Three local educators have been nominated for the national LifeChanger of the Year award.
Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership. The nominees for the 2024-25 award include two educators from Richmond Community Schools and an employee of the Port Huron Area School District.
Richmond Middle School art teacher Megan LaZare was nominated by Candess Cunningham, a parent of a student, for her generosity and commitment to students.
“Mrs. LaZare spends countless hours of her own time trying to raise money for her classroom art supplies,” Cunningham said. “She is extremely giving, and all the students just love her. Her exemplary efforts are what makes for a wonderful teacher. Richmond Community Schools is very lucky to have her.”
Molly Schack, the band director at Richmond Middle and High schools, was also nominated by Cunningham. The parent said Schack inspires students with her passion for music and brings out their best performances.
“Mrs. Schack is said to be one of the best, if not, the best band directors in the state,” Cunningham said. “What she brings out of these students is pure amazement. She has given them true purpose and excitement for coming to school every day. They just love music and truly want to bring their best for her. She is amazing.”
Sherry Thompson, assistant cook/manager at Holland Woods Middle School in Port Huron, was nominated by her colleague, Patrice Foster.
“Sherry is not just a food service worker. I like to think that she is a counselor to students/staff and family. She go above and beyond to help students, she will work in any area that the school needs her to. She has a high impact on students, staff, as well as family,” Foster said.
“Kids are always asking her to visit their games to watch them play. She loves making people smile. Feeding kids and making the food look like a home-cooked meal is her specialty. She loves taking care of the staff, making sure they enjoy the lunches, as well. Coworkers love being around Ms. Thompson.”
The trio is among 10 educators from Michigan nominated for the award. Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Seventeen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2024-2025 school year.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. One grand prize winner will receive $10,000 to be shared with their school or district. Four grand prize finalists will receive $5,000. Ten LifeChanger award winners will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school or district. One Spirit Award winner will be given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district. One Spotlight Award will be given to a nominee in a specific discipline. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
To be considered for an award, nominees must:
• Make a positive impact on the lives of students
• Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture and pride
• Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
• Possess a proven record of professional excellence
• Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
Since 2011, the program has recognized and rewarded more than 8,500 K-12 teachers, administrators and school employees in 2,300-plus school districts. The program has awarded over $790,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools.
Students, parents, community members, colleagues, family and friends can learn more about celebrating and supporting the nominees by visiting lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit.
For more information about the LifeChanger of the Year award, visit lifechangeroftheyear.com.
