Mary Riggs Named Teacher of the Year

A second grade teacher at Twin Oaks Elementary received the prestigious honor for her work in student education.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Awards

Screen-print poster illustration of a wooden student desk holding an apple and a small flag, representing excellence in elementary education. — Mary Riggs, a second grade teacher at Twin Oaks Elementary in Eugene, was honored as Teacher of the Year by the American Legion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The American Legion and Forty and Eight named Mary Riggs Teacher of the Year for her commitment to student education. Riggs teaches second grade at Twin Oaks Elementary in Eugene.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the impact of educators who incorporate specialized, patriotic curricula into their classrooms. By teaching students about veterans and the American flag, Riggs aims to foster a lasting sense of civic duty.

Mary Riggs teaches second grade students at Twin Oaks Elementary. The educational presentations she co-wrote regarding veterans and the American flag are slated for use on a national level.

The players

Mary Riggs

She is a second grade teacher at Twin Oaks Elementary in Eugene who was honored for her educational contributions.

The American Legion

This is a congressionally chartered veterans organization that supports community programs and education.

Forty and Eight

This is a veteran honor society that works alongside the American Legion to promote patriotic activities and educational initiatives.

The details

Riggs earned this accolade for her efforts in co-writing educational presentations that connect veteran organizations with young students. These materials were developed specifically to enhance classroom instruction regarding history and national symbols.

October 1, 2026: The award announcement was made.

Roadmap

This award mirrors the criteria found in the American Legion's National Teacher of the Year program. It follows a pattern of local honors that emphasize civic engagement within elementary school curricula.

Students at Twin Oaks Elementary will benefit from expanded access to the patriotic educational materials developed by their teacher. These presentations serve as a model for how local classrooms can integrate community history into daily lessons.

The takeaway

Educators who bridge the gap between community organizations and the classroom often provide students with unique historical perspectives. Implementing similar civic-focused programs can help students better understand the legacy of veterans in their own neighborhood.