Teacher of the Year
Every year, each of the 50 states, U.S. territories, DC, and the Department of Defense Education Activity names a teacher of the year. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across the state.
Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled licensed public school educators in grades preK-12. Thanks to the Oregon Department of Education’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the Oregon Teacher of the Year receives a gift of $10,000 and a special fund to cover all travel costs for the year.
Thanks to the Oregon Department of Education’s partnership with the Oregon Lottery, the Oregon Teacher of the Year receives a gift award of $10,000 as well as a special fund to cover travel costs for the year. In addition, a gift of $5,000 is awarded to the Teacher of the Year’s school. Gifts and recognition are also awarded by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), founder of the National Teacher of the Year program.
Education Support Professional of the Year
Education Support Professionals (ESP) work together with teachers and administrators in Oregon public schools to perform a variety of jobs promoting quality education, fostering positive learning environments, offering nutritious meals, providing reliable transportation, and maintaining safe and clean schools for all students.
The primary ESP job families include:
- Clerical Services (Secretarial, financial or administrative support)
- Custodial and Maintenance Services (Building and grounds maintenance and repair)
- Food Services (Planning, preparation and delivery)
- Health and Student Services (Nursing, health and therapy support)
- Paraeducators and Education Assistants, including Early Childhood Education (working under the direction of a licensed or certified teacher)
- Security Services (School guards and resource personnel)
- Skilled Trades (Electricians, carpenters, painters, and printing services)
- Technical Services (Computer, audio-visual, and language technical support)
- Transportation Services (Bus driving and delivery services)
Nominations will be accepted through mid February. The winner will be announced via a surprise event late Spring and will receive a $5,000 award.
Nominees must be currently employed by an Oregon public prekindergarten program or K-12 school or school district and meet the definition of an ESP in Oregon.