Regional Teacher of the Year

About the Regional Teacher of the Year Award

Washington’s Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding educators who inspire students, support fellow teachers, and positively impact their communities. Each year, every ESD selects one Regional Teacher of the Year through a nomination and evaluation process.

Regional honorees are chosen by the end of the school year and go on to complete a written application, virtual interviews, and a short keynote presentation. The State Superintendent announces the Washington State Teacher of the Year in the late summer or early fall.

Regional Winners

• 2025 – Rachel Lake, Ilwaco High School
• 2024 – Donna Schatz, Washougal High School
• 2023 – Dana Miles, Washington School for the Deaf
• 2022 – Brenda Hitchins, Washougal High School
• 2021 – Dr. Erin Lark, iTech Preparatory School
• 2020 – Amy Campbell, Helen Baller Elementary School
• 2019 – Kimberly Miller, Woodland High School
• 2018 – Ethan Chessin, Camas High School
• 2017 – Kendra Yamamoto, Martin Luther King Elementary School
  2016 – Bethany Rivard, Fort Vancouver High School

Nominate a Teacher for Regional Teacher of the Year

2026 Regional Teacher of the Year nominations are  now closed. Please check back in January for the next nomination period.

Who Can Nominate?

School districts, colleagues, students, families, and community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding candidates.

Teacher of the Year Eligibility & Criteria

Please review the eligibility requirements and other details about this years’ awards.

Nominees must:

• Demonstrate excellence in teaching and student achievement
• Foster an inclusive classroom environment for students of all backgrounds
• Build strong relationships with colleagues, families, and community members
• Show innovative leadership both inside and outside the classroom
• Communicate effectively and engagingly
• Currently teach full-time with at least 50% classroom time
• Commit to teaching for at least two more years
• Not previously received State or Regional Teacher of the Year recognition in Washington

How are Teachers of the Year Recognized?

State and Regional Teachers of the Year are recognized at a fall awards ceremony and may participate in a leadership retreat and ongoing professional development opportunities. They are encouraged to advocate for key education issues and share their voice through speaking and presenting across their region and the state.