Redmond, Ore. – Ridgeview High School’s veteran English teacher Amanda Felton has earned a spot among the ten finalists in the 2026 Heroes of the Classroom contest, a national program that honors K‑12 educators who make a lasting impact on students and their communities.
Felton, who has taught English for 25 years, currently works with senior Language Arts students, guiding many first‑generation college applicants toward higher education. Beyond the classroom, she runs the school’s Key Club, volunteers locally, attends school games and concerts, and even opened her home to a student in need.
The contest, now in its third year, is run in partnership with Campus Multimedia. It invites public voting to determine one grand‑prize winner and nine first‑prize winners from a field selected from thousands of entries across the country. Voting opened Thursday and will run online through October 22 at 11:59:59 a.m. Eastern Time.
Community support and nomination
Jill McNulty, a fellow educator, nominated Felton, praising her dedication. “Mandy truly represents what it means to be an educator,” McNulty wrote. “She pushes students to think and grow for themselves, all while creating an environment that feels safe and comfortable.”
Prize details
The contest offers more than $50,000 in total prizes. The grand‑prize winner will receive $10,000, a $5,000 donation to their school, and a year’s supply of Kleenex tissues. Each of the nine first‑prize winners will receive a $1,000 Costco Shop Card for themselves and a $1,000 card for their school. Nominators of the grand‑prize and first‑prize winners also receive a $1,000 Costco Shop Card.
Organizer’s perspective
Karl Mawhinney, CEO and founder of Campus Multimedia, emphasized the program’s purpose. “Every year, we’re reminded just how many teachers are doing extraordinary things for their students and school communities,” Mawhinney said. “The Heroes of the Classroom Contest gives communities a chance to shine a light on those individuals and celebrate the lasting impact they have every day. We’re proud to help bring their stories to a national audience and give people a meaningful way to say thank you.”
Public voting will determine the final winners, with the announcement slated for mid‑November. Residents can cast their votes and learn more about the contest at HeroesoftheClassroom.com.
Amanda Felton’s recognition underscores the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of Redmond’s youth, especially those navigating the college‑application process for the first time. Her commitment to both academic excellence and community service exemplifies the values that the Heroes of the Classroom contest seeks to celebrate.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
