Golden shares experiences, whirlwind schedule as Teacher of the Year

It has been a year of firsts and amazing connections for 2026 Oregon Teacher of the Year, Sally Golden.
 
“I have been gifted the most amazing year of the very best professional development and plan to regift the skills, knowledge, and wisdom I glean by serving my students, team, community and state to the very best of my ability,” said Golden of her recent engagements and experiences.
 
To start the year, Golden joined a number of community members and business leaders during the State of the City Address by Mayor Sean VanGordon. She was among those highlighted during the speech and the important achievements in our community.
 
In February, Golden joined a group of 56 State Teachers of the Year for the National Teacher of the Year Program Orientation. State and national teachers met to collaborate, network, enjoy presentations, and professional development workshops. The group travelled together and spent three days at Google Headquarters in Santa Clara, California building connections, learning about innovative technology, and listening to inspirational educators. 
 
“We spent one full morning with brilliant education-focused Google techs who shared what Google is doing to make AI a tool, not a crutch, for educators and students, and how they want this technology to be equitably available to all students,” explained Golden. “We learned more about how to use Gemini to create curricular materials to enhance learning and provide more access to students who learn in different ways.” 
 
The teachers participated in a vibe coding workshop at Google, and practiced typing words to guide Gemini toward creating the final product they desired. For example, teachers used Gemini to create a game to practice goal-setting skills for students. 
 
Teachers also participated in filmed, professional media interviews during which teachers were asked questions about their Teacher of the Year experiences and how they use Google tools in their classrooms and programs.
 
Teachers were also paired with other teachers in their focus area and shared Lightning Lessons, showcasing the types of skills we teach our students (under 10 minutes). Golden chose to do an interactive activity on Preferences, Interests, Needs & Strength (PINS) and how these activities lead students to make their own individualized 1-Page Profiles.
 
In early March, Golden delivered a presentation at the Oregon Statewide Transition Conference. The title of her presentation was "Transition Teaming:  Blending Team Member Strengths with Student-Centered Processes to Provide Excellent Transition Services." 

At the end of Spring Break, Golden was the Game Ball Starter and was recognized as the Oregon Teacher of the Year during the Portland Trail Blazers home game against Milwaukee Bucks on March 25. 
 
Upcoming events include throwing out a ceremonial first pitch at a Duck Baseball game on Sunday, April 12, speaking at a UO College of Education Teacher Recognition Event on Friday, May 15, and being featured in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Starlight Parade on Saturday, June 6.
 
If you can, please consider supporting Sally Golden in any of her upcoming events. If you cannot attend any event, please support her Facebook channel facebook.com/sallygoldenOTOY2026.
 
Good Luck on all your engagements and events Sally!

Pictured above are Sally Golden and her husband, Judd Golden, at the Wildish Theater in downtown Springfield during the 2026 State of the City Address.