LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Debbi Haduch was nominated by her principal, Ricky Cottrell.

Mrs. Haduch is a LifeChanger because she epitomizes what it means to be an educator in today's world. About 10 years ago, she retired and moved from California to Arizona. When she arrived, she found that her desire to work with children was still burning. Initially, she began substitute teaching to fill the void, but over time, she found that it was not enough. For the past nine years, she has been on the district staff teaching the most challenging students. Even as her body gave into fatigue, she came to work each day and loved every child, no matter their situation, behavior, or history. She built bonds, friendships, mentored, and provided a model for other teachers to learn from.

"This year, she has decided to retire from teaching as her body is no longer able to keep up with the rigors of teaching. However, she has already informed me that she is willing to come back at the beginning of next year to help mentor her replacement," said Cottrell. "She gives every moment to our children, and while her body is not cooperating the way she would hope, her mind is still firmly entrenched in being an educator. Now twice retired, Mrs. Haduch deserves recognition for everything she does."

Comments (4)