IMESD is excited to announce that our 24-25 InterMountain Regional Teacher of the Year is Nicci Harrison at Nixya'awii Community School! Harrison is a Language Arts Teacher at Nixya'awii, which is located on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and is a charter school of the Pendleton School District.
As shared by a student in her nomination, “Ms. Harrison’s classroom has always been a place of comfort for me, and she has made it a welcoming setting where I always feel heard, safe, and seen. She has done an excellent job of making her classroom a place where students want to learn. Her whole room is engaging and full of educational opportunities.”
The Regional Teacher of the Year program is a partnership between the Oregon Department of Education and the Oregon Lottery. Applicants are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants were assessed on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.
Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2024-25 Oregon Teacher of the Year to be announced in October.
“These exceptional teachers inspire and encourage students every day in classrooms across Oregon,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to honor their contributions and vital role in making our communities stronger.”
Harrison was surprised with her award at a gathering of students and staff on Thursday, September 19th at Nixya'awii Community School.