Samuel Drinnon

Samuel Drinnon, the 2009 Oregon Substitute Teacher of the Year, was selected for his exceptional work as a substitute teacher in Woodburn. He is known for his use of humor “without thorns or putdowns.” He identifies potentially troublesome students and gives them special tasks. He also selects student assistants who help him to keep the class on task. Primary students love his polystyrene cup calculators. He was honored at a Woodburn School Board meeting and again at the Oregon legislature on Oregon Substitute Teacher Day.

Other finalists for Substitute Teacher of the Year 2009 were Phyllis Weigel, of Oregon City; Heidi Disrud, of Hubbard; Kaye Morris, of Salem; Maggie Carte, of Medford; Glinda Robertson, of McMinnville; Nancy Baier, of Salem; and Glenola “Lynne” Grant, of Milton-Freewater. The teachers were nominated by their schools as being outstanding substitute teachers who are called upon often to fill class-rooms. Their flexibility, competency, and winning attitudes were most often mentioned in the nomination letters sent in by principals, secretaries, and teachers.