Willamette Teacher Nate Jackson named Regional Teacher of the Year

We have some exciting news to share from Willamette High School!

Social studies teacher Nate Jackson has been named an Oregon Lottery Regional Teacher of the Year!

Nate has been teaching since 2019 and currently teaches American studies and Black studies at Willamette. He has made an impact on students both in the classroom and through the experiences and opportunities he helps create beyond it.

Nate has played an important role in supporting and organizing Willamette’s Black Student Union and has helped coordinate trips for BSU students to the Washington, D.C., area, including opportunities to visit Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These experiences give students the chance to explore history and culture firsthand and learn more about opportunities available to them after high school.

Nate was surprised with the recognition today at Willamette, where he celebrated alongside his colleagues and his wife, Reyna Jackson. Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson, Bethel School Board Chair Curt Nordling and Board Member Brian Hynd also joined the celebration.

The Oregon Teacher of the Year program recognizes educators for their dedication, innovation, leadership and impact on students and their communities. As a Regional Teacher of the Year, Nate is now in the running to be named Oregon’s 2027 Teacher of the Year!

Congratulations, Nate, on this exciting recognition. We’re proud to celebrate you and the impact you continue to make for Willamette students.

Thank you to the Oregon Lottery for recognizing and celebrating outstanding educators across Oregon.