LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Anna Korinek was nominated by her Assistant Principal, Summer Martin.

"Anna is a LifeChanger for her students every year. She consistently transforms students with low self-esteem, minimal motivation for learning, and limited functional, relational, and social skills into self-confident, intrinsically motivated individuals who believe they can learn and grow in all areas. This kind of teaching isn't found in a book or a scope and sequence. Yet, she integrates it into every moment of the students' day, always reteaching with positivity and high expectations to ensure they feel loved, supported, and empowered. She always speaks to students respectfully, maintains their privacy, and models a growth mindset," said Martin.

Below is a story from Martin:

"A student came to her underperforming academically, highly explosive and reactive, and constantly believing he was worthless. However, she saw a diamond in this student. Regardless of his outward behavior and negative self-image, she worked tirelessly to uncover the amazing young man she saw. She consistently flooded him with positive self-statements, advocated for his needs, built a strong relationship by being trustworthy, and noticed he came out of his shell when he could tell jokes. She used this to enhance his peer relationships so the class could see his fun and creative side. She helped him cultivate friendships and, step by step, built his confidence until he could say kind things about himself. By the end of the year, he was actively engaged in academics daily, had friends, and was using strategies and growth mindset statements to affirm his worth in moments of struggle. This student went on to perform in the wax museum as a historical figure and joined the drama elective in middle school. He is now fully successful in his educational program, not only for the year he was with Anna but moving forward in his educational journey."

"Anna's approach has a lifelong impact on her students. They trust her to be kind, follow through, and hold them to high expectations, all while knowing she genuinely wants the best for them. Many more stories like this show how she has completely changed the trajectory of students' paths. She is standing at the fork in the road, helping direct students toward their best options," said Martin.

Ms. Korinek's positive relationships with her students, peers, and families are a testament to her exceptional interpersonal skills. She demonstrates thoroughness in all her work, effectively utilizing support personnel to assist students directly. Her clear and consistent communication with families and team members, and her data-driven reflections, showcase a profound understanding of how to enhance her practice. Year after year, her grade level team and her students achieve high levels of academic growth in Reading and Math, both on school and state assessments.

Ms. Korinek is an educator who excels in every aspect. She sets high standards for herself and her students, instilling confidence in her ability to push them to their full potential. Her unwavering consistency, reliability, and positive attitude make her a standout teacher, mentor, leader, and team member.