LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Sharon Heater was nominated by a colleague, Scott Thompson.

Ms. Heater has been an educational assistant at Creswell Middle School for over 25 years. She shows daily that she cares deeply for the students personally and academically. Ms. Heater is always available if students need help with schoolwork. During lunch and several days after school, she runs study tables so students can catch up on work or have a quiet place to get help. Ms. Heater is always in the hall, gently reminding students to follow school rules and be where they should be. She always has a massive smile and a friendly word for whoever is near. You just feel good about yourself when you are around her.

Ms. Heater also leads by example. She is always at school, no matter what, all because she cares so much about the students' success. Ms. Heater knows most of the student's families, and many of the parents were her students when they were in school. She provides insight into student lives that would otherwise be impossible to know, which helps better serve the students. Ms. Heater's dedication and positive attitude make her school an inviting and safe place.

"Sometimes, I think she cares more about the students' success than they do. I can't imagine what our school would be like without Sharon," said Thompson.