University of Idaho College of Education, Health and Human Sciences

Hey Vandals- what are you doing on Tuesday?

How about voting for Joe in the mascot challenge!

The 5th Annual Big Sky Mascot Challenge has returned‼️

Voting for every round will take place each Tuesday of August on ’s X, FB, & IG

Chance Wilson, of Lowell Scott Middle School in Meridian, ID, has been making a difference in the lives of students for over 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, Mr. 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," shared his nominator.

Thank you, Chance, and congratulations on being a 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator!

West Ada School District

Vandal students, alumni and employees: don't forget to nominate your Vandal Outstanding Educator! Nominate a K-12 educator, paraprofessional, administrator or coach here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Rebecca Sager, a kindergarten teacher at Lena Whitmore Elementary School in Moscow, ID, has made a significant impact.

"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. Mrs. 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," stated her nominator.

Congratulation, Rebecca, on being a reciptient of the 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator Award!

Moscow School District #281

Vandal students, alumni and employees: submit nominations for the 2026 Vandal Outstanding Educator award here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

A Vandal Outstanding Educator can be a teacher, paraprofessional, coach or an administrator, like Doug Richards, past Principal of Potlatch Jr/Sr High School, Potlatch, ID.

Doug's nominator said "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, Mr. 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."

Congratulations, Mr. Richards, on being a recipient of the 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator award.
Potlatch School District #285 Official

Vandal students, alumni and employees-nominate a Vandal Outstanding Educator here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Congratulations to our 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator recipient, Christopher Johnson, of Post Falls High School, Post Falls, ID.

"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 the University of Idaho’s Department of English, he has introduced hundreds of students to college-level learning and critical inquiry. Mr. 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," stated their nominator.

Congratulations, Mr. Johnson and thank you for being an outstanding educator!

Vandal students, alumni and employees: nominate for the 2026 Vandal Outstanding Educator award here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Post Falls High School Unofficial Post Falls School District #273

Last year, Monique Jensen, with Parma School District #137, Parma, Idaho, took home a Vandal Outstanding Educator Award.

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. Mrs. Jensen celebrates every 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. (As shared by her nominator).
Congratulations, Monique!

Nominate your favorite K-12 educator, administrator or coach here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Let's take a trip down memory lane and recognize our 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator Winners.

Jeanette Humphreys- VandalQUEST Program, Moscow, Idaho

Here is what Jeanette's nominator had to say:
Through her work in University of Idaho’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. Jeanette’s 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.
Moscow School District #281

Do you know an outstanding educator? Nominate them for the 2026 award here: https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Teachers shape the future by inspiring, educating and empowering the next generation. Their influence extends beyond the classroom, impacting students’ academic, social and emotional growth while supporting their overall well-being.

Each year, the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences celebrates outstanding educators across Idaho with the Vandal Outstanding Educator Award. We’re proud to recognize these individuals and all Idaho educators and their incredible work during a special Idaho Vandal football game celebration.

U of I students, alumni and employees: nominate a K-12 educator, administrator or coach who impacted your learning experience
https://forms.office.com/r/jKJibAk1YZ

Pictured below are out 2025 Vandal Outstanding Educator award recipients.