Every parent knows the impact a great educator can have on a child’s life. The teacher who helps students believe in themselves. The counselor who creates a safe space during difficult moments. The educator who stays late, shows up early and finds creative ways to help students thrive.
OnPoint Community Credit Union is celebrating four exceptional educators from Oregon and Southwest Washington through its 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards.
The annual program, now in its 17th year, recognizes educators who go above and beyond to support students, strengthen school communities and inspire the next generation. Since launching in 2010, the program has awarded more than $1 million to local educators and schools.
The 2026 Educators of the Year each have their mortgage or rent paid for a year and receive a $2,500 donation to their schools for classroom resources and supplies.
“Great educators do much more than teach lessons. They encourage students to believe in themselves and create meaningful connections that last far beyond the classroom,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer of OnPoint. “This year’s honorees demonstrate extraordinary dedication, compassion and leadership, and we are proud to celebrate the lasting impact they have on their students, schools and communities.”
Meet the 2026 Educators of the Year
Ashley Reich, K-5 Educator of the Year
4th Grade Teacher, Holt Elementary School, Eugene, Ore.
Ashley Reich believes students learn best when they feel safe, valued and excited to come to school each day. During her 20-year teaching career, much of it spent in high-needs schools, she has focused on building strong relationships with students and ensuring every child feels accepted and included.
At Bertha Holt Elementary, Reich founded the school’s student council for fourth- and fifth-graders, giving students opportunities to develop leadership skills and use their voices in meaningful ways. She also partners with fellow teachers, counselors and administrators to identify students in need of winter clothing. Together, the team has helped provide nearly 1,000 coats to students over the years.
Mikael Benson, 6-8 Educator of the Year
Math and Gardening Teacher, Harrison Park Middle School, Portland, Ore.
Students at Harrison Park Middle School know Mikael Benson for his humor, quirky outfits and energetic classroom presence. But behind the fun is a deeply intentional teaching style designed to help students feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes and learning through the process.
Benson works hard to create an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels supported. Beyond the classroom, he revitalized the school’s outdoor learning garden, turning it into a hands-on learning space where students explore science, teamwork and environmental stewardship.
Last year, Benson organized a plant sale that raised more than $6,000 for the school garden program, the most the school ever raised in a single year.
Stephanie Fitzgerald, 9-12 Educator of the Year
Mathematics, Leadership and Education 101 Teacher, Colton High School, Ore.
For Stephanie Fitzgerald, math is about much more than formulas and procedures. Her classroom focuses on problem-solving, perseverance and helping students connect math to everyday life.
Students in Fitzgerald’s classes tackle hands-on projects like simulating the car-buying process or designing jewelry, helping them understand how math applies beyond the classroom.
Fitzgerald also helped create an “Education 101” course for students interested in pursuing careers in teaching. In 2023, she began a second master’s degree to expand dual-credit math opportunities for students, while also serving as a leadership teacher, drama coach, junior class advisor and mentor for new educators.
Kali Dalton, Gold Star Educator of the Year
Counselor, Coweeman Middle School, Kelso, Wash.
Kali Dalton knew from an early age that she wanted to work in education and make a meaningful impact on students’ lives. As a middle school counselor, she focuses on helping students feel safe, supported and heard.
Dalton has played a key role in expanding social and emotional learning resources at her school, helping develop lessons now available to all students. She also helped launch “Coffee with the Counselor” for parents, created a school mentorship program and led efforts to develop the school’s “Menu of Services” resource guide.
She says her goal is to be a consistent and compassionate adult that students can rely on.
Learn more about the 2026 winners.
A legacy of supporting educators and students
In addition to honoring educators, the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also provides funding for school programs through its Community Builder awards.
This year, five schools across Oregon and Southwest Washington received grants for projects designed to enrich their school communities, including community gardens, makerspaces, arts programs and college exploration opportunities. Learn more about this year’s Community Builder Award winners.
OnPoint was founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, and the organization says supporting education remains central to its mission today. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
