Established in honor of UW Professor Emeritus Thomas J. Pressly and his wife, Cameron, the prestigious prize recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching and a lasting impact on students’ understanding of history

Battle Ground Public Schools recently announced that Jonas Fridriksson, a U.S. history and world studies teacher at Battle Ground High School, has been named the 2026 recipient of the University of Washington’s Thomas J. and Cameron Pressly Endowed Prize for Outstanding History or Social Studies Teacher. This is the second time that Fridriksson has received the award.

Established in honor of UW Professor Emeritus Thomas J. Pressly and his wife, Cameron, the prestigious prize recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching and a lasting impact on students’ understanding of history. Nominated by 2025 Battle Ground High School graduate and current UW student Elizabeth McAleer, Fridriksson joins a distinguished group of educators recognized for their ability to bring history to life, inspire critical thinking and foster deep engagement with the past.

Wrote McAleer in her nomination, “Mr. Fridriksson consistently works to make learning fun for his students, even if it is in the grueling class that is AP U.S. History. He gives enticing lectures that often literally have him jumping up and down because he is so excited about what he is talking about. This, in turn, makes learning engaging and fun for all of his students.”

Fridriksson was formally recognized on May 13 at the UW Department of History’s annual Awards Day celebration, an event that highlights the academic and service achievements of students and educators.

Since joining Battle Ground High School in 1994, Fridriksson has been a beloved educator. In addition to his teaching duties, he has coached football and basketball, served as an adviser to the school’s National Honor Society and Model United Nations and coached Knowledge Bowl. In 2013, he was named the Teacher of the Year by the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce.

At Battle Ground High School, Fridriksson is known for his engaging classroom environment, dedication to academic excellence, and commitment to helping students think critically about the past and its connection to the present. His work in AP U.S. History and World Studies has inspired countless students to pursue deeper learning and civic engagement.

“He shows his students that history doesn’t always mean textbooks and dust. It’s really about active conversations and learning from the past to inform our present. In making learning fun, his students are able to walk away with a greater understanding of our history in America and are prepared to have the hard conversations necessary to improve our country’s future,” McAleer said.

Information provided by the Battle Ground School District.