We are so proud to share that Debra Sayre has been named High Desert Regional Teacher of the Year. Sayre is the lead teacher at the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council in La Pine. She teaches all subjects, including Special Education, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, and most recently Driver Education. COIC provides alternative learning opportunities for students aged 16 through 21 who are working to make up credits and return to their regular classrooms, earn their GED, and ultimately, receive their High School Diploma.
The award is presented by the Oregon Lottery in partnership with the Oregon Department of Education. Regional Teachers of the Year are nominated by students, colleagues, administrators, friends or family members. Regional winners were identified through a local nomination, application and selection process facilitated by the 19 Education Service Districts around the state.
“Almost all of her students live in poverty. When La Pine High School has a student who is not succeeding, they send them to COIC La Pine. Debra is currently serving 42 students and has a waiting list. Attendance is excellent, as the students gain confidence and know they can succeed. Debra makes all students feel welcome and helps them believe in their abilities,” Sayre’s nomination stated.
Nominations for this honor are assessed by a diverse panel of regional representatives on the attributes of leadership, instructional expertise, commitment to equity, community involvement, understanding of educational issues, vision and professional development.
“There are so many amazing teachers here in La Pine doing amazing things with our students and making such a huge change in their lives. It’s a huge honor to be recognized for just being one of those people who go out of their way to take care of our students because they are so worth our time and our effort,” said Sayre.
Sayre added that she plans to spend the $1,000 lottery award on updating supplies and equipment for students and the classroom.
“Debra is an amazing and dedicated educator and we are thrilled that her work is being recognized in this way. She is a testament to High Desert Education Service District’s mission to support students in life-long success,” said Kathy McCollum, HDESD’s former Director of Alternative Learning Options. Lora Nordquist has assumed this role for the 2024-25 school year.
