In an exciting surprise announcement on October 2, 2024, Bryan Butcher Jr., a Beaumont Middle School math teacher, was named and celebrated as Oregon’s 2024-25 Teacher of the Year!

“Bryan exemplifies the impact committed teachers can have on students’ lives,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “From helping each of his students learn math in the way that works for them, to creating the Black Student Union at his school, teachers like Bryan go above and beyond to make Oregon schools a place where students not only learn, but feel a sense of safety, belonging, and pride. I’m thrilled to see his hard work being honored.”

Bryan Butcher Jr. is a Portland native and Grant High School graduate. He attended Morehouse College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Following graduation, Butcher joined Teach for America, and thus began a teaching journey which would eventually lead him to Beaumont Middle School, where he has taught math for the past eight years. When visiting Butcher’s classroom, you will see a thriving community of learners who are working together. With the guiding principles of respect and effort, Butcher believes maintaining high standards and expectations creates the conditions for students to flourish. Respect and effort provide an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, participating in discussions, and taking risks. In Butcher’s class, there is an expectation and joy that comes from learning, everyday.

“Bryan Butcher Jr. is not only an educator and an advocate, he is a champion for his students,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education. “This is a teacher who has engaged creatively with students and his community, learned enthusiastically from his colleagues, and carved out unique spaces for students to feel seen, heard, and valued. Mr. Butcher seeks to build confidence in his students by demystifying mathematical concepts and grounding his classroom culture in effort, respect, and a willingness to take academic risks. It is clear that Mr. B is beloved in his community because he prioritizes not only academic excellence but also the well-being of his students.”

“My goal is to instill a sense of pride and acknowledgement in my students that they have already built the foundation to be successful,” Butcher said in his application. “Every year, I strive to create a classroom culture where rapport leads to learning.”

The Oregon Teacher of the Year program is sponsored by the Oregon Department of Education in partnership with the Oregon Lottery. Butcher was celebrated as a Regional Teacher of the Year in September, and will receive a $10,000 cash award as the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year. A matching $5,000 is also awarded to the Portland Public School District.

“It’s impressive to see how Bryan Butcher Jr. has built trust and genuine connections with students and his community,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We’re proud to celebrate his ability to help students overcome challenges, while meeting them with grace and encouragement.”

The Oregon Teacher of the Year is selected after an extensive application process. Nominees from schools throughout Oregon submitted packets of information including testimonials and letters of support from administrators, students and colleagues. From the written material, applicants were assessed on leadership, instructional expertise, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, professional development and vision.

As the 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year, Butcher will serve as a spokesperson and representative for all Oregon teachers. He will also receive year-long professional development and networking with other state Teachers of the Year through the Council of Chief State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year program.