Clatskanie, OR – The Oregon Small Schools Association (OSSA) is proud to announce that Kayleen Jones has been named its 2025-26 Teacher of the Year. Kayleen is a teacher at Clatskanie Middle High School, part of the Clatskanie School District, located in Clatskanie Oregon, in Columbia County. 

Dr. Danielle Hudson her superintendent stated that : “Kayleen has completely revitalized the Lifeskills program at CMHS. She has created a highly structured, student-centered learning environment that emphasizes independence, communication, and community engagement. Her classroom is a model of inclusive practice—one where students are empowered to pursue academic and functional goals that align with their individual strengths and aspirations. Under Kayleen’s leadership, students in her program are thriving. Kayleen also founded and sponsors the district’s first inclusive cheerleading team, giving students of all abilities a visible role in school spirit events and assemblies. Her commitment to inclusion extends beyond the classroom—she collaborates with general education teachers, coaches, and activity advisors to ensure all students have meaningful access to every part of school life. Kayleen is known among colleagues for her creativity, professionalism, and relentless positivity. She regularly designs differentiated lessons that integrate assistive technology, sensory supports, and hands-on learning experiences, and she mentors’ paraprofessionals to build strong instructional teams. She has also played a key role in developing transition activities for students preparing for postsecondary life, including work-based learning opportunities and community engagement projects.”

OSSA recognizes one teacher each year who excels in his/her teaching assignment. Criteria include integrity, leadership, commitment to community, scholarship and student achievement. The OSSA Board of Directors is very happy to honor Kayleen Jones this year celebrating all that she has accomplished.

Ms. Jones will receive her OSSA 2025-26 Teacher of the Year award at the COSA Winter Conference at the Salem Convention Center in January 2026.

OSSA serves as an advocate for the benefits of rural education and small schools across the state. For more information, visit the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators website click the link to the Oregon Small Schools Association@ www.oregonssa.org.