MONMOUTH, Ore. — Sonali Salgado Soto, a Western Oregon University alum of the FLEX Program (Flexible Licensure Educator Pathways), and Master’s of Education Scholar programs, has been nominated for the 2026–2027 Oregon Teacher of the Year. This nomination celebrates Salgado Soto’s extraordinary dedication to her students, their families, and the broader community she serves.
Colleagues and community members who have worked alongside Salgado Soto recognize that this honor speaks to her commitment and excellence in education. Her journey from scholar to nominee for Oregon’s highest teaching accolade highlights her individual achievements and the positive impact of the educator preparation programs she represents.
Salgado Soto currently teaches Spanish at Salem-Keizer Public Schools and provides support for multilingual students and families. She began her educational career as a parent assistant working with migrant families, helping parents access essential resources and educational opportunities for their children. This valuable experience motivated her to return to college as a non-traditional student, where she pursued a career in education and leadership.
Now completing her graduate studies in Organizational Leadership, she is passionate about advocating for migrant and Spanish-speaking families to ensure they have access to higher education and community resources.
The Flexible Licensure Educator Pathway at Western Oregon University is designed for students who need flexible options to degree completion, whether they’re transferring from another college, working as an instructional assistant, teaching on an emergency license, or living far from campus, Western welcomes students from all backgrounds and circumstances who are ready to make a difference in their communities.
The FLEX Pathway meets students where they are and honors the cultural wealth students bring and connects with local schools, classrooms, and families through meaningful, place-based partnerships. Western has built every aspect of this pathway with accessibility and flexibility at the core because students are balancing real life.
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About Western Oregon University
Western Oregon University, established in Monmouth in 1856, proudly stands as Oregon’s oldest public university. Hosting around 4,000 students, Western embodies a mid-sized, NCAA Division II institution, with approximately 80% of its students hailing from within the state. Notably, its diverse student body comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, veterans, and non-traditional learners. Western stands as the preferred campus in Oregon for those pursuing an enriching education within a nurturing, student-focused environment, characterized by faculty-led instruction. Where YOU belong.