The Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, announced Kacey Baxter as one of Oregon’s 16 2025-26 Regional Teachers of the Year! Baxter teaches special education at Newport Middle School in Newport. The award was presented at a school assembly today and was a surprise to Baxter.
Every day in Oregon classrooms, teachers offer their innovation, energy and content mastery in support of students across the state. The Oregon Teacher of the Year Program recognizes and honors teacher excellence, with the state Teacher of the Year serving as the face and voice of exemplary educators across Oregon. Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K-12.
As stated in her nomination by a colleague, “Mrs. Baxter has created such a sweet, efficient, organized, synergistic, friendly and inclusive classroom. The culture in her room is the most outstanding I have ever experienced.”
NMS Principal Marty Perez said Baxter is very deserving of this recognition. “Her leadership has been instrumental in reshaping the Special Education Department, setting new standards for what is possible in public education.” Assistant Principal Peter Ellingsen agreed. “Her approach is student-centered, innovative, and rooted in best practices that promote both academic achievement and personal growth.”
“I focus on fostering an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, are treated with dignity, respect, and an equal opportunity to participate in all aspects of school life,” said Baxter in her nomination.
Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state. Applicants submitted testimonials and letters of support and were assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.
“We are thrilled to recognize this year’s Regional Teachers of the Year – outstanding educators whose tireless dedication, creativity, and compassion enrich the lives of students and communities across Oregon,” said Director of Oregon Department of Education Dr. Charlene Williams. “Each recipient embodies the values of innovation, leadership, and inclusivity, and we are proud to honor and learn from their inspiring work. These extraordinary teachers remind us that great education transforms lives and strengthens communities.”
Each Regional Teacher of the Year wins a $1,000 cash prize and is in the running for Oregon’s 2025-26 Oregon Teacher of the Year – to be announced in October.
Since 1995, when the Oregon Lottery began allocating revenue to public education, more than $10 billion has been transferred to school districts across the state. This past year, more than $2.7 million of Oregon Lottery funding went to the Lincoln County School District.
“This group of standout Oregon teachers bring their passion for education and leadership abilities to work every day,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “Oregon Lottery is proud to celebrate the meaningful impact these educators have on our students and communities.”
On Friday, September 19, 2025, once all 16 Regional Teachers of the Year are announced, the full list of statewide winners will be available on the Oregon Teacher of the Year website.