Vernon Johnson, Oakridge Neighborhood vice president for youth education and engagement, and Marisa Maniglia, orchestra teacher for North High School and Harding Middle School, were recently honored at the By Degrees Foundation’s A Toast to Education: Middleton Award Ceremony as “education champions.” According to a news release, the By Degrees event also raised funds  highlighted the effect of the nonprofit’s “future-focused programs and raised funds to empower more students to achieve their dreams.” “Vernon and Marisa are extraordinary individuals, and we are grateful to them for their dedication to education and child advocacy in our Central Iowa community,” said Emily Westergaard, CEO of By Degrees Foundation in the release. Founded in 1990, By Degrees works in conjunction with Des Moines Public Schools and community partners, to ensure area youths have the knowledge and skills needed to graduate from high school and pursue postsecondary education.