Ridgeview teacher Amanda Felton named finalist in national contest

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Ridgeview High School teacher Amanda Felton has been named one of 10 finalists nationwide for the 2026 Kleenex Heroes of the Classroom Contest. Public voting opened Thursday to determine the grand prize winner from a field selected from thousands of entries across the country.

Now in its third year, the national contest is conducted in partnership with Campus Multimedia to honor K-12 teachers who make a lasting impact on their students and school communities. Voting will determine one grand prize winner and nine first-prize winners.

Felton has taught English for 25 years and currently works with senior Language Arts students, guiding first-generation college applicants. Beyond her classroom responsibilities, she runs the school's Key Club, volunteers in the community, attends school games, plays and concerts and opened her home to a student in need.

Jill McNulty nominated Felton for the award, citing her dedication to her students.

“Mandy truly represents what it means to be an educator,” McNulty wrote in her submission. “She pushes students to think and grow for themselves, all while creating an environment that feels safe and comfortable.”

The contest features more than $50,000 in total prizes. The grand prize winner will receive $10,000, while their school receives a $5,000 donation and a year's supply of Kleenex tissues. Nine first-prize winners will each receive a $1,000 Costco Shop Card for themselves and $1,000 for their school and nominators of the grand and first-prize winners will also receive a $1,000 Costco Shop Card.

Karl Mawhinney is the CEO and founder of Campus Multimedia. Mawhinney spoke about the recognition program's goal to highlight educators across the country.

“Every year, we're reminded just how many teachers are doing extraordinary things for their students and school communities,” Mawhinney said. “The Heroes of the Classroom Contest gives communities a chance to shine a light on those individuals and celebrate the lasting impact they have every day. We're proud to help bring their stories to a national audience and give people a meaningful way to say thank you.”

Public voting takes place online through Oct. 22 at 11:59:59 a.m. Eastern Time. The contest winner will be announced in mid-November.

To learn more and vote, visit HeroesoftheClassroom.com.