Congratulations, Erica Carrillo!
Erica exemplifies the heart of public education. Her dedication to students, colleagues, and our entire school community makes this recognition incredibly well deserved.
Dr. Carolyn Bernal, North Wasco County School District Superintendent
In a surprise announcement event on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Director Dr. Charlene Williams joined Oregon Lottery leaders, North Wasco County School District Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Bernal, and The Dalles Middle School Principal Sherri Kilgore and Vice Principal Shudhi Datta in honoring Erica Carrillo as Oregon’s 2026 Education Support Professional of the Year. Carrillo is the Bilingual Family Liaison at The Dalles Middle School.
Dr. Williams and Jen Roper with Oregon Lottery led the event and awarded Carrillo the honor.
“Education support professionals like Ms. Erica Carrillo are at the heart of strong schools and strong communities,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “Through her leadership, compassion, and commitment to students and families, she has helped ensure that every family feels welcomed, connected, and empowered to participate in their child’s education. Ms. Carillo’s work reminds us that creating belonging in our schools can change the trajectory of students’ lives.”
“Ms. Carrillo exemplifies what it means to remove barriers so students and families can thrive,” said Dr. Williams. “Whether she is helping families navigate school systems, connecting students to basic needs, translating critical information, or creating opportunities for families to engage with their school community, Ms. Carrillo approaches every part of her work with care, creativity, and deep dedication. Her impact extends far beyond The Dalles Middle School; she represents the vital role education support professionals play in building trust, strengthening partnerships, and helping every student feel seen and supported.”
Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, Carrillo received an award of $5,000 and a commemorative plaque. A matching plaque and banner were awarded to The Dalles Middle School to mark Carrillo’s achievements and her impact in the North Wasco County community.
“We’re proud to honor Ms. Carrillo for her ability to foster trust and connection with families and build a welcoming community,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “This award highlights her outstanding work in supporting students beyond the classroom.”
“This award reflects Erica’s outstanding commitment to serving students and supporting excellence in education every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Bernal. “She represents the very best of our district, and we are thrilled to celebrate this achievement with her.”
Ms. Carrillo exemplifies what it means to remove barriers so students and families can thrive. Whether she is helping families navigate school systems, connecting students to basic needs, translating critical information, or creating opportunities for families to engage with their school community, Ms. Carrillo approaches every part of her work with care, creativity, and deep dedication. Her impact extends far beyond The Dalles Middle School; she represents the vital role education support professionals play in building trust, strengthening partnerships, and helping every student feel seen and supported.
Dr. Charlene Williams, Oregon Department of Education Director
Previous Winners
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. ”
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.”
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.”
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.