There’s Good News: Bend teacher named runner-up in OnPoint prize, awarded $5,000

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A Bend Senior High teacher is being recognized in OnPoint Community Credit Union’s 2026 Prize for Excellence in Education.

Heidi Friesen, who teaches chemistry and physics at Bend Senior High School, was named the 9-12 Educator of the Year runner-up.

Friesen will receive a $5,000 cash prize, and Bend Senior High will get a $1,500 donation for school resources and supplies.

OnPoint announced four Educators of the Year and four runners-up in this year’s program. The top awards went to Ashley Reich of Holt Elementary School in Eugene, Mikael Benson of Harrison Park Middle School in Portland, Stephanie Fitzgerald of Colton High School, and Kali Dalton of Coweeman Middle School in Kelso, Washington.

Each Educator of the Year will have their mortgage or rent paid for one year and will also receive a $2,500 school donation.

OnPoint says the annual program has awarded more than $1 million to more than 350 local educators and schools since 2010.