With all the political squabbling, low test scores and now furloughs surrounding our schools, it's easy to get discouraged about public education in Hawaii.

But teachers like Lisa-Anne Tsuruda — Hawaii's winner of the prestigious 2009 Milken Educator Award — remind us that many good things happening in our schools.

Tsuruda was recognized last week for the prestigious honor, which is given to outstanding educators across the country who serve as models of excellence. Her work must speak for itself; there are no formal nominations or application process, and the winner is chosen by an independent committee.

Tsuruda, who heads the English department at Mililani High School, also receives a $25,000 check.

Both faculty and students praised her exemplary passion and dedication, key requirements for the award. "She cares so deeply about each of her students, she makes sure nobody fails," said Mililani Principal John Brummel.

For Tsuruda, success as an educator means teaching students to develop critical analytical skills that come from studying classic English literature — from Dante's "Inferno" to her personal favorite, Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." She wants her students to apply these skills with confidence beyond her classroom.

"We have wonderful children, but we have to give them opportunities," Tsuruda said later. "Literature, if you give it a chance, it will open your mind, your experience. Words can change everything."

As for the loss of 17 instructional days to furloughs, she'll use the time to catch up on schoolwork. She doubts she'll be alone: "I'll bet 100 percent of teachers will be doing something teacher-related, like grading tests" during the furlough days.

Tsuruda is proud of her "noble profession," and of her students and their accomplishments. It's something the rest of us should be proud of, too.