Outstanding Educator Awards

Rebecca Sager
Moscow School District, Moscow 

Rebecca Sager exemplifies compassion, resilience and unwavering dedication to her students. Over the past year, she faced extraordinary challenges — from supporting families through hardship to helping her class cope with the death of a student. Through it all, she showed grace, empathy and leadership. Sager advocates fiercely for every student, fostering a safe, inclusive and caring classroom where every child is seen and supported. Her compassion and strength have made her a trusted partner to families and a pillar within the Moscow School District community.

Monique Jensen
Parma School District, Parma 

A lifelong educator and leader, Monique Jensen has shaped generations of students as both a fifth-grade teacher and high school principal. Known for her approachable leadership and genuine care, she creates learning environments built on curiosity, respect and community. Jensen celebrates each student’s achievements and offers steadfast guidance through challenges. Her influence extends far beyond academics — inspiring students to lead with empathy and confidence. Her dedication reflects the heart of education and the spirit of the Vandal community.

Doug Richards
Potlatch Junior-Senior High School, Potlatch 

For more than 25 years, Doug Richards has inspired students through his passion for music and education. As music director for the Potlatch School District, he brought music to life for thousands of students, instilling teamwork, creativity and confidence. Now serving as principal of Potlatch Junior-Senior High School, Richards continues to lead with enthusiasm and optimism. A proud Vandal alumnus, he models lifelong learning and community engagement, uplifting both students and staff through every challenge and success.

Christopher Johnson
Post Falls High School, Post Falls 

With more than four decades of teaching experience, Christopher Johnson has left an indelible mark on generations of students through his dual credit English courses. As an affiliate faculty member of U of I’s Department of English, he has introduced hundreds of students to college-level learning and critical inquiry. Johnson’s classes challenge students to think deeply and engage meaningfully with literature and ideas. His commitment to academic excellence and mentorship reflects the best of Idaho education and the Vandal spirit of curiosity and lifelong learning.

Chance Wilson
Lowell Scott Middle School, Boise 

For nearly 30 years, Chance Wilson has dedicated his career to teaching, mentoring and inspiring middle school students. A proud Vandal graduate, he teaches math, coding and pre-engineering while also serving as a coach, referee and mentor. Known for his kindness, humor and steady leadership, Wilson creates classrooms where students feel valued and challenged. His influence now spans generations, with former students returning to share how his encouragement shaped their lives. His commitment to excellence and community truly embodies the Vandal legacy.

Jeanette Humphreys
VandalQUEST Program, Moscow 

Through her work in U of I’s VandalQUEST program, Jeanette Humphreys has transformed lives by building confidence, independence and self-belief in every student she serves. She approaches education with quiet strength and deep compassion, creating spaces where students are seen, supported and challenged to grow. Humphreys’ dedication extends far beyond academics — she helps students rediscover their potential and find pride in their progress. Her impact is a testament to the power of patience, empathy and the enduring human connection at the heart of education.