Retired science teacher and former Iowa Teacher of the Year, Ernest (Ernie) Schiller, has received Dolly Parton’s “Chasing Rainbows” Award, which honors educators who have overcome challenges and given back in impactful ways.
Schiller was recognized for his decade-long mission in rural Nepal, where he has helped rebuild schools after the 2015 earthquake. Through his nonprofit, Rebuild Nepal Education Foundation, he has made 12 trips, spent over 18 months in-country, and raised over $250,000 to support education efforts.
His work has enabled 25,000+ students to attend school, with 49 students reaching college, and provided food, school supplies, and scholarships to thousands of families and children.
Now 76 years old, Schiller is currently in Nepal delivering 4,000 backpacks and visiting 32+ schools, including those for children with disabilities.
