Katelyn Dover, a first grade teacher at John Tuck Elementary, has been named one of 13 regional “teachers of the year” for 2020 in the Oregon Teacher of the Year Program,

Each of the regional winners will receive a $500 award from the Oregon Lottery and be considered for the honor of 2020 Oregon Teacher of the Year.

The selection process included applications, testimonials and letters of support from principals, superintendents, colleagues and students and applicants were chosen based on leadership, instructional expertise, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, professional development and vision, according to a press release.

“Today’s educators must be equipped with more skills than ever before to meet the unique and important needs of each student they serve,” Oregon Department of Education Director Colt Gill said in a press release.“Recognizing these outstanding regional teachers is a privilege and their commitment to the calling of teaching deserves our thanks.”