LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Stephanie Thompson

Position: Paraprofessional, Grades 10-14, SCI Classroom
School: Highland Pines School
School District: Tuscola Intermediate School District
City, State: Caro, MI

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Stephanie Thompson was nominated by the assistant principal, Stephanie Van Petten.

Ms. Thompson is an outstanding leader in her school community. She consistently goes above and beyond to foster a positive and nurturing environment for both students and staff. Ms. Thompson works with a group of students who require additional support. Many of her students are dual-diagnosed as students with autism who are primarily nonverbal. She does a fantastic job of following the students' behavior intervention plans. 

One of Ms. Thompson's most remarkable qualities is her unwavering commitment to creating an environment where all students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive. Whether through one-on-one instruction or leading group activities, Ms. Thompson takes the time to build relationships with students, ensuring they feel seen and heard. Her efforts have led to noticeable improvements in student behaviors, well-being, and overall academic performance.

"In addition to her work with students, she is a true leader within our school building. Stephanie's collaborative approach and ability to inspire others have helped strengthen our school's sense of community. She is often the first to offer support to colleagues and is a natural mentor, consistently guiding new and veteran staff members. Her leadership is inclusive and empowering, creating a culture of trust, respect, and teamwork that extends throughout our entire school," said Van Petten.

Most importantly, Ms. Thompson is dedicated to cultivating a nurturing atmosphere where everyone feels safe and valued. She understands that a positive school culture is key to academic success, and her daily actions demonstrate a commitment to this belief. Through her efforts, the school has become a place where students are excited to learn, teachers are motivated to do their best work, and staff members are proud to be part of the community.

"I am honored to nominate Stephanie Thompson for the LifeChanger of the Year award. Stephanie has made an exceptional impact on the students, staff, and overall atmosphere at Highland Pines School. I wholeheartedly believe that Stephanie Thompson deserves to be recognized for her exceptional contributions to our school. Her passion, dedication, and leadership have made a lasting and positive impact on the entire school community. I strongly recommend Stephanie Thompson for the LifeChanger of the Year. I am confident that she will continue to inspire and lead with the same commitment and enthusiasm she has shown throughout her time at Highland Pines School," said Van Petten.

Comments (34)

Kevin Posted over a year ago

Stephanie always and still is a hard worker who is very determined to reach her goals. She has overcome a lot on her life, and I am very excited for her for being nominated for this recognition and opportunity. I don't work with her, but I have connections to her professionally, and everybody I talk to has nothing but great things to say about her and the work she does in her current position!

Susan Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has always gone above and beyond and this can be seen in every example of the students she works with. She deserves this award.

Mindy Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is the perfect choice for this! She always puts students first. I have watched her grow not only as an employee but as a person. She rises to any occasion, making sure the job is done well. Her leadership skills have really shown through this year also and she has done a wonderful job managing a classroom while working well with coworkers to make sure the students have everything they need. She continues to grow and spread love.

Lisa Posted over a year ago

Stephanie, you are not only an amazing teacher, but an amazing person! You have to be one of the hardest workers I know! You are a great inspiration to everyone's lives and hearts you touch!

Sarah Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is an all around great asset to Highland Pines School. This can be seen in her unwavering care and kindness shown throughout the school. Stephanie stepped up and became a successful leader when the need arose suddenly. She is patient and supportive to all students and this shows in the classroom as well as on the bus. Thank you for making a positive difference in our student’s lives!

JM Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has truly been the Life-changer of the Year. Her impact has been transformative, helping her students see the world from a new perspective, break through personal barriers, and reach goals they never thought possible.

Sc Posted over a year ago

With this job Stephanie does what a lot of people wouldn't be able to handle. Her dedication to her students is commendable!

Jerry Posted over a year ago

As the dispatcher at the TISD, Stephanie is always willing to help out on buses. She has a good rapport with all of the bus drivers, it doesnt matter which bus she may ride, she knows the students and their behaviors. She always has a pleasant demeanor, and is willing to help staff and students with whatever is needed.

Kimmie Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is an amazing woman. She knows how to work with every single student in our school. Stephanie works very well with all our professional bus drivers. As a professional working in our school, she is very patient and knowledgeable and works great with all the parents in difficult situations. She is definitely a natural leader and already a great teacher in my eyes.

Carrie Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has shown very well this year how she is a natural leader as she has helped to lead the class She has been assigned to. She loves the students she works with and goes above and beyond trying to help them strive for their highest potential.

Shayla Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is a wonderful person inside and out. She has been a big help with my 3 year old, from helping with his motor skills that he was behind in, to now helping with his speech and sign language. She has no problem helping when needed and is such an outgoing person. She’s been a big part of my life since I’ve known her and I couldn’t ask for a better person to be part of my life or my son’s life. Stephanie definitely deserves this award for all her hard work and dedication inside and outside of the classroom.

Michael Dew Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is an amazing person inside and out! She’s always dedicated to learning new things and overcoming challenges! She’s always there for others and has a big heart! She’s fantastic with children and loves every moment working with them! She definitely deserves this award

Paula Gruber Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is going to make an amazing special education teacher as I have had the pleasure of working with her for the last few years. She has the determination, heart, and compassion needed. I am proud to call her colleague..

Tim Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is outstanding building trust and relationships with students. Ms. Thompson has fantastic leadership traits. She is consistent, kind, and fair. I believe she's a natural leader and will be an excellent teacher in the special education field.

Carlos Posted over a year ago

I have known Stephanie for seven years and during that time, her character speaks volumes of her passion for helping others. She speaks very highly of all of her students and the love she has for her job. Family and friends are the most important part of her life. Seening her help her students Is amazing. Anyone who gets to know her and have her in their lives is truly blessed.

Andrea Posted over a year ago

I have known Stephanie for about 3 years now, and I consider her as a role model. Her work with children and adults of showing love, positivity, and compassion is over the roof amazing. She is very talented, fun, and creative with her ideas for what to teach, show, or let her students do in the classrooms.

Robert F Thompson II Posted over a year ago

I wholeheartedly support Stephanie Thompson’s nomination for the Life Changer of the Year award. Stephanie is an extraordinary educator whose empathy, resilience, and no-nonsense approach make her an exceptional role model. She stepped into a challenging role as lead teacher, taking charge of a classroom filled with students with significant emotional and cognitive challenges, and skillfully maintained their well-being and education until a replacement was secured. Her ability to connect with her students, balance care with discipline, and foster a positive learning environment is truly remarkable. Stephanie’s kindness, generosity, and quick wit inspire those around her, and she consistently puts others first. She has made an undeniable impact, not just on her students, but on her colleagues and community as well. Stephanie embodies the spirit of a life changer, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Jim Stapleton Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has a natural ability to work with student’s with special needs. She is patient and caring and is dedicated to the task of lifting every student to their highest potential.

Shelbey Posted over a year ago

I worked with Stephanie a little over a year. She has a heart of gold, and cares so deeply about her students, and will go above and beyond to make sure their needs are met.

Alexa Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is not only one of the most hardworking people I know, but she truly cares about the work she does and the kids she helps along the way. She goes above and beyond, constantly thinking of new ideas and ways to make her classroom more enjoyable and inclusive.

Velma Posted over a year ago

Stephanie rides my bus as an aide. She comes in a few hours early to do this. Some days she stays a few hours late to ride buses. She is amazing with the kids in our school. She has a unique gift of being able to instruct in a positive way while dealing with a bad behavior. She is my favorite bus aide.

Bill Posted over a year ago

I don’t know where Steph gets the strength to do what she does. She has the love and caring for all.

Matthew Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is a such an amazing kind hearted person. She will do anything for anyone. She deserves this award because of the lives she has changed in and out of a classroom setting.

Dan Manning Posted over a year ago

I have known Stephanie when times were easy and after life had been very trying for her and she has always risen above and persevered. She found a calling she really enjoys and makes a difference every day with her students. She has changed her life and, in turn, is a life changer for others.

Tim Schlak Posted over a year ago

Stephanie was an employee of mine in her past retail years. She was my favorite office associate so good with customers and always willing to go the extra mile for anyone!

Kristen Posted over a year ago

I have known Stephanie almost my entire life, and I can attest that she is a hard worker and a caring person! She goes above and beyond and has a big heart, and would do anything for anyone, no matter the time. She deserves this award because she’s wonderful at what she does and it’s obvious she makes a positive impact on students!

Matt Helm Posted over a year ago

Stephanie is a great educator and really cares and wants to make each of her students’ lives better. She is a great asset to all of her students and staff at school.

Cecelia Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has made such a difference in the lives of her students! She worries about each and every one of them as if they were her own. She encourages them and looks for ways to support them while individualizing to their specific needs. It’s a joy to visit the classroom and see the interaction!

Kristina Davidson Posted over a year ago

Stephanie’s energy just shines throughout the school. She has built bonds with nearly every student here and they absolutely adore her. The improvements that she has made in her classroom can be seen by everyone around her.

Sue Swathwood Posted over a year ago

I work with Stephanie, she is an amazing paraprofessional. I have seen her effectively handle students that are having behavioral issues, she knew what to do and say to defuse the situation

John Posted over a year ago

What can I say. Stephanie has been through it all and still seems to still fight. She is a wonderful person and is always there for you when you need her. Cousin power.

Andrew Posted over a year ago

I think Stephanie deserves this award because she loves her job more than anything. She loves and believes in all her students. I’m proud to call her my cousin.

Amanda ward Posted over a year ago

Stephanie has always had such a kind heart and full of compassion. She thinks of others before herself. I think Stephanie should win this award because she is a go getter that fights hard for her students. She try’s to make everyday fun and safe for those kids!

Holly Koenig Posted over a year ago

Stephanie Thompson is an amazing person inside and out. You can tell how much she pours her heart and soul into teaching and helping others. She shows compassion when she talks about the little daily things that happen to her at her job that make her day or bring her immense joy. She has overcome so much and deserves this award more than anyone I know.