Springfield special education teacher Sally Golden has been named Oregon teacher of the year.

Golden was celebrated by her own students Friday, as well as Two Rivers-Dos Rios Elementary School students during a surprise ceremony.

Golden, a graduate of the Springfield School system herself, thanked the teachers that mentored her throughout her childhood, and urged students at the ceremony to thank their own teachers.

“Teachers make an impact on you, and they remember you,” Golden said. “You make an impact on them.”

Golden, who has had a 21-year-career in education, was chosen from among 16 finalists from across the state. She teaches life skills, like cooking or using public transportation, to young adults at Springfield School District’s Community Transition Program.

Oregon Department

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