LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Wendy AhYou

Position: Custodian
School: Sage International School - Middleton
School District: Sage International Network of Schools
City, State: Middleton, ID

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Wendy AhYou was nominated by her superintendent, Andy Johnson.

"I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Wendy AhYou for the LifeChanger Award. Wendy is a beacon of positivity, kindness, and unwavering dedication at our school, and her impact on our community cannot be overstated. Wendy has changed my life, the lives of the staff, and the lives of children at our school," said Johnson.

"Wendy works at a K-10 (growing to K-12) public charter school in Middleton, Idaho. I have known and sometimes worked alongside Wendy for nearly two years. In a career spanning 24 years in the United States Army and nearly 16 years in schools, I have rarely met someone as genuinely warm, empathetic, and kind as Wendy Ahyou. She is an extraordinary person," said Johnson.

"Wendy's unwavering dedication to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere is extraordinary. Wendy consistently goes above and beyond her duties by keeping the school immaculately clean and radiating positivity through her winning smile and cheerful disposition," said Johnson. "Wendy has a unique ability to uplift the spirits of everyone around her, whether it be a simple smile, sharing a light-hearted laugh, or offering a comforting hug. For example, Wendy seeks me out on my visits to the school to hug me and offer her desk in her custodian's closet for my use. She put a tiny desk in there for me when she caught me multiple times working there sitting on an overturned bucket (a private workspace in a busy school is difficult to find). Wendy notices. She acts. She makes people's days better."

"One of the most remarkable aspects of Wendy's influence is how she gives advice, which she generously shares with those seeking it. Her insightful guidance has provided comfort, inspiration, and a sense of purpose to me and many students and staff. Through this, Wendy has helped to foster an environment of open-mindedness, care, and personal growth that helps us meet our mission of being an inclusive learning community."

"What truly sets Wendy apart is her profound understanding of the unique needs of each person she meets," said Johnson. "She is extraordinarily empathetic and possesses an innate ability to identify those who may require extra care and love, offering them compassion and support. Through this, Wendy creates an atmosphere of inclusion, acceptance, and belonging felt by all who enter our school. I truly believe that Wendy has directly impacted the sense of belonging that staff and students feel at our school."

"Beyond her role at the school, Wendy extends her nurturing to her own extended family, demonstrating the same care and concern that she shows to each member of our school community. This commitment to nurturing relationships underscores her genuine selflessness."

"Wendy is a shining example of what it means to be a LifeChanger. Wendy's contributions, both seen and felt, have transformed our school into a place of inclusion, acceptance, and growth. She embodies the values of compassion, dedication, and genuine care this award seeks to recognize. I give my strongest recommendation for Wendy AhYou. She is a LifeChanger, and I believe she deserves this honor," said Johnson.

Comments (27)

Janelle Posted over a year ago

Wendy makes me feel like family every time I see her. She is a bright spot in this world and am grateful to know her!

Dani Zwolfer Posted over a year ago

Wendy brings out the best in all of us. It is a pleasure and an honor to work along side her.

Kristy Scott Posted over a year ago

Wendy makes my days brighter. I look forward to her "good morning!" when I arrive at work. She is the kindest person I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Wendy is also the hardest worker. She takes care of our school like it's her baby. Without Wendy and the compassionate work she does, our school would not function at the level that it does. I am proud to work with Wendy! I appreciate her compassion, words of encouragement and uplifting advice.

Darci Stelzner Posted over a year ago

Wendy is a rock in our school community. She is loved and respected by staff, students, and parents. She always has a kind comment, words of inspiration, and an offer of help. Her giving spirit radiates and our school is better because of her.

Heidi Hagman Posted over a year ago

Wendy is one of those people that brings joy to all around her. Each person in her presence automatically feels cared for and important. This is especially valuable for the students lucky enough to attend the school where she works. She makes everyone feel known and loved. Even as one of the busiest people at our school, she stops what she is doing to offer help to others. She is a shining example of how to be a good human being to everyone around her. By her actions alone, she is teaching our students so much about life and how to make a difference in their community! She is a critical member of our staff, and we all feel so very fortunate to work with her. She has been through some tough challenges in her personal life, and never fails to shine with positivity and strength. She truly is family to all that know her and I highly recommend her for this award.

Shirleen Pierce Posted over a year ago

I posted something earlier, but never got to express my full all that I wanted to say, so please accept this additional post. Please accept my heartfelt congratulations for being nominated for life-changing award of the year. I am unable to comprehend how you managed, working effectively, as well as helping prepare your father for the next life. I witnessed you enthusiastically coming through your parents home door after your work shift was over. If you were ever stepping out of your comfort zone by helping with the personal care of your father, it never showed. You are a true example of never showing self limits. You press on with love, compassion, and countless deeds of concern. You inspired me, and the entire family, encouraging others along their path. If anyone ever deserved this award, it would be Wendy.

Austin Ambrose Posted over a year ago

Wendy is the soul of the school. She looks after everyone's well being and is the first to offer support to anyone who needs it. She is often behind the scenes ensuring that the school is in its best shape to support the learning and activities for students. Her care for the community is impossible to miss. She makes sure each person is seen and heard, developing genuine relationships with all members of the community. She cares, and does it because that's the kind of person she is.

La’a beatty Posted over a year ago

Wendy is the definition of selfless she makes everyone feel so good about themselves and never lets you leave a day without a smile. She is always happy and goes out of her way to help the people around her! she is so deserving of this award because i know she has helped change so many peoples and kids lives doing what she loves.

Dallin Short Posted over a year ago

Wendy is such a selfless, loving, and kind hearted person! Always looking for ways to help and serve. She always makes everyone around her feel a sense of belonging. There is no one I would recommend more for this award!

marni short Posted over a year ago

Love Wendy!! So excited that she has been nominated! We live in Arizona, but everytime we come to visit, she waits on us hand and foot and makes everyone feel so special! She’s constantly making meals and playing games with everyone. I love how she is great at caring for her parents too. I’m not at her job, but I know that they love her. Because in the community while we are there, everyone seems to know her. I hope she gets it. She totally deserves it!

Brady Short Posted over a year ago

I love Wendy!! She is such a great person to be around. Always so happy, so uplifting, and always so excited to see my family and I. A award well deserved!!

Collin S Posted over a year ago

When I think of Wendy I think of someone who is positive, out-going, loving, willing to serve and selfless. I have so many fond memories of Wendy, if there is anyone that deserves this, it’s Wendy!

Miki Ah You Posted over a year ago

The way Wendy is described here is so accurate and beautifully worded by Mr. Johnson. She really is the epitome of positivity and kindness on every level. Her patience is unmatched and her smile is contagious and fulfilling. Very, very deserving of this award.

Baylee Posted over a year ago

Perfectly said! I’m so blessed to have Wendy as my aunt. Always looking out for me and others!! Most selfless person you will ever meet. She is very deserving of this!!!

Russell Posted over a year ago

Wendy = Friend My sister Wendy is a LifeChanger in every aspect. As I watched from afar as she cared for my father, there is nothing she wouldn’t have done for him or my mother. She told me more than once…”I’m happy to do it and if I was called upon to do it again, I would in a heartbeat”. Wendy is the kind of person that’s never met a stranger. Her personality is infectious and a friend to all. She is most deserving of this award!

Anonymous Parent Posted over a year ago

When your kids come home from the first week of a new school talking about the custodian, you know she's the best of humanity! My children adore Miss Wendy and constantly talk about wanting to help her because she takes such good care of them. Whenever I am on campus Miss Wendy has a huge smile and always greets every student, parent, and staff member with a compliment and familiar warmth. The first time we met she asked who my children were and then spent time telling me about what she appreciated about each of them and then complimented our parenting at home. Miss Wendy has continued to remember me since that first meeting and always says hello and fills me in about the goofiness me kids get into. She lifts everyone up around her and guides with a gentle and kind spirit. I am so thankful she is a part of my childrens school. Everything said in her nomination is true, and all the other comments as well. She inspires and makes the world brighter every day.

Heather Love Posted over a year ago

I don’t know where to begin as I describe one of the most influential people in my life, Wendy AhYou. She has a profound impact on everyone in our school community. She makes our school feel like a home and sincerely cares about each and every employee and child in our school. She is honestly the heart of our school and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this nomination. We love you Wendy!

Janelle Posted over a year ago

Wendy is always happy and I look forward to when I get to see her. She is amazing and positive!

Heather Renk Posted over a year ago

Wendy is one of the most amazing people I have ever had the opportunity to meet. A few years back we were having an issue with an allergy my daughter has which we found can be in everyday items that people use. Wendy went above and beyond checking all of her cleaning supplies to see if they contained the allergen and if they did she made sure to switch out products for my daughters classroom. This is just one example of how thoughtful and supportive Wendy is. She cares about each and every person who steps foot in that school and we are so lucky to have her as part if the Sage International Middleton family!

Quini Posted over a year ago

Wendy is the most kindhearted, down to earth, dedicated, loving, selfless, hard working lady I have ever met. She’s goes above and beyond in every single thing she is asked to do not only for the people at her school but for her family at home. She is the happiest person all the time and you will never catch her without a smile on her face and she will drop everything she is doing in a heartbeat for her family and I know she is the exact same way for her students, teachers, and the community around her! she is so selfless and i am so lucky to call her my mom because it doesn’t get much better than her. We are so lucky to have Wendy in our lives and im so happy all the hard work she has put in never goes unnoticed by those around her. She’s is the most deserving of this award!

Kymberly Ott Posted over a year ago

Wow! What an honor to be a part of her life! Wendy is the example of great, and loving parents that raised her with a gentle and caring lead. I’m so proud to related to Wendy, I only wish she was closer in miles. Her genuine spirit speaks volume! Wendy we thank you for your presence and efforts to serve others! It’s an honor to see you recognized!

Jessica Humphries Posted over a year ago

Wendy AhYou is always a highlight of my day when I come to work! No matter her workload, she always brings a smile and a positive attitude! Her positivity and her frequent humming as she works motivates me to follow in her example and try to always put my best foot forward! She goes above and beyond what is expected of her and I don't know what our school would do without her amazing work ethic and her willingness to take care of the school and everyone in it! I hope that she is recognized with the LifeChanger of the year award, because she truly changes the lives of everyone around her and I feel she is so deserving!

Lindsey Olsen Posted over a year ago

I came into work this morning feeling so worn out, but when I saw Miss Wendy, I knew that would change! I asked her how things are going and she said, "I am KILLIN' IT this morning!" This humor and energy is Miss Wendy to the core. She is the purest, sweetest, most authentic lady I know. She cares for our school with warmth and boundless enthusiasm day after day. When she's down, she's open and brave, tapping into hidden depths to keep herself and the people around her moving forward. And when she's up, she's truly unstoppable. I am so proud to know her and call her a friend!

Shirleen Pierce Posted over a year ago

I couldn’t agree more as I read Mr. Johnson’s comments. She is so uplifting to be around and genuinely expresses the concern for me and those around her.

Christina Pak Posted over a year ago

Wendy is one of the most positive people I have ever met in my life. No matter how her day is going, she has a smile and a hug for everyone. Her joyful attitude is infectious, and everyone who meets her can't help but love her. The students, teachers, and parents all enjoy interacting with her on a daily basis.

Brett Valley Posted over a year ago

Wendy is AMAZING!!! She is always a bright spot for students and staff. She brings a positive attitude everywhere she goes and passes it along to everyone she comes into contact with. She is very well deserving of LifeChanger of the Year!!!

Amanda Christensen Posted over a year ago

As a friend and co-worker of Wendy I can say with full confidence that all these statements by Andy Johnson are how she really does interact with everyone, both at our school and outside of it. We recognize her as a LifeChanger every day and would love for more to know her awesomeness.