TUMALO, OR -- A local school principal will have his housing paid for a year, thanks to OnPoint Credit Union. Tumalo Community School's Samuel Platt was awarded the first ever Gold Star Educator award. He was recognized for starting a district music program and his understanding of student needs.

Three other Oregon teachers, form Portland and Milwaukie, were also honored with the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education. Each of their schools, including Tumalo,  get $2,500, in addition to the winner getting one-year of rent or mortgage paid. 

“Educators have a profound impact on their students, as well as their entire community,” said Rob Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This year’s Educators of the Year respect their students as individuals and create educational experiences that truly connect and inspire them. We are honored to recognize these educators and know they will continue to make a difference for their students and our region.”

In the 14 years since the OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education campaign launched, it has awarded more than $650,000 in prizes to 313 local educators and schools. The 2023 campaign awarded an additional $193,000 to 21 more deserving public and private K-12 educators and schools.

Photo courtesy of OnPoint: (From left to right) Caryn Anderson, K-5 Educator of the Year winner; Lucas Dix, 6-8 Educator of the Year winner; Rob Stuart, President & CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union; Willie Williams, 9-12 Educator of the Year winner; Samuel Platt, Gold Star Educator of the Year winner.