Lebanon-area teachers advance in 'America's Favorite Teacher' contest, eye $25,000 for school projects

Three mid-valley educators are vying for a national spotlight — and a $25,000 prize they say would flow directly into their classrooms and campuses — as the “America’s Favorite Teacher” competition approaches a key cutoff at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 9. Brooklyn McElroy, a science teacher at Lebanon High School, is currently second in her group in round three of nine elimination rounds.

Amber Arceo-Bigoni, who teaches agriculture at Sweet Home High School, is sixth in her group, and Serenity Wilson, an elementary teacher at Hawthorne, is first in hers. The competition serves as a fundraiser for The Planetary Society, which supports the advancement of space science and exploration.

According to the rules, voters can cast one free vote each day or donate to the cause for additional votes. Finalists receive not only the cash prize but also a trip to Hawaii, a feature in Reader’s Digest, and a motivational assembly at their school from Bill Nye “the Science Guy.” McElroy said she would put the $25,000 toward rebuilding Lebanon High’s Heath Stadium, which was recently demolished because of structural damage.

“This historic space hosts football games, track meets, graduations and community events,” she said, adding that she wants to help preserve “a safe, meaningful gathering place full of memories and school pride for future generations.” She described teaching as a way to spark curiosity and build confidence while preparing students for a range of futures, from engineering and nursing to public service and entrepreneurship.

Arceo-Bigoni said she would split the award between student scholarships and new equipment for her engine and hydraulics lab, and she hopes to use it to help launch a heavy equipment operator program. “The average farmer in America is over 75 years old,” she said.

“We need new generations of tradesmen, farmers, ranchers, researchers and engineers to feed the world. I can help start a small drop in that big pond.” Wilson said she would dedicate the prize to making her school’s playground more accessible and to buying supplies for students who cannot afford them.

“When I was in school, I needed a safe space; I needed a place to go where I felt comfortable and seen,” she said. “I became a teacher because I want to be a safe space for children. I want to make a difference, even if it is one small change.” Round three concludes Thursday evening, with six more elimination rounds to follow on the way to naming America’s Favorite Teacher.