Nicole Butler-Hooton has taught second and fourth grade in Oregon for 15 years. This year she has followed her passion of coaching teachers and is currently a Mentor TOSA/Instructional Coach in the Bethel School District. She was named the 2021 Oregon Teacher of the Year, becoming the first Indigenous teacher in Oregon to earn this recognition. Butler-Hooton is a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians- Chetco Band (Oregon) and the San Carlos Apache Tribe (Arizona). A first-generation college graduate, she values making connections with students, families, and the school community, while centering equity and cultural competency in her teaching. Nicole holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with a focus on Ethnic Studies and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Oregon, where she was part of the Sapsik'ʷałá Teacher Education Program. She is currently enrolled in an Ed.D program through Walden University specializing in Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction.

Bio from: https://grow.oregoned.org/facilitators/nicole-butler-hooton