Kim Neiswanger, top center wearing a light green shirt, poses with current and former students who’ve published their own books for Ruch’s yearly Author’s Reception. Medford School District photo

The Oregon Council of Teachers of English have selected educator Kim Neiswanger of Ruch Outdoor Community School as the recipient of the 2025 Oregon Excellence in Teaching English Language Arts Award. 

The accolade honors educators who demonstrate dedication, innovation and effectiveness in teaching English and language arts.

“Kim represents the heart of what we strive for at Ruch; education that is rooted in relationships and initiative,” said Ryan King, principal of Ruch Outdoor Community School. “She inspires her students and colleagues to express their most authentic self in a variety of ways.”

Margaret Perrow, a professor at Southern Oregon University, nominated Neiswanger for the award, praising her commitment to education as well as her leadership. 

Neiwanger’s project-based literacy instruction has been recognized statewide and she’s shared her experience at professional gatherings across Oregon such as during Southern Oregon University panel discussions, the Holistic Teaching and Learning Conference and Literary Ashland. 

Her work was also spotlighted in a webinar with the Oregon Department of Education and WestEd, supporting the state’s Early Literacy Framework. 

Neiswanger’s award will be featured in the upcoming Chalkboard publication and the Oregon Council of Teachers of English website at oregoncouncilofteachersofenglish.wildapricot.org.