POWAY, Calif. -- A third-grade teacher from Poway has been chosen to receive $25,000 as part of a national award that honors early to mid-career educators for what they have accomplished and their potential for future success.

Marissa Ochoa, 31, was surprised with the Milken Educator Award Wednesday at Valley Elementary School, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

Teachers across the nation are recommended for the Milken Educator Award by blue-ribbon committees that are appointed by state departments of education. The Milken Family Foundation then selects the winners using criteria that include educational accomplishments, leadership qualities and their ability to inspire others.

Ochoa was one of four California teachers chosen for the award this year, according to the Union-Tribune. She will receive the cash prize in April during the Milken National Education Conference in Los Angeles.

"It's so surreal," Ochoa told the newspaper.