LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Stephanie Shoemaker was nominated by her principal, Summer Martin.

"A few words to describe Stephanie are relational, patient, student-centered, and a school leader," said Martin.

"Stephanie has provided exceptional instruction and a calm, relaxing learning environment, resulting in exceptional growth for her students with disabilities. She has led the students with the biggest relational walls, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence into positive relationships with adults and students. Her work has resulted in increased student self-confidence, desire to 'try,' academic growth, and a decrease in behaviors which allows them to access the general education setting on a much more regular basis," said Martin. "Stephanie also contributes to the teaching team as a strong advocate for students with disabilities, mentors other teachers, and leads EAs. When working with EAs, Stephanie goes above and beyond to ensure they learn their technical job (small group teaching, data, etc.). She also teaches them about the relational and behavioral portions of the job, so their paradigm shifts to the belief that 'Kids do well if they can!'"

"Stephanie's many qualities as a team player, advocate, mentor, leader, and confidant reach deep into the adults in the building, making her influence travel farther than just the students she serves. She is an exceptional teacher," said Martin.