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Oakboro Choice STEM School head custodian Caylee Thompson has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-25 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.
Thompson was nominated by a colleague, Karen Nixon, for her dedication and investment in her students’ futures, serving as an inspiring example of the power of education.
Thompson has made a profound impact on her students through genuine care, guidance and positive connections. Since her first day, she has built strong relationships with students, many of whom require extra support, by showing a deep interest in their success and well-being.
Thompson actively participates in school activities, encouraging students to make positive choices and praising them when they do. Her efforts have fostered a nurturing school climate for both staff and students.
When Thompson transitioned to a new position in Stanly County Schools, her colleagues were sad to see her go, but excited for her new endeavors. Despite her promotion, she continues to check in on her former students and the school, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to their success.
“The three words I would use to describe Caylee are caring, fair, and dependable,” said Nixon.
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,500 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded more than $790,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
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.
A grand prize winner will receive $10,000 to be shared with their school/district.
Four finalists will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
Ten LifeChanger Award winners will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
One Spirit Award is 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/district.
A Spotlight Award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2025. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees.
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; and
• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.