THE DALLES — The North Wasco County School District 21 (D21) has announced The Dalles High School (TDHS) teacher Leah Ferguson as the recipient of the Oregon Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) New Teacher of the Year award, highlighting Ferguson’s contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE) as well as her dedication to student success at TDHS.
Since being hired at TDHS in 2022, Feguson has led the graphic arts program, which, according to a press release, has since expanded to include a more diverse set of courses, offering flexibility that allows students at different skill levels to thrive while in the same class.
“Her commitment to hands-on learning has created an engaging and supportive environment and has drawn attention from students, staff, and the community,” said a press release.
TDHS Principal Kurt Evans commented on Ferguson’s impact outside of the classroom as well. “Because of her, the Haunted House is here — that’s her graphics art club that puts it on. There are hundreds of kids that come through this building now because of that haunted house, it’s really a community event that is now kind of a staple,” Evans said in the press release. “She’s also had her hand in connecting her students with opportunities to showcase their work in the community, such as designing the iconic annual Cherry Fest poster, and designing the ‘Hawk House’ food truck.”
According to the press release, Ferguson also took the initiative to help bring an Esports club to TDHS, securing funding for the team, as well as a permanent computer lab for the program. Volunteering to co-lead the Sources of Strength Program, Ferguson also serves as a class advisor, runs the yearbook and spearheads many spirit week activities.
The TDHS CTE Team: Charles Webber, Computer Sciences & Information Technology, Chelsea Beckner, Health Sciences, Lynn Helyer (back), Welding & Fabrication, Leah Feguson, Graphic Arts, Shawn Manciu (back), Construction, Taylor Alsheimer, Automotive/Mechanics. Not Pictured, Crystal Haggard, Culinary.
Contributed photo
“If you walk down to her classroom during our duty-free lunch, it’s packed with, like, 50 kids,” Evans said. Speaking on Ferguson’s connection with students, Evans said, “I was talking to our counselors, and they will have students come up to request class changes just so they can be in her class. Sometimes they just request ‘introduction to whatever’ with Leah, they just want to be in her class — students definitely feel they have a place and purpose with her,” Evans added.
According to the press release, “The ACTE Awards program recognizes educators who make significant contributions to the field of career and technical education. By celebrating individuals like Ferguson, ACTE aims to inspire and motivate educators to continue their invaluable work in equipping students with essential career skills.”
“I personally rarely make these sorts of nominations because I see it as a very high bar, but I cannot think of a more fitting candidate for the CTE New Teacher of the Year award,” Evans said.
“As the New Teacher of the Year, Ferguson joins a distinguished group of educators who have demonstrated excellence in CTE and a deep commitment to student success. Her recognition reflects the hard work, creativity, and dedication she brings to her classroom, and her students every day.
“North Wasco County School District congratulates Leah Ferguson on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to her continued contributions to the field of CTE,” said the press release.
Commented