KEARNEY, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska teacher has been honored as an outstanding educator.

Kearney High School social studies teacher Kevin Witte received the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award at a ceremony last week in a surprise presentation by Gov. Dave Heineman, Deputy Nebraska Education Commissioner Scott Swisher and others at the school.

Officials say Witte’s classroom activities are varied and student-centered and that Witte has traveled abroad multiple times, bringing back information to enrich his classroom. Witte also was credited for developing a new imaginative course called International Wealth and Poverty.

Witte was one of only 40 nationwide to receive the award this year. He receives $25,000 with the honor.