Thank you Rafael for your lasting contributions to so many students and families. Education Support Professionals like you are daily change makers for Oregon’s students.
Oregon Department of Education Director, Dr. Charlene Williams
On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in a surprise announcement event, Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Director Dr. Charlene Williams joined Oregon Lottery leaders, North Marion School District Superintendent Dr. Bill Rhoades and North Marion High School Principal De Ann Jenness in honoring Rafael Pelaez as Oregon’s 2024 Education Support Professional of the Year!
Rafael Pelaez is the Family Outreach Advocate at North Marion High School.
Dr. Williams and Jen Roper with Oregon Lottery led the event and awarded Pelaez the honor.
“Rafael tirelessly links students and their families to teachers and services,” said ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams. “He is a skillful bridge builder and exemplary problem solver and I know Rafael is the first call for many students and parents when they have questions or need help navigating the education system. He’s mastered how to help North Marion High School’s diverse student body feel supported, stay engaged and ready to learn. Thank you Rafael for your lasting contributions to so many students and families. Education Support Professionals like you are daily change makers for Oregon’s students.”
“During these times when care, connection, family outreach, and relationship building are so critical to the success of our students, Rafael exemplifies the kind of effort, understanding, and empathy it requires to do this well,” said North Marion School District Superintendent Dr. Bill Rhoades. “He is loved and respected by students, staff, and families. He knows our students and families well and his proactive approach to providing the support they need when they need it generates access, opportunity, and success to many who may not otherwise experience it. We are grateful for Rafael’s mission driven service over the past 23 years and for giving us a chance to celebrate what’s right!”
Thanks to ODE’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, Rafael received an award of $5,000 and a commemorative plaque. A matching plaque and banner were awarded to North Marion High School to mark Rafael’s achievements and his impact in the North Marion community.
Support From Around The State
Pelaez’s recognition has drawn praise from leaders around the state.
“Rafael’s two decades of work at North Marion High School is inspiring. He has helped to make his school a place of belonging for so many through his work to resolve conflict, coach students, and build community connections,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “He is immensely deserving of this honor, and I wish him a happy, rewarding retirement.”
“We’re proud to support Rafael’s decades of service with the North Marion school district, where his dedication and compassion for families has built trust and understanding,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “Thank you for being a role model in your community and exhibiting values of excellence and equity.”
He is loved and respected by students, staff, and families. He knows our students and families well and his proactive approach to providing the support they need when they need it generates access, opportunity, and success to many who may not otherwise experience it. We are grateful for Rafael’s mission driven service over the past 23 years and for giving us a chance to celebrate what’s right!
North Marion District Superintendent, Dr. Bill Rhoades
Rafael’s two decades of work at North Marion High School is inspiring. He has helped to make his school a place of belonging for so many through his work to resolve conflict, coach students, and build community connections.
Governor Tina Kotek
Nellie Muir Elementary School
Woodburn
Willamette
“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.”
Clackamas High School
Clackamas
Clackamas
“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.”
Irving Elementary School
Eugene
Lane
“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.”
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We notify qualifying nominees and invite them to apply for Teacher of the Year.
Each of Oregon’s 19 Education Service Districts review applications from their area and choose a winner for their region.
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.