The Oregon Lottery Proudly Sponsors Teacher of the Year

Many of us felt the positive transformational effects of great teachers in our lives. Maybe it was your math teacher who put in extra hours to help you get through those last few algebra problems. Maybe it was the instructor who introduced the book or story that unlocked the door to your imagination; your dream.

Great teachers have a special ability to help us grow, to motivate us and in general to provide avenues to make us into better people. That's the power of a great teacher.

2020 Oregon Teacher of the Year Mercedes Mu�oz of Portland's Franklin High School is an excellent teacher. She is an advocate, a mentor and a coach with an unwavering commitment to student success. Mercedes provides daily hope and encouragement to her classroom of kids with varying academic, social and emotional needs. Her Franklin High School peers describe Mercedes as a "force of nurture" and a champion for the learning needs of all students.

She's also a powerhouse in her school community, serving as a member of the Franklin High Equity Team and is deeply involved in the well-being of all students (even the ones outside her classroom) from historically underserved communities to the school's Advanced Placement Program.

Mercedes' students succeed because she challenges them to do just that. She asks for their best and expects to receive it. In the meantime, she provides opportunity and guidance for them to learn, grow and thrive.

The Oregon Lottery proudly sponsors the Oregon Teacher of the Year Program. Each year this program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, celebrating exemplary educators across the state. Winning the 2020 title means Mercedes has an opportunity to share her unique skills with fellow educators and represent Oregon at the national level. She also receives a $5,000 cash reward, as does her school, Portland's Franklin High.

The Oregon Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding teachers and encourages students to think about teaching as a career. It also gives the community a sense of pride and investment in their teachers who make a positive impact on the lives of kids.

Know a teacher who deserves recognition for their amazing work? Nominate them today for Oregon Teacher of the Year.