Previous Winners
The Oregon Department of Education, in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, is proud to celebrate exemplary Oregon educators, both past and present.
2026
Sally Golden
Community Transition Program
Springfield
Lane
Sally Golden
- School: Community Transition Program
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 12
“I continue to see each and every student as a unique individual worthy of respect, capable of growing, and open to influence.”
2025
Bryan Butcher Jr.
Beaumont Middle School
Portland
Multnomah
Bryan Butcher Jr.
- School: Beaumont Middle School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: 6-8
“My goal is to instill a sense of pride and acknowledgement in my students that they have already built the foundation to be successful. ”
2024
Mandy Vance
Oregon Trail School District
Boring
Clackamas
Mandy Vance
- School: Oregon Trail School District
- Teaches: Wellness, Athletic Leadership
- Grade Level: 6-8th
“My goal as an educator is to create an environment where every student feels welcome exactly as they are, respected, challenged, and desires to grow both academically and personally.”
2023
Rosa Floyd
Nellie Muir Elementary School
Woodburn
Willamette
Rosa Floyd
- School: Nellie Muir Elementary School
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
“I believe that education is like dance. There are steps we learn, times when we fall, adaptations we make based on who is dancing, tradition, culture, community, and partnership.”
2022
Ethelyn Tumalad
Clackamas High School
Clackamas
Clackamas
Ethelyn Tumalad
- School: Clackamas High School
- Teaches: English Language Arts
- Grade Level: 10-11
“A metaphor of my classroom is a dining table. There’s always a seat at the table, and whatever my student is hungry for, they’ll get.”
2021
Nicole Butler-Hooton
Irving Elementary School
Eugene
Lane
Nicole Butler-Hooton
- School: Irving Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: Grade 2
“My mission is to create an environment where all students feel they belong. I will continue my efforts each day to be an educator who makes a difference for equity and social justice.”
2020
Mercedes Muñoz
Franklin High School
Portland
Multnomah
Mercedes Muñoz
- School: Franklin High School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 11-12
“While being an educator can be daunting, tiresome, and even frustrating--the great moments are what we live, breathe, and die for.”
2019
Keri Pilgrim
Churchill High School
Eugene
Lane
Keri Pilgrim
- School: Churchill High School
- Teaches: Health Services Pathway
- Grade Level: High School
2018
Matthew Bacon-Brenes
Mt. Tabor Middle School
Portland
Multnomah
Matthew Bacon-Brenes
- School: Mt. Tabor Middle School
- Teaches: Japanese
- Grade Level: K-8
2017
Gloria Pereyra-Robertson
Howard Elementary School
Medford
Southern Oregon
Gloria Pereyra-Robertson
- School: Howard Elementary School
- Teaches: bilingual kindergarten
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
2016
Heather Anderson
Juniper Elementary
Bend
High Desert
Heather Anderson
- School: Juniper Elementary
- Teaches: 4th Grade
- Grade Level: 4th Grade
2015
Michael Lindblad
Gresham High School
Gresham
Multnomah
Michael Lindblad
- School: Gresham High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: High School
2014
Brett Bigham
Multnomah Education Service District
Multnomah
Multnomah
Brett Bigham
- School: Multnomah Education Service District
- Teaches: special education transitions
2013
Nanette Lehman
Haines Elementary
Haines
InterMountain
Nanette Lehman
- School: Haines Elementary
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 2
2012
Elena Garcia-Velasco
SEIS@Roosevelt
Portland
Multnomah
Elena Garcia-Velasco
- School: SEIS@Roosevelt
- Teaches: Spanish Language Arts
2011
Colleen Works
Corvallis High School
Corvallis
Linn Benton Lincoln
Colleen Works
- School: Corvallis High School
- Teaches: Social Sciences
- Grade Level: High School
2010
Donna DuBois VanDeurzen
Camas Ridge Community School
Eugene
Lane
Donna DuBois VanDeurzen
- School: Camas Ridge Community School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 4
2009
Michael Lampert
West Salem High School
Salem
Willamette
Michael Lampert
- School: West Salem High School
- Teaches: Physics
- Grade Level: High School
2008
Mike Geisen
Crook County Middle School
Prineville
High Desert
Mike Geisen
- School: Crook County Middle School
2007
Jackie Cooke
West Gresham Grade School
Gresham
Multnomah
Jackie Cooke
- School: West Gresham Grade School
2006
Allan Bruner
Colton High School
Colton
Clackamas
Allan Bruner
- School: Colton High School
- Grade Level: High School
2005
Steven Wyborney
Nyssa Elementary School
Nyssa
Malheur
Steven Wyborney
- School: Nyssa Elementary School
- Grade Level: Elementary
2004
Catherine H. Thurber-Brown
Tigard High School
Tigard
NW Regional
Catherine H. Thurber-Brown
- School: Tigard High School
- Grade Level: High School
2003
Carrie Carpenter
Hugh Hartman Middle School
Redmond
High Desert
Carrie Carpenter
- School: Hugh Hartman Middle School
2002
Deborah Jean White
Lyle Elementary School
Dallas
Willamette
Deborah Jean White
- School: Lyle Elementary School
- Grade Level: Elementary School
2001
Norma Barber
Ukiah School District 80R
Ukiah
InterMountain
Norma Barber
- School: Ukiah School District 80R
2000
Xochtil Fuhriman-Ebert
Ontario Middle School
Ontario
Malheur
Xochtil Fuhriman-Ebert
- School: Ontario Middle School
1999
Dave Bertholf
Clear Lake Elementary School
Keizer
Willamette
Dave Bertholf
- School: Clear Lake Elementary School
1998
Nicki Gayle Hudson
West Linn High School
West Linn
Clackamas
Nicki Gayle Hudson
- School: West Linn High School
1997
C. Ford Morishita
Clackamas High School
Milwaukie
Clackamas
C. Ford Morishita
- School: Clackamas High School
1996
Raymond Hasart
Redmond High School
Redmond
High Desert
Raymond Hasart
- School: Redmond High School
1995
Barbara L. Murray
West Linn High School
West Linn
Clackamas
Barbara L. Murray
- School: West Linn High School
1994
Joanne E. Johnson
Goshen Elementary School
Eugene
Lane
Joanne E. Johnson
- School: Goshen Elementary School
1993
Sally Leahy
Glendale High School
Glendale
Douglas
Sally Leahy
- School: Glendale High School
1992
Daniel Tilson
Eastwood Elementary School
Roseburg
Douglas
Daniel Tilson
- School: Eastwood Elementary School
1991
Bonnie Elliott
Bend Senior High School
Bend
High Desert
Bonnie Elliott
- School: Bend Senior High School
1990
Stuart Perlmeter
Springfield Middle School
Springfield
Lane
Stuart Perlmeter
- School: Springfield Middle School
1989
Edward Lee McKinney
Obsidian Junior High School
Redmond
High Desert
Edward Lee McKinney
- School: Obsidian Junior High School
1988
Vincent A. Wixon
Crater High School
Central Point
Southern Oregon
Vincent A. Wixon
- School: Crater High School
1987
Dorothy Sawyer
Gladstone High School
Gladstone
Clackamas
Dorothy Sawyer
- School: Gladstone High School
1986
James R. Erickson
Redmond Senior High
Redmond
High Desert
James R. Erickson
- School: Redmond Senior High
1985
Rick Wetherell
North Bend High School
North Bend
South Coast
Rick Wetherell
- School: North Bend High School
1984
Evelyn Mae Andrews
Tualatin Elementary School
Tualatin
NW Regional
Evelyn Mae Andrews
- School: Tualatin Elementary School
1983
Jean Hoem
Oregon School for the Blind
Salem
Willamette
Jean Hoem
- School: Oregon School for the Blind
1982
Lynda Hatch
Pilot Butte Junior High School
Bend
High Desert
Lynda Hatch
- School: Pilot Butte Junior High School
1981
Bonnie Morgan
Sam Barlow High School
Gresham
Multnomah
Bonnie Morgan
- School: Sam Barlow High School
1980
Marlene Tymchuk
Reedsport High School
Reedsport
South Coast
Marlene Tymchuk
- School: Reedsport High School
1979
Chester K. Bowser
Crater High School
Central Point
Southern Oregon
Chester K. Bowser
- School: Crater High School
1978
Joy Jeannine Linder
Tualatin School
Tualatin
NW Regional
Joy Jeannine Linder
- School: Tualatin School
1977
Nola W. Coval
Brown Junior High School
Hillsboro
NW Regional
Nola W. Coval
- School: Brown Junior High School
1976
Douglas D. Anderson
McMinnville High School
McMinnville
NW Regional
Douglas D. Anderson
- School: McMinnville High School
1975
Joyce J. Osternig
Winston Churchill High School
Eugene
Lane
Joyce J. Osternig
- School: Winston Churchill High School
1974
Mike Ford
Waluga Junior High School
Lake Oswego
Clackamas
Mike Ford
- School: Waluga Junior High School
1973
John Arthur Ensworth
Kenwood Elementary School
Bend
High Desert
John Arthur Ensworth
- School: Kenwood Elementary School
1972
Verne Martin
Twality Junior High School
Tigard
Clackamas
Verne Martin
- School: Twality Junior High School
1971
John A. Duncan
Blossom Gulch Elementary and Marshfield Junior High Schools
Coos Bay
South Coast
John A. Duncan
- School: Blossom Gulch Elementary and Marshfield Junior High Schools
1970
Carlton Bryson
Benson High School
Portland
Multnomah
Carlton Bryson
- School: Benson High School
1969
Alene Nelson
Lake Oswego Junior High School
Lake Oswego
Clackamas
Alene Nelson
- School: Lake Oswego Junior High School
1968
James Grossnicklaus
Philomath High School
Philomath
Linn Benton Lincoln
James Grossnicklaus
- School: Philomath High School
1967
Gene Doty
Hillsboro Union High School
Hillsboro
NW Regional
Gene Doty
- School: Hillsboro Union High School
1966
Norman Anderson
Tillamook High School
Tillamook
NW Regional
Norman Anderson
- School: Tillamook High School
1965
John McManus
McMinnville Junior & Senior High School
McMinnville
Willamette
John McManus
- School: McMinnville Junior & Senior High School
1964
Marie Prescott
Ashland Elementary
Ashland
Southern Oregon
Marie Prescott
- School: Ashland Elementary
1963
Gladys B. Belden
Albany Union High School
Albany
Linn Benton Lincoln
Gladys B. Belden
- School: Albany Union High School
1962
Lorraine Sabo
Meriwether Lewis Elementary School
Portland
Multnomah
Lorraine Sabo
- School: Meriwether Lewis Elementary School
1959
Mary Hawkes
Hood River High School
Hood River
Columbia Gorge
Mary Hawkes
- School: Hood River High School
1955
Margaret Perry
Monmouth Elementary School
Monmouth
Willamette
Margaret Perry
- School: Monmouth Elementary School
Margot Peek
- School: Willamette Primary School
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: 2
“I integrate diverse perspectives, texts and experiences so students see themselves reflected in the curriculum; this fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for our similarities and differences.”
Sarah Anderson
- School: Dufur School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Teenagers are full of opinions, and I help them translate those opinions into civic involvement and writing proficiency.”
Jennifer Bracken
- School: Sutherlin East Primary
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: K/1
“I strive to ensure that every student – regardless of background, ability, or prior knowledge - feels inspired, capable, and excited to learn.”
Sena Raschio
- School: Humbolt Elementary
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: K
““Sena Raschio’s unwavering dedication, innovative teaching methods, and strong leadership…will leave a lasting legacy.” -Amy Hunt, Title IA Teacher.”
Mona Mensing
- School: Redmond High School
- Teaches: English
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I have always felt like nurturing teenagers in a classroom all day comes with great responsibility to let them know the importance of their world outside.”
Marianne Smith
- School: McLoughlin High School
- Teaches: Art
- Grade Level: 9-12
“By dissolving the traditional classroom walls, I strive to give my students not just an education in art, but an education in possibility.”
Maria Crowley
- School: Jefferson County Middle School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: 9-12
“It just takes one breakthrough with one kid to affect the whole class and it takes just one breakthrough with one class to affect the whole community. ”
Makenna Heffington
- School: Fremont Elementary
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: Pre-K
“I foster a space where students can reflect on their actions, connect their hearts and minds, and draw on their personal strengths; they become more self-aware, empathetic, and capable decision-makers”
Sally Golden
- School: Community Transition Program
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 12
“I continue to see each and every student as a unique individual worthy of respect, capable of growing, and open to influence.”
Kacey Baxter
- School: Newport Middle School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 6-8
“I focus on fostering an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, are treated with dignity, respect, and an equal opportunity to participate in all aspects of school life. ”
Jo Lane
- School: Roosevelt High School
- Teaches: Arts/Theater
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Students deserve a well-rounded education that includes the arts because arts are a core subject that truly connect everything together, pushing them to be their most authentic, confident, best selves”
Amy Huffman
- School: Little Explorers Preschool
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: Pre-K
“Not only do I feel that it is important for my students to make connections to themselves with our classroom literacy, but I also want their families to feel that connection as well.”
Jason Galbraith
- School: Sunset High School
- Teaches: Computer Science/Engineering
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I strive to create a learning environment that celebrates cultural strengths, uses student-centered approaches, and encourages students to see failure as a learning opportunity.”
Kimberly Agricola
- School: Sunset Middle School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: 6-8
“My goal is not only to help students become proficient in math, but also to help them believe in their ability to learn, grow and persevere through challenges.”
Max Jones
- School: North Valley High School
- Teaches: Band/Music
- Grade Level: 9-12
“My philosophy of teaching – fostering collaboration, student ownership, and musical excellence – while ensuring all learners, regardless of background or ability, experience growth and success.”
Korrie Shull
- School: John F. Kennedy High School
- Teaches: Agriculture Sciences & Technology
- Grade Level: 9-12
“My passion for teaching agriculture sciences, and technology stems from a deep belief that students learn best when they feel connected to the material.”
Robert Parker
- School: Sabin-Schellenberg Professional Technical Center
- Teaches: CTE: Architecture & Design
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Students learn that their work, their ideas, can impact the world. Their work, their ideas, can have value and meaning for their community.”
Yesenia Marquez-Barragan
- School: Chenowith Elementary School
- Teaches: Dual Language Immersion
- Grade Level: Elementary
“As a dual language teacher, I believe that it's my responsibility to build a foundation that emphasizes the importance of belonging and celebrates student’s various cultures and identities.”
Sheri Carson
- School: Roseburg High School
- Teaches: Career and Technical Education
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I believe all students deserve the opportunity to receive an education that will enhance and better their life.”
Michelle Yunker
- School: Early Childhood Center
- Teaches: Pre-K
- Grade Level: Pre-K
“I believe that every family needs someone in their corner cheering them on. I’m audacious enough to believe that person can be me.”
Debra Sayre
- School: COIC-Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council
- Teaches: Special Education & Language Arts
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I choose to set our students up for success by using their individual backgrounds, experiences, and goals.”
Niccole Harrison
- School: Nixya'awii Community School
- Teaches: 9-12
“I have become part of the lives of my students, and over the last few years, I have grown close to so many. ”
Christa Rohrbach
- School: Jefferson County Middle School
- Teaches: English
- Grade Level: 6-8
“Creating a culture of belonging is something I take very seriously and endeavor to do in any task I take on.”
Deborah Watts
- School: Arthur D. Hay Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: Elementary
“I strongly support the arts and hands-on-learning to enhance my students’ confidence levels and to insure active involvement in their learning.”
Kathryn Holst
- School: Creswell Middle School
- Teaches: Special Education & Language Arts
- Grade Level: 6-8
“Connecting students with the community outside of school is key to students being able to see the big picture of what they are learning and how it fits into their overall life.”
Jodi Howell
- School: West Albany High School
- Teaches: Social Studies & English
- Grade Level: 9-12
“My ultimate goals is that every student feels safe, secure, and respected, and I strive to incorporate diverse voices and experiences throughout all content.”
Kim Worley
- School: Willowcreek School
- Teaches: English
- Grade Level: 6-8
“I teach in a very small community that heavily supports the school and thrives off school successes. It is important that I have student involvement within the community in as many facets as possible.”
Bryan Butcher Jr.
- School: Beaumont Middle School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: 6-8
“My goal is to instill a sense of pride and acknowledgement in my students that they have already built the foundation to be successful. ”
Dennis Starr
- School: Spray High School
- Teaches: Science
- Grade Level: 9-12
“We try to promote a comfortable and safe environment of respect for each other in and out of the classroom.”
Kayla Davidson
- School: Fern Hill Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: Elementary
“I focus on how social-emotional learning is weaved thoughtfully into every aspect of my teaching, creating numerous opportunities for students to learn and grow.”
Tori Corak
- School: Enterprise Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary
- Grade Level: Elementary
“By getting to know each student on a personal level I can gear my instruction to hopefully help each of them find success.”
Samantha Herron
- School: Coquille Junior/Senior High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: 6-8
“It’s important to me that my students see that I care about the subject I teach, their learning opportunities, and, of course, them as individuals.”
Kellen Akiyama
- School: Gladiola High School
- Teaches: Humanities & World History
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I want to give my students a sense of 'this is possible.' I want them to try things, be curious, ask a speaker why love what they do.”
David Clauson
- School: McMinnville High School
- Teaches: Engineering Technology
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Woven throughout every project my students tackle is the development of the skills all humans need - self-awareness, curiosity, communication and collaboration.”
Mandy Vance
- School: Boring Middle School
- Teaches: Wellness, Athletic Leadership
- Grade Level: 6-8th
“My goal as an educator is to create an environment where every student feels welcome exactly as they are, respected, challenged, and desires to grow both academically and personally.”
Wesley Mitchell
- School: Dry Hollow Elementary School
- Teaches: 5th Grade
“Students in my classroom never say, ‘When will we need this?’ because they see how, why, and when they will need all that they are learning!”
Jessica Norton
- School: Coffenberry Middle School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 6-8th
“Differentiating and meeting each student where they’re at is my jam. I was a student who learned differently, so I am a big advocate for aligning myself as a teacher with each student's needs.”
Robyn Miller
- School: Humbolt Elementary School
- Teaches: 3rd Grade
“My biggest goal as a teacher is that all students leave my classroom with self-confidence, the feeling of success, and the motivation to continue to learn.”
Roxane Bailey
- School: Burns High School
- Teaches: Science
- Grade Level: 9-12th
“I believe when a hands-on approach is taken in the classroom, learning becomes intrinsic for all students, from all cultures, identities and abilities.”
Dan Kernion
- School: Redmond High School
- Teaches: Manufacturing
- Grade Level: 9-12th
“I am able to meet students where they are with their abilities and knowledge and create a path to success from the beginning of the project until completion.”
Jean Collins
- School: Heppner Junior-Senior High School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: 9-12th
“I believe that my duty as an educator is to build up the confidence of my students so that they are able to take charge of their own learning.”
Rebecca Brouillard
- School: Culver Elementary School
- Teaches: 5th Grade
“I believe all students are capable of making progress, and I will help them… it is essential to cultivate a classroom culture of learning and growth for all students.”
Mariah Engle
- School: César E Chávez Elementary School
- Teaches: Kindergarten
“Learning about the differences and similarities of others plants the seed of how vital and beautiful diversity is, especially for our youngest learners.”
Adam Galen
- School: Sam Case Elementary School
- Teaches: 5th Grade
“I believe that relationships are the most important aspect of student success. Students that know you care about them and have high expectations for them will reach for the stars.”
Nicole De Lagrave
- School: Jason Lee Elementary School
- Teaches: 5th Grade
“My goal is to make sure that students enter middle school already infused with a tremendous sense of self and community.”
Ashley Macnab
- School: Sherman County School District
- Teaches: Kindergarten
“I love being able to bring fun, hands-on activities to the classroom so students from every background and ability can participate without barriers.””
Carissa Martos
- School: NW Regional ESD
- Teaches: Deaf & Hard of Hearing
- Grade Level: K-12
“Self-advocacy skills are incredibly important for students who are Deaf or Hard-of-hearing, since without the appropriate accommodations, these students miss instruction and social opportunities.”
Alyse Shetler
- School: Joseph Charter School
- Teaches: Kindergarten
“Create, collaborate and imagine describes my method of how kids learn, how teachers should teach, and how relationships grow.”
Glen Crook
- School: Marshfield High School
- Teaches: CTE/Manufacturing
“I believe that it is my job as a teacher to see the potential in every student and provide them with a pathway to be successful.”
Steve Kessler
- School: North Medford High School
- Teaches: Band
- Grade Level: 9-12th
“I believe that as teachers, musicians, and artists, it’s our job to fight for what’s right and to do what we can to end injustices of all types.”
Michele Reschly
- School: Patton Middle School
- Teaches: STEM
- Grade Level: 6-8th
“I am continually reflecting on my lessons, my interactions with students, and my teaching style to create a fun and memorable classroom…and to inspire students to conquer real-world issues.”
Ron Antlitz
- School: Alder Creek Middle School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 6-8
“We have the chance to build a society in which everyone belongs no matter their gender, race, ability, gender identification or sexual orientation. Schools can play a vital role in this work.”
Gwen Bartlett
- School: Roseburg High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: 11
“Every student has potential, every student has an important story, every student has a place in our society, and it is our duty to promote and advocate this.”
Sydney Thompson
- School: Dayville School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: 6-12
“My favorite part of teaching at a small school is getting to know every student individually and helping them reach their fullest potential.”
Connie Robbins
- School: Crane High School
- Teaches: Science/Art
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I engage my students in real-life problems in their own environment and through worldly events. This helps students see outside themselves and fosters problem-solving skills for later in life.”
Ben Lawson
- School: Redmond High School
- Teaches: Music
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Music cannot exist in a bubble it must be shared with friends, family and the community. This can be done when hard-working educators work together and create meaningful and memorable experiences.”
Travis Reeser
- School: Stanfield Secondary School
- Teaches: Physical Education
- Grade Level: K-12
“Education is creating individuals who can approach life with an open mind, the ability to face and overcome obstacles, take on impossible challenges, establish morals, character and work ethic.”
Derek Burbank
- School: Culver High School
- Teaches: Agricultural Science
- Grade Level: 9-12
“We have an obligation to our community, our state and our country, to provide an education that transcends the classroom.”
Scott Crowell
- School: Academy of Arts & Academics
- Teaches: Humanities
- Grade Level: 9-12
“I help my students find a positive balance between academics and mental health by accepting them as they are, and by doing my best to provide them with an engaging educational experience.”
Heather Greel
- School: Waldport High School
- Teaches: Mathematics
- Grade Level: 9-12
“By focusing on problem solving, I am helping students to improve skills which can be applied to everyday life including perseverance, critical thinking, and communication of ideas.”
Ken Dickey
- School: Nyssa High School
- Teaches: Science
- Grade Level: 9-12
“There is an enduring message to our community members that cannot go unnoticed: learning is important, and we care about you and your continued learning.”
Amanda Jensen
- School: Highland Elementary School
- Grade Level: 3
“I am a passionate, creative, intentional leader who finds the spark in every student by ensuring a community that fosters safety, individuality, radical empathy and belonging.”
Laury Rodriguez
- School: Liberty High School
- Teaches: Math & Science
- Grade Level: 9-12
“We need to make sure all voices are heard and all students are part of the decision-making, creating a space for students to speak. ”
David Duncan
- School: Wallowa High School
- Teaches: Mathematics
- Grade Level: 7-12
“Students are encouraged to be free thinkers who solve and explain problems with creativity and clarity by creating an environment where they feel safe, have fun and learn intrinsically.”
Steven Taylor
- School: Pacific High School
- Teaches: Mathematics
- Grade Level: 7-12
“My engagement with students and their families shows them that I care about them beyond the classroom, they see that I am there for them whenever they need assistance.”
Erin Green
- School: Southern Oregon Education Service District
- Teaches: Language Arts
“Asking students to take risks, think critically, and tell their personal truths is not possible without a safe space where every student has a sense of belonging and a strong structure of support.”
Rosa Floyd
- School: Nellie Muir Elementary School
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
“I believe that education is like dance. There are steps we learn, times when we fall, adaptations we make based on who is dancing, tradition, culture, community, and partnership.”
Jim Donnelly
- School: Hood River Valley High School
- Teaches: English Language Arts
- Grade Level: 9
“My best lessons have always come about unexpectedly and resulted in me learning just as much as my students.”
Wes Crawford
- School: Sutherlin High School
- Teaches: Agricultural Science
- Grade Level: 9-12
“As a teacher who has students go down every possible career path, it is on me to make clear that every purposeful path is valued and important.”
Carrie Sullivan
- School: Dayville School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: 3-5
“In celebrating our differences while recognizing our similar challenges, we can use this unprecedented time to improve the future of our nation through innovative education.”
Carolyn Whitney
- School: Frenchglen Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: Grades K-8
“Teachers should find joy in the acquisition of knowledge that adds to their toolbox, or rearranges the tools they have that were just lost at the bottom of the box.”
Steve Wetherald
- School: Bend Senior High School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 9-12
“Relationships are at the center of everything I do, and they ignite the spirit of learning with my students.”
Jandy Eskew
- School: South Baker Intermediate School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: 5
“Schools cannot be a place to judge effort. We must foster acceptance that each life experience gives the opportunity to facilitate growth and show grace to others.”
Jill Plant
- School: Warm Springs K-8 Academy
- Teaches: Music
- Grade Level: Grades K-8
“As students discover their musical strengths, a safe space provides trust to take risks, try new things musically, and make mistakes to learn and grow.”
Ricci Huling
- School: Agnes Stewart Middle School
- Teaches: Math/Related Arts
- Grade Level: 6-8
“Every child in our country deserves the opportunity to experience an education that engages their mind and sparks their curiosity.”
Rachelle Bell
- School: Takena-Central Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: 3
“As a teacher, I am but one piece in an ever-changing puzzle unlocking fulfillment and success for a child.”
Whitney Barnes
- School: Vale Elementary School
- Teaches: Early Education
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
“Because of my confidence in the principles of love, acceptance and guidance, my classroom operates on laughter, human connections and happiness.”
Kerryn Henderson
- School: Parkrose High School
- Teaches: Biology
- Grade Level: 9-12
“As a STEM teacher, I provide real-world learning opportunities as students are engaged when the curriculum is relevant and connected to their community.”
Lori Therrien
- School: Oak Hills Elementary School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 3-5
“Through my use of an integrated curriculum focusing on student interests, strengths and passions, my students are succeeding and have dreams I know they will achieve.”
Jennifer Hampel
- School: North Bend High School
- Teaches: Science
- Grade Level: 10-12
“I am a great teacher not just because I know my content, but because I love all of my students and I let them know that.”
Lois MacMillan
- School: Grants Pass High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: 9-12
“The classroom is a glorious and hallowed space where learning takes place that may be planned, but often, if not always, goes far beyond the intended.”
Ronda Johnson
- School: Nellie Muir Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: 1
“If we as educators live each day with the courage and determination we showed during the pandemic, there is no stopping us!”
Kate Fisher Hedeen
- School: Oregon City High School
- Teaches: Biology
- Grade Level: High School
“When we as educators question our biases and reflect on our practice in meaningful ways, we approach expertise and advance the potential of our youth.”
Patrick Getchis
- School: Wy'east Middle School
- Teaches: Industrial Technology
- Grade Level: Middle School
“With appropriate scaffolds and teacher collaboration across subjects, students can be given space, time and freedom to make their learning come to life.”
Beverly Scott
- School: Riddle Jr./Sr. High School
- Teaches: Life Science
- Grade Level: 7-12
“Our students are our beacon. They guide us in our instruction and give us a sense of hope for the future.”
Melissa Stolasz
- School: Ridgeview High School
- Teaches: Science/Math
- Grade Level: High School
“Students, the thing that will make your eyes light up, the future that you will have, is probably something you don’t even know about yet, so keep every door open that you can!”
JD Cant
- School: Imbler High School
- Teaches: Agriculture
- Grade Level: Grades 7-12
“It is our collective purpose to inculcate and foster a culture where students are connected, valued, and resilient to withstand all that life will bring them on their journey.”
Melanie Friend
- School: Ashwood Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: Grades K-8
“Students will share their victories with you, and in that, it becomes your victory as well. So, know your students, foster those trusting relationships, and watch them succeed!”
Stacey Martin
- School: Adel School District
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: Grades 4-8
“I am so happy to represent the greatest profession there is. Helping young people find their gifts and see in themselves what we see in them is what all teachers strive to do.”
Brian Hanna
- School: Newport High School
- Teaches: Mathematics
- Grade Level: High School
“It is truly my pleasure to receive my students’ energy and enthusiasm and let it infuse my teaching. My students remind me every day why I became a teacher.”
Mayra Pelayo
- School: Aiken Elementary School
- Teaches: All Subjects
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
“By understanding the situations that many of our students encounter each day, our minds and hearts will be open to making sure we are emotionally present for them.”
James Jeffrey-West
- School: McDaniel High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: High School
“Education is powerful, memorable, real, and emancipatory when it transcends the classroom, and these experiences give students reasons to care and engage authentically.”
Ryan Hamilton
- School: Tillamook High School
- Teaches: History
- Grade Level: High School
“I aim to demonstrate what it looks like to be vulnerable, to take chances, to experiment, to collaborate, and to take the kind of risks that evolve learning systems.”
Christina Geierman
- School: North Bend High School
- Teaches: Science
- Grade Level: High School
“As an educator, my goal is to create a generation of informed citizens who understand what science is and how it can inform their choices.”
Jordan Werner
- School: Riverside Elementary School
- Teaches: Physical Education
- Grade Level: Grades K-5
“I believe in the power of classroom creativity, that movement is for everyone, and that given the right exposure to different activities every student can find something they enjoy!”
Larkin Foley
- School: McKay High School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: High School
“Call it a village, call it a community, call it a coalition. As educators and impassioned supporters of education, we know we cannot do it alone.”
Alissa Tran
- School: Molalla High School
- Teaches: Art
- Grade Level: High School
“If I’m going to claim that every bit of seat time counts, I better make sure that my classroom feels humanizing, relevant, rigorous, engaging, valuable and empowering.”
Dave Case
- School: Hood River Valley High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: High School
“Students need to feel safe to strive. We must provide an environment in which students can challenge themselves with rigorous coursework without fear.”
Janel Sorenson
- School: Sutherlin Middle School
- Teaches: Science, Coding, Robotics
- Grade Level: 7
“We are a profession of optimists. Our best selves think the future is worth our time and energy, which is powerful.”
Katelyn Dover
- School: John Tuck Elementary
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 1
“I believe with every ounce of my being that relationships are the most important tool in a classroom and the best way to increase student outcomes.”
TJ Presley
- School: Pilot Rock High School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: Junior High
“Think back to the reasons you chose education as a career path, and bring the same energy as you did the first day of school. ”
Manda Currier
- School: Buff Elementary
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: K-5
“We need passionate, introspective and collaborative colleagues and lawmakers to help ensure that the desired success of our students comes to fruition.”
Renee Klein
- School: Marcola School District
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: 6-12
“It is our job, as teachers, as administrators, as human beings to find the inherent value in each and every one of our students, and help them grow.”
Joshua Dunnell
- School: Farm Home School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: Secondary
“Failure can be a new beginning, because tomorrow is always an opportunity to change the world through relationships. This is why I teach.”
Jon Fresh
- School: Westview High School
- Teaches: Special Education
- Grade Level: K-12
“Building the bridge between students and learning happens when we acknowledge their past and invite the entire school community to be part of their fight for success.”
Susie Chaney
- School: Reedsport Community Charter School
- Teaches: Math
- Grade Level: 7-12
“I have been made a better person, more patient, caring, and concerned because of my students’ strength in adversity, perseverance in dire circumstances, and true grit.”
Tia McLean
- School: Helman Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: Kindergarten
“Teaching is the most beautiful and blessed profession. It has and always will be the true testament of the human spirit.”
Charles Sanderson
- School: Woodburn Wellness, Business and Sports School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: High School
“Each student brings potential and possibility, and it’s up to us to keep pushing and digging and discovering new ways of ensuring that all of that potential blossoms, grows and thrives. ”
Todd Jones
- School: West Linn High School
- Teaches: Social Studies
- Grade Level: High School
Oregon Teacher of the Year Finalist
“Why do I teach? Each day is an opportunity for me to love and be loved. Who wouldn’t want that for a career? Love your kids as if they're your own. In truth, they are. ”
Matt Rutledge
- School: Mosier Community School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 4 & 5
“Educating students is challenging. But it is also one of the most rewarding endeavors in which a human being can engage.”
Michele Engle
- School: Monument School
- Teaches: Language Arts and Career Technical Education
- Grade Level: 7-12
“We live in the most perfect scientific lab. It is just ripe with examples of the subject matter we are teaching. Explore it, manipulate it, and study it.”
Rosemary Tyson
- School: Obsidian Middle School
- Teaches: Mathematics
- Grade Level: 6
“When staff, students, parents, and community members adopt an, “All in, can do: working together to make a difference” attitude, we can impact achievement for all students.”
Robert Fairchild
- School: Weston-McEwen High School
- Teaches: Science & Math
- Grade Level: 8-12
“If students are doing science they're learning science. Content's important, but devoid of the process, it's sterile, dry and dull. Science is about active not passive learning.”
Marcy Doyle
- School: Yaquina View Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 1
Oregon Teacher of the Year Finalist
“In a world of mixed messages, bias, mediocrity and selfishness, be a change agent. Instill the love of learning and above all else, love our children unconditionally.”
Rhonda Erstrom
- School: Vale Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 2
“As educators, it is our job to give our students a voice and a place for them to dream big. By doing so, we are helping to facilitate our own future.”
Tina Roberts
- School: Gresham Barlow School District
- Teaches: Language Arts & Literacy
- Grade Level: High School
“I expect my students to do their best work every day, because every day, I'm doing my best work for them. My students believe in themselves because they know I believe in them.”
Naheed Brown
- School: Mary Woodward Elementary
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 1
“My motto always has been “Hands on, minds on, hearts on… learning.” Hence every lesson I teach, I am very aware of these criteria that guide the way I connect with students.”
Arlee Hall
- School: Coquille Valley Elementary School
- Teaches: Elementary Education
- Grade Level: 3
“On a daily basis, teachers challenge students to develop 21st century learning skills by providing opportunities to collaborate, communicate, and create.”
Greg Bryant
- School: North Medford High School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: 9
“When students know they can affect their community by applying what they learn in school, we know learning transcends the classroom.”
Amy Korst
- School: Willamina High School
- Teaches: Language Arts
- Grade Level: High School
Oregon Teacher of the Year Finalist
“I want every student to leave my classroom equipped to read news with the ability to think critically, recognize bias if one exists, and form opinions about the issue at hand.”
John McIntyre
Sacramento Elementary
Portland
Multnomah
John McIntyre
- School: Sacramento Elementary
- Teaches: Lead Custodian
- Grade Level: Elementary
Rafael Pelaez
North Marion High School
Aurora
Willamette
Rafael Pelaez
- School: North Marion High School
- Teaches: Family Outreach Advocate
- Grade Level: High School
Zandra Jansma
Southern Oregon Success Academy
Merlin
Southern Oregon
Zandra Jansma
- School: Southern Oregon Success Academy
- Teaches: Office Manager
Melinda Torres
Coos Bay School District
Coos Bay
South Coast
Melinda Torres
- School: Coos Bay School District
- Teaches: Homeless/Foster Liaison
- Grade Level: All
Paula Steinweg
Jewell School District
Jewell
NW Regional
Paula Steinweg
- School: Jewell School District
- Teaches: Bus Driver
- Grade Level: 20+ years
“My mission is to create an environment where all students feel they belong. I will continue my efforts each day to be an educator who makes a difference for equity and social justice.”
How Nominations Work
1
Nominate a Teacher
Know a great teacher? Fill out the nomination form and tell us what makes them exceptional!
2
Teacher of the Year Applications
We notify qualifying nominees and invite them to apply for Teacher of the Year.
3
Regional Teachers of the Year Selected
Each of Oregon’s 19 Education Service Districts review applications from their area and choose a winner for their region.
4
Oregon Teacher of the Year Selected
Finalists are chosen from among the regional winners, and then the designated candidate will be recommended to the Director of the Oregon Department of Education as the next Oregon Teacher of the Year.