Teena Vanderholm’s journey as an educator is a testament to her passion for learning and her unwavering commitment to her students. As a math and science teacher at Washtucna High School, she has spent the last four years transforming her classroom into a space where students not only learn but thrive. Teena's dedication to fostering student growth and a love for learning extends beyond math and science, reaching into the very heart of educational equity in rural schools. “I believe every student, no matter their background or location, deserves a chance to succeed, and I want my classroom to be a place where they feel seen and empowered,” she says.

Understanding the unique challenges that rural schools face, including limited resources, lack of access to advanced educational programs, and the isolation of many students, Teena has worked tirelessly to bridge these gaps. Her work is particularly important in Washtucna, a small community in Adams County with high poverty levels. By creating learning experiences that are meaningful and accessible to students of all backgrounds, Teena ensures that every student in her classroom feels valued and supported. Her commitment to equity is evident in her mastery-based learning approach, where students are given the opportunity to learn at their own pace, ensuring all students are able to succeed and reach their full potential.

Teena’s innovative teaching methods are focused on mastery-based learning, integrating modern classroom practices that blend online, small-group and self-paced learning. One of her standout lessons, the Nuclear Science Unit in Chemistry, highlights her commitment to student-centered learning. By partnering with an Ag Science teacher, Teena helped students explore nuclear science through hands-on projects and a field trip to the Hanford Nuclear Plant. “I wanted my students to take ownership of their learning, to explore their own interests within the subject,” she says, emphasizing the importance of student agency in education.

Her impact goes beyond the classroom. Teena has played a pivotal role in promoting community engagement through events like Math Night, which brings families together for an evening of fun and learning. “Math Night is a chance for students to share their knowledge with their families, to make math something that’s accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” Teena explains. This event exemplifies her commitment to building connections between students’ academic experiences and their families, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.

Teena’s colleagues and students are quick to praise her for her hard work, kindness, and ability to inspire. Principal Staci Gloyn, notes, “Teena is the best kind of teacher. She’s humble, kind and unafraid to take on challenges. She consistently pushes her students to be the best they can be and is always seeking to learn and grow herself.” Staci also highlights Teena’s leadership and her ability to adapt her practices based on student feedback, ensuring that her classroom remains a place where students feel supported and motivated.

Students appreciate her hands-on approach to teaching. “Mrs. Vanderholm’s room is a safe haven for many of us,” write Kalea Herold and Ella Greenwalt, two of Teena’s students. “She’s always willing to go above and beyond to help us understand concepts in both math and science. Her classroom is always inviting and encouraging.”

For Teena, teaching is about more than just imparting knowledge — it’s about fostering a sense of curiosity and community. Her dedication to her students, both inside and outside the classroom, has made her an indispensable part of Washtucna. Her recognition as NEWESD 101’s 2025 Regional Teacher of the Year reflects her tireless efforts to promote educational equity and create lasting change not only in her students' lives and her local community, but also as an inspiration for rural communities across Washington state.

Overseen by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), the Regional Teacher of the Year program recognize excellence in teaching.

Winners are selected by a committee based on nominations from peers, supervisors, students and parents received by a regional coordinator at each of the state’s nine ESDs.

While contending for the title of State Teacher of the Year, regional winners engage in year-long professional learning, leadership and advocacy training, and meet with state and national education leaders.