Community Invited to Nominate Exceptional Teachers

Great teaching happens every day in classrooms across the McKenzie and Springfield school districts – and local educators have already shown they can rise to the highest levels of recognition.

The Oregon Department of Education, in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, is accepting nominations for the 2026–27 Oregon Teacher of the Year, a statewide program honoring exceptional public school teachers. Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding educators serving students in preK–12, including teachers in local McKenzie and Springfield schools.

Nominations are open through 5 p.m. on February 11, 2026, and anyone – parents, students, colleagues, or community members – may submit a nomination. Eligible nominees must be licensed public school teachers.

The impact of local nominations is clear. Sally Golden, a special education teacher with Springfield Public Schools, was named the 2025–26 Oregon Teacher of the Year. Golden was honored for her leadership of the Community Transition Program, which supports young adults with disabilities as they build life and job skills. She received a $10,000 award, along with an additional $5,000 for her program, and now serves as a statewide representative and advocate for Oregon teachers.

The Oregon Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication, knowledge, and skill in the classroom. After nominations close, eligible nominees will be invited to submit a formal application. From that pool, Regional Teachers of the Year will be selected from each of Oregon’s 19 Education Service Districts. Each regional honoree receives a $1,000 award and statewide recognition in September.

Finalists are then chosen by a blue-ribbon panel, leading to the selection of the 2026–27 Oregon Teacher of the Year. With support from the Oregon Lottery, the state honoree receives a $10,000 award and funding to cover travel throughout the year while serving as an ambassador for educators across Oregon. The state honoree is also considered for the National Teacher of the Year honor.

Community members interested in nominating a teacher are encouraged to review eligibility requirements on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website. Questions about the program may be directed to Michelle Goodness, Oregon Teacher of the Year Program Coordinator.

For students, families, and residents in the McKenzie and Springfield areas, nominating a teacher is a simple but meaningful way to recognize educators who inspire learning, strengthen communities, and change lives every day.