gilford Elementary School teacher, got to work yesterday morning, she had an exciting achievement to share with her students - a medal from her first marathon, which she completed Sunday.

Little did she know that hours later, she would have another achievement to share - one that required more training but was less taxing on the feet. Podmore yesterday won the $25,000 Milken Educator Award, becoming the 18th New Hampshire recipient of the prestigious teaching award and the only state winner this year.

"I'm overwhelmed and just feel blessed," Podmore said. "I get to come to work every day and do what I love to do. To be honored for that seems strange."

The award is given by the Milken Family Foundation, which has distributed more than $60 million to elementary and secondary school educators across the country since the award's creation in 1987. New Hampshire joined the program in 1999.

Teachers are given awards at a surprise, school-wide assembly. They are allowed to use the $25,000 however they choose. Up to 80 winning teachers each year are flown to Los Angeles to participate in an annual education conference. New Hampshire Education Commissioner Lyonel Tracy presented Podmore with her award.

Yesterday, colleagues praised Podmore for her energy, creativity and devotion to her students. "She's just an outstanding educator," said Principal Sandra McGonagle. "She's very student-oriented, does wonderful outreach to parents and embraces curriculum initiatives."

Podmore, 37, grew up in Alton and now lives in Gilford with her husband, Kerry, and their daughter, Gabrielle, who attends Gilford Elementary. She earned her master's degree from the University of New Hampshire and is taking classes toward her Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study at Plymouth State University.

Podmore taught first grade for eight years in Nottingham before coming to Gilford, where she has taught for six years. She teaches second and third grade in alternate years, which allows her to have the same students for two years in a row.

Lynne Clarke, who does case management for student services, has worked with special education students in Podmore's classroom for four years.

She said Podmore treats all students equally.

"She sets expectations high for students, and they're able to accomplish them," Clarke said. "She's great at having students realize the good in themselves."

Then Clarke backtracked on her statement. "Can I change good to best?" she said.

Podmore said her favorite part of teaching is "any moment I'm with children."

"I love spending every day with children, watching them learn, grow, grasp new experiences," Podmore said. "Their eyes light up. It's so rewarding."

Colleagues say Podmore has also worked closely with faculty, helping others improve their teaching.

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