Dr. Rebecca Eisenberg has been named Oregon's 2025 History Teacher of the Year by the prestigious Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. This remarkable achievement marks the first time a Lincoln High School educator has received this distinguished honor.

Dr. Eisenberg, who teaches International Baccalaureate History and Theory of Knowledge classes at Lincoln, exemplifies dedication both in and out of the classroom. While pursuing her PhD, she managed the demanding balance of full-time teaching and raising two elementary school-aged children—a testament to her extraordinary commitment to education and personal growth.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute's History Teacher of the Year program represents one of the most competitive recognitions in American education. Since 2004, the organization has honored more than 1,000 outstanding elementary, middle, and high school history teachers across all fifty states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools, and U.S. territories. State selection committees identify educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching America's past.

Dr. Eisenberg's recognition brings pride not only to Lincoln High School but to the entire Portland Public Schools district. Her achievement reflects the innovative teaching methods and dedication that make Portland's educational community shine on the national stage.

“Dr. Eisenberg, a Fulbright Scholar and international education facilitator, is among the most engaging and rigorous high school teachers I've encountered in my 30-year PPS career. She develops critically aware learners through primary source research, Socratic seminars, and strong writing instruction, modeling her passion for history and learning.” - Peyton Chapman, Principal, Lincoln High School.

For Portland families and education supporters, Dr. Eisenberg's recognition serves as a reminder of the outstanding educators working daily to inspire the next generation of informed citizens and critical thinkers.