OEA Vice President Johanna Vaandering

Johanna “Hanna” Vaandering, a Physical Education teacher from Ridgewood Elementary in the Beaverton School District was elected OEA Vice President in April, 2009. Prior to her election as OEA Vice President, Hanna has served as Beaverton Education Association President, OEA Region I Vice President and as Pacific Regional Director for the National Council of Urban Education Association.   

Hanna taught elementary physical education for 17 years at Ridgewood before her election as President of the Beaverton Education Association (BEA). While at Ridgewood, Hanna started a successful rhythms program to help her students understand the importance of movement and dance.  The most rewarding aspect of her seventeen years at Ridgewood was having past students come by the school and tell her “you made a difference in my life”. 

 Vaandering’s experience with OEA started early in her career as a building representative. “Advocating for those who make a difference in the lives of our students on a daily basis made me understand the importance of our union,” said Vaandering. After serving on her first bargaining team, Hanna was elected to the BEA Executive Committee and then served as Vice President prior to becoming President. Assuring the rights of each and every member are protected and advocating for stable and adequate funding are top priorities for Vaandering as OEA Vice President.

Hanna was born and raised in Washington County, she enjoys traveling, but is proud to call Oregon home. A graduate of Pacific University in Forest Grove, Hanna was a two-time All-American and Academic All-American catcher for the lady Boxers.  Scuba diving, water skiing and spending time with family and friends are ways in which Hanna likes to spend her free time.