Willamette High Teacher Honored by Oregon Lottery

Nate Jackson received the Regional Teacher of the Year award for his work in Eugene.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Secondary Education

Screen-print poster illustration featuring a weathered globe on stack of journals, evoking a quiet, academic spirit. — Willamette High School teacher Nate Jackson was named a Regional Teacher of the Year on September 23, 2026, for his exceptional impact on students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Nate Jackson, a teacher at Willamette High School, has been named a Regional Teacher of the Year. He received the honor during a school ceremony on September 23, 2026.

Why it matters

The award recognizes educators who show exceptional impact on students both inside and outside the classroom. Jackson, who teaches American and Black studies, is now a candidate for the statewide 2027 Oregon Teacher of the Year award.

The award includes a $1,000 cash prize provided by the Oregon Lottery. Winners are selected based on their leadership, innovation, and overall dedication to students.

The players

Nate Jackson

He is an educator at Willamette High School who teaches American studies and Black studies.

Oregon Lottery

This state agency provides the funding for the regional teacher award program.

Willamette High School

This public secondary school is located in Eugene, Oregon.

The details

Jackson, who began his career in 2019, was surprised with the honor during a recent ceremony at his school. He is noted for his efforts coordinating trips for students in the Black Student Union to travel to Washington, D.C.

Nate Jackson began his teaching career in 2019.
The award ceremony took place on September 23, 2026.
The 2027 Oregon Teacher of the Year will be selected in 2027.

Culture Shift

This award highlights the ongoing trend of recognizing community-focused educational leadership within the state. It reflects a broader shift toward valuing teachers who extend their impact beyond the traditional classroom setting.

This recognition draws positive attention to the extracurricular programs available at Willamette High School. It may encourage local support for student initiatives like the Black Student Union and its travel opportunities.

The takeaway

Effective educators often prioritize real-world experiences to deepen student engagement with complex social issues. This award underscores the importance of teachers who actively mentor students through specialized clubs and travel.