Paul Balazs
Position: Leadership Advisor - Student Government, IB Theory
School: Henry J. Kaiser High School
School District: Hawaii Department of Education
City, State: Honolulu, HI
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Paul Balazs was nominated by Principal, Justin S. Mew.
Three words that encapsulate Mr. Balazs are student-centered, passionate, and inspiring. Mr. Balazs is an extraordinary educator who has profoundly impacted the lives of his students, his school, and the community. His ability to foster a learning environment that supports student voice and promotes empowerment, critical thinking, and global perspectives makes him a true LifeChanger.
Proven Ability to Make a Beneficial Difference in the Lives of Students: Mr. Balazs' dedication to student-centered learning is evident in his encouraging students to find their voices and become problem-solvers. When his freshmen expressed fears after the cancellation of a school-wide Anti-Bullying Assembly due to a cyber threat, Mr. Balazs transformed a moment of anxiety into an opportunity for leadership and solidarity. With his guidance, his students created signs of encouragement and support, lined the school's entrance the following day, and sparked a movement that uplifted the entire school. This act of resilience and positivity earned widespread attention and highlighted the power of student initiative under his mentorship. Mr. Balazs empowers students to engage in real-world issues through his inspiring teaching. Whether guiding students to advocate for the Save Ka Iwi Coastline initiative or organizing school-wide Earth Day fairs, he ensures they understand that their voices and actions can make a tangible difference.
Positive Contribution to the School's Atmosphere: Mr. Balazs fosters a nurturing, inclusive environment at Kaiser High. His "Peace Circle" initiative began with a small group of students during recess and became a powerful symbol of unity, encompassing students, staff, and teachers joining hands to support inclusiveness. This initiative reflects his ability to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Leadership Within the School and District: A visionary leader, Mr. Balazs spearheaded Kaiser High's Earth Day Fair, a massive undertaking that involved coordinating with the school's council, student government, and community organizations. The event became a hallmark of environmental awareness and action, extending into the evening for community involvement. When Kaiser High represented the U.S. at the International High School Students Summit on World Tsunami Awareness in Japan, Mr. Balazs was instrumental in preparing the student team. His influence was evident when one of his students was chosen to deliver the closing remarks.
Record of Excellent Professional Performance: Mr. Balazs's commitment to excellence is unwavering. As an International Baccalaureate educator, he passionately and creatively teaches the Theory of Knowledge course, encouraging students to reflect on their ways of thinking and take responsibility for their perspectives. His students consistently credit him and his course as transformative experiences.
Commitment to Producing a Nurturing Atmosphere: Time and again, Mr. Balazs has shown his deep care for the community. During Hurricane Iselle, Kaiser High served as an evacuation shelter. Mr. Balazs arrived voluntarily at 6:00 a.m. to assist, demonstrating his steadfast commitment to serving others. He instills these values in his students, ensuring service is a core tenet of their learning and growth.
Adherence to High Moral and Ethical Standards: Paul Balazs holds himself and his students to the highest ethical standards. As a member of the National Honor Society selection committee, he emphasizes the importance of altruistic, sustained service alongside scholarship and leadership. His steadfast moral compass inspires his students to embrace similar principles in their academic and personal lives.
"In closing, Mr. Balazs's exceptional ability to inspire and empower students, his leadership in advancing holistic education, and his unwavering commitment to community and ethical values make him a standout nominee for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. He doesn't just teach—he transforms lives," said Mew.
Where to even begin? Though I never had the privilege of being in his IB Theory of Knowledge or Leadership class, Mr. Paul Balazs has been a pillar of unwavering support for me and countless others, even before my high school journey officially began. During the summer before my freshman year, Mr. Balazs was instrumental in helping me realize my ambitions. When I approached him with the idea of starting my own club as an incoming freshman, he didn’t hesitate for a moment. He guided me through the process with patience and enthusiasm, providing the resources and encouragement I needed to bring my vision to life. His belief in my potential, even before I had stepped into a high school classroom, gave me the confidence to pursue leadership roles and take on challenges with determination.
Later, when I began working on a project to address school lunch issues and propose sustainable improvements—a cornerstone initiative of my club, Sustainable Society—he generously offered his valuable time and attention to discuss it. Despite his countless responsibilities, he provided invaluable insights and practical advice that shaped my approach and helped me carry this project forward with purpose and clarity. His initial guidance and foundational direction ensured the initiative remained meaningful and impactful. He affirmed that student voices are powerful agents of change, inspiring me to pursue this work with greater confidence and resolve.
One of the most impactful contributions Mr. Balazs has made to Kaiser High School that I personally appreciate is the Club Project Funding initiative he introduced last year. This opportunity provided financial support to over 30 student clubs, empowering them to transform their ideas into reality. It wasn’t just about funding—it was a bold investment in the creativity, passion, and potential of student leaders. Thanks to this opportunity, my club, Sustainable Society, was able to ship activity kits and school supplies to children in Maui impacted by the Lahaina wildfire. This initiative wasn’t just a resource; it was an empowering force that unlocked new possibilities for collaboration, innovation, and meaningful impact, ensuring that every club could thrive and leave a meaningful legacy. His unwavering belief in student leadership shone brightly through this effort, solidifying his role as a true catalyst for positive change on our campus.
One moment that remains etched in my memory perfectly encapsulates his character. I walked into his classroom one day, hesitant to interrupt him, and tentatively asked, “Sorry, are you busy right now? Could I bother you for a sec?” Without missing a beat, he responded with a warm smile, “Nope, not at all! I’m never too busy to help out a student!” This small interaction speaks volumes about who Mr. Balazs is—a leader who prioritizes his students above all else, embodying the true essence of our Kaiser Student Government motto: Learn, Lead, and Serve with Aloha.
Mr. Balazs is, without question, the lifeblood of Kaiser High School’s student voice, school spirit, and leadership. These are not just abstract ideals—they are the core pillars of our community, and he single-handedly ensures they stand tall. Under his leadership, events like the Homecoming Fair/Parade/Week, Spirit Weeks, and Club Rush have become much-anticipated highlights of the school year, bringing students, staff, and the community together in ways that are uniquely Kaiser. These initiatives are not just events; they are celebrations of unity and pride, and they exemplify the vibrant culture he has fostered. His vision and relentless dedication have transformed Kaiser into a vibrant, spirited, and inclusive learning environment. Without his guidance and enthusiasm, it is difficult to imagine our school having the dynamic and lively atmosphere that we are so proud of today.
It’s not just the students in leadership, IB Theory of Knowledge, or his immediate circle who benefit from his brilliance; every single Kaiser student feels his impact. Through the countless school events and activities he organizes, Mr. Balazs breathes life into our campus. He embodies the spirit of aloha in all that he does, fostering connections, nurturing kindness, and inspiring a sense of unity that resonates deeply with everyone he encounters. In Hawaiian culture, aloha is not just a greeting—it reflects a profound spirit of kindness, compassion, and mutual respect. Mr. Balazs embodies this in every interaction, creating a community where every student feels a deep sense of belonging, support, and purpose. His leadership is a living example of aloha in action.
Perhaps what sets Mr. Balazs apart most is his ability to make every student feel seen, valued, and supported. For every student who enters his classroom—even those, like me, who have never taken one of his classes—he puts down whatever he’s doing and shifts his full attention to them. His genuine care radiates in everything he does, whether it’s checking in on the progress of all 30+ club presidents or simply offering a listening ear.
Mr. Balazs is not just a teacher; he is a mentor, a leader, and a source of unwavering positivity. His passion, devotion, and commitment to his students and our school are unmatched. There is not a single negative thing one could say about him. Every interaction, every word, and every effort he makes is filled with kindness, purpose, and an unshakable belief in the potential of his students.
Whether it’s his infectious enthusiasm or his thoughtful words of encouragement during challenging times, Mr. Balazs’ personal touch leaves an indelible mark on everyone he meets. His tireless dedication and transformative leadership have inspired countless students to dream bigger, lead with purpose, and embrace a legacy of positivity that will echo through Kaiser High School for generations. If there were an award for inspiring leaders and building a brighter future, he would undoubtedly win it a thousand times over. I am endlessly grateful for his presence, and I can confidently say that our school—and I, personally—are beyond fortunate to have someone as extraordinary as him guiding and inspiring us every step of the way.
Mr. Balazs is one of the best teachers I have ever had, and his commitment to the school and the community shine through in everything he does. He is also one of the most caring individuals I have ever met, and his dedication to the environment and student wellbeing are inspirational. He works tirelessly to ensure that students at Kaiser have meaningful experiences, and feel welcome in the community.
#LCOY Having been Mr. Balazs' student throughout all four years of high school, I couldn't be more grateful. Not only is he an incredibly passionate and selfless person, but he also inspires everyone around him to grow and find their path. Being in both his Leadership class and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class, I only wish I could have taken more classes taught by Mr. Balazs. Leadership class is centered around student events, and Mr. Balazs always has amazing ideas. Even despite logistical or regulatory challenges we may have faced when planning events, Mr. Balazs' guidance is the reason for our creativity and community spirit that ultimately led to successful events. For example, planning an exciting Class Day on campus seemed like a constraint as other classes were able to leave campus, but it ended up as a lively combination of waterslides, sports, crafts, live music, and more. He truly cares about each and every one of his students, and leaves us with valuable life lessons. Leadership and TOK are quite different courses, but Mr. Balazs has a way of always making his students think about things that we never would have considered. Even during COVID-19, Mr. Balazs still found ways to engage with our class and our local community through social media campaigns, online activities, and even garden days at Kaiser's Peace and Sustainability Garden. It's no wonder why we were able to bounce back so quickly once COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, planning both senior l?'au and senior prom in a short amount of time. From planning student events to developing philosophical ideas, I have gained so much valuable insight from Mr. Balazs. I could probably talk to him about anything and walk away with added depth and insight to the topic. But on top of Mr. Balazs' classes, he is just simply an incredible person. He stays true to his values and touches lives without even realizing. Many people strive to practice the values of kindness, compassion, respect, and love, but no one truly embodies them the way Mr. Balazs does. These values may seem idealistic to some, but those who believe that definitely haven't met Mr. Balazs. I haven't met anyone as inspiring as him, who lives with so much compassion each and every day. Teachers like Mr. Balazs are truly one-of-a-kind, and I am forever grateful for the way he has changed my life.
#LCOY
I was honored and privileged to be Mr. Balazs' student for four years. While I won't delve into the dozens of life-changing, community oriented events, campaigns, projects, classes, etc. he constantly works on--I will talk about the way in which he has changed our lives. I could never overstate how much he has changed my life, and the lives of every single student that has ever walked through his doors. As a high school teacher, he is meeting kids at a time in their life of exponential growth and discovery--finding out about themselves, their character, their passions, their values, their community, the world, and who they want to be. Mr. Balazs is not just a teacher--he is a mentor, a peer, and a friend. Mr. Balazs shows up fully for every single one of his students. It is not an exaggeration to say he gives the shirt off of his back, and anything he can offer to show up for his students. Any time one of his students has a creative idea for an event, a project, a campaign, anything--he shows up, always. He challenges you to think big, and to strive even higher. He encourages his students to think more holistically about the world, to challenge their perspectives, to explore who they are, about their community and how they can contribute positively, in their own unique way, to the world. This is so so so important in the world today--a world filled with tension, anxiety, insecurity, and anger. Mr. Balazs shows up, supports, and teaches his students how to navigate this world in a way that is rooted in compassion, support, and confidence. His leadership and teaching have single-handedly impacted our entire community (through his environmental movement he has built and cultivated within the school and its students, the calling to reground the community in itself and with each other, and compassion), and has impacted the larger world (by sending young adults into the world rooted in this compassion, self assurance, and drive).
I am so beyond inexplicably grateful to have had Mr. Balazs as a mentor and friend in my life. I can undoubtedly say that he is the reason I am the person that I am today. It brings me to tears every time I think about how grateful I am--and I know that any of his other students agree with me. Mr. Balazs helped me find my strengths (leadership, drive, passion, compassion, communication), my values and world views (to be community oriented, to show up for others, to dream big, vulnerability, open-mindedness), hone in on my skills (community building, movement building, imagination), to challenge my perspectives, and helped me find my passion--activism, community-building, and fighting for people. He provided the support and encouragement, at an awkward time (isn't high school awkward for everyone?), and helped me move into the world with the confidence and drive to pass along what he was able to give me. He is a constant source of inspiration, and I have truly never met anyone else who is as selfless, compassionate, and incredible as he is. He has not just changed my life. He has changed every single person's life that he has ever come into contact with, every single day--and we are all inexplicably grateful.
Mr. Balazs immediately came to mind when I heard #LCOY. He is truly one of a kind, a rare gem among educators. He's extremely selfless, hard-working, and an incredible role model. I was lucky enough to take his Leadership Training class during all four of my years at Kaiser. I enrolled in the class almost solely because I heard he would be teaching it, as I had heard so many great things about him from my brother and many of his other students. Frankly, I would take any class if Mr. Balazs were teaching it, he puts his heart and soul into everything he does and inspires those around him to do the same.
He was the kind of teacher who would make us feel like anything was possible; In class, when we brainstormed ideas for events or initiatives that had never been done before or seemed too ambitious, he could have easily said it would be too much to pull off. The saying 'where there's a will, there's a way' came to life. As young students, having the freedom to create meaningful change with the unwavering support of our advisor was empowering. Mr. Balazs believed in us completely.
When COVID-19 moved school online, he remained a steadfast source of support. Teaching and keeping students engaged on Zoom was no easy feat. He made the most of an incredibly challenging situation, ensuring we stayed motivated and engaged. He refused to let our learning feel like busy work. More importantly, he cared for us as people first, not just as students.
Mr. Balazs instills invaluable lessons and values in his students. As the advisor for Wipeout Crew, an eco and service-oriented student organization, he inspires stewardship and activism. He started a peace and sustainability garden on campus, where students actively plant native species and engage in service. His guidance has led countless current and former students to pursue educational outreach and environmental justice, igniting a lifelong passion in them.
For Mr. Balazs, teaching is far more than a job, it’s a calling. He selflessly dedicates his evenings, weekends, and more to his school and community, often going unnoticed. Even with this award, I know it’s not about the title or recognition for him. It’s about the opportunities it could create for the students and school. His commitment and hard work go far beyond the job description. Did I mention he managed to do all of this while pursuing his master's degree? He has an admirable work ethic that I think about whenever I feel overwhelmed with my workload.
Now that I’m in college, I often find myself searching for professors who teach with the same care and passion that Mr. Balazs does (it’s not an easy standard to meet). His wisdom and heart shine through always, he's one of the few people I turn to for advice to this day. He changed my high school experience for the absolute best and the lessons I’ve learned from him continue to shape my life.
As a former student of Mr. Paul Balazs, I stand firmly alongside my fellow community members as we can only make attempts to express our transcendent support for this life changer. We were first introduced a few years ago when he, by some divine blessing, became my 10th grade English teacher. Immediately it became clear to our entire class that this was not just another educator. Mr. Balazs goes beyond his call of duty as a teacher to fully express his investment, understanding, and attentiveness to his students. Rather than just brushing upon conventional literary topics, Mr. Balazs opened the door to broader concepts such as transcendentalism and the innate potential of our lives as they are formed by our decisions. He certainly would not like to take all of the credit, but Mr. Balazs was the reason why I joined the IB Diploma Program at Kaiser High School. Regardless of its rigor that was so frequently advertised, I was both comforted and eager to know that I would be given the opportunity to take his Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class, in addition to remaining under his guidance and leadership for just a few years more. Over the years I was given numerous opportunities to learn and glean from his character. From my time with him in Wipeout Crew as an officer, to our community service trip to Fiji, to our daily interactions that could always bring a smile to one’s face, Mr. Balazs is a living testament to the idea that, “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”. As a result of these once in a lifetime experiences that were made possible by Mr. Balazs, I graduated from Kaiser High School with a confident sense of my identity, my place in this world, as well as the point where my passions and purpose intersect for the betterment of myself, but more importantly those around me. Mr. Balazs has once said that he measures his own happiness and fulfillment through the joy he sees in others, and thus it’s always going to be about people and the quality and depth of their relationships. When most would back down and settle for the status quo, Mr. Balazs will stand up and contend for his students, his peers, and his community through whatever means necessary. When one student is feeling down, he will be the first to take notice and jump into action. When a community is suffering, he will rise and lead the tireless charge into innovation and restoration. Now that I am graduated and off at college in San Diego, Mr. Balazs still makes an effort to check in, say hi, and remind us of the support that will always be awaiting us back home. Just as he does for the rest of his students, and just as he will continue to do because that is the rare and overflowing heart that this life changer possesses. With such an abundance of generosity and selflessness also comes a remarkable display of humility. Therefore, I can only say thank you for the opportunity to try and express my gratitude for this person in not enough words. As well as a thank you to Mr. Balazs for being the model of joy, love, balance, commitment, inspiration, and impact. Thank you for being our life changer!
Where to begin when thinking about how Paul Balazs has changed the lives of so many around him? As a parent, my son has benefitted by being in his IB Theory of Knowledge classes. He learned to view the world through different lenses which broadened his horizons and his mindset. But the best part was applying those lessons by being a part of the IB World Travelers group which toured Thailand, Laos and Fiji. Paul led my son and our students on these unique submersions into the different cultures, understanding the importance of each and teaching them the importance of giving back by doing community service projects. In Thailand, they became first aid certified and helped the community by doing medical check-ups. In Laos, they laid tile foundations on dirt floored classrooms and they built a flagpole so the school could qualify for needed funding. In Fiji, the students built new pathways, making it easier for disabled people to get around, they repainted worn down buildings and they planted mangrove to restore a natural balance to the shores of Fiji. My son carries these lessons to this day always thinking of the impact a simple gesture can have on another.
As a co-worker, I witnessed Paul transform our Student Leadership to the next level. He understands the importance of Kaiser High School and the impact we have on our community. Under his leadership, Paul has brought back the Homecoming Parade; hopefully, this will be a continuing and growing tradition. This past year, they put together the first Aloha in Action, a Kaiser Complex wide effort to do a community service project in our ahupua'a, which focuses on Malama '?ina - which is to care for our surroundings. Paul encourages students to explore, think out of the box and just try. For example, our first Kaiser Surf Team had their inaugural year this year. Rather than just saying an easy 'no', Paul approaches new ideas with - ok, let's see what it takes! Paul surely isn't able to accomplish all of this on his own, it does take a village. But it is his leadership which inspires and motivates others to think of projects such as Aloha in Action and then ACT on it.
I could go on and on about his leadership with the WipeOut Crew and the annual Earth Fest. It's easy to see why Paul is a perfect candidate for the #LCOY award.
Paul has done such a wonderful job connecting students of Kaiser highschool to the importance of establishing a relationship with community and the environment we all live in. From organizing events to being a great mentor, Paul has done it all and truly deserves to be recognized as a life changer of the year.
Mr. Balazs is the name your write for “favorite high school teacher” in your two-step verification when you forget your password. His passion and dedication to not only his students, but to all living beings around him has tremendously inspired and shaped me into the person I am today. I will never forget the countless hours of community service with our blood, sweat, and tears we shared during my high school days. If there was one person that taught me to never give up, it was Mr. Balazs.
Paul has a heart of gold. His commitment and dedication to his students and the community is unwavering. He has touched the lives of so many people over the years. He is so deserving of this honor. Paul truly found his calling and it shows is all that does.
Paul, your dedication and selflessness as an educator are truly inspiring. The way you pour your time, energy, and heart into shaping young minds and supporting your students is remarkable. Your commitment to their growth and success, both academically and personally, is a testament to your character and passion for teaching. Thank you for going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of so many. Your efforts don’t go unnoticed, and the impact you make will resonate for years to come. Keep being the amazing educator you are!
Paul is the kindest and most caring person I know. Since knowing Paul I have seen how many students' lives he has inspired. I have witnessed how much hard work, dedication, and love he endlessly pours into everything he does- from taking care of the school garden, leading beach clean ups, advocating at the state capitol for policy change, traveling with students to Fiji or Thailand, or to leading donation drives for houseless folks. This man is a superhero! I can't think of anyone who deserves this award more!
My vote is for Paul Balaz, he's such a dedicated teacher to his students.
Paul I always knew that whatever you decided to do you would be Great at. You were always a great leader. Always glad to see former students doing so well and using your God given talents
As an outsider and fellow educator, I have witnessed Paul's unwavering commitment to his students and community over the years. His dedication is truly admirable and deserving of recognition.
As a current student of Mr. Balazs's, I am fortunate enough to have him as a mentor in both Student Body Leadership Training and the intricate IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) class, one of the most unique offered at our school. When I first learned of an opportunity to provide a "recommendation letter" of sorts, I knew it was only fitting to detail the incredible and oftentimes unappreciated work that he provides for us students on a daily basis. Despite being crammed for finals, it is quite easy to be able to discuss the profound ways in which Mr. Balazs has impacted my life so far as a student, and so I don't feel burdened at all writing this and instead enjoy reflecting on my journey for the last two years.
In my junior year, I embarked on an ambitious path, entering the student government scene as student body vice president (and eventually president) and taking up the challenge of the rigorous IB Diploma course. I remember walking into our student activities room in the late summer, coming in early to plan events for the upcoming school year. I was nervous and worried about the first impression I would make, how I would interact with this new teacher and these foreign upperclassmen, and the things I would say to re-ignite the conversation if it died down. Yet, the moment I stepped into the room, Mr. Balazs made the first effort to break the ice. And for the next two years, as I've sat in his classroom time and time again, it is remarkable to see him raise his energy, and approach each student coming into his classroom with a true compassion and care for their wellbeing -- no matter how stressed or busy he is. Ultimately, it is these small details that stem from being a truly good person, that inspire others and draw students to do their best and be comfortable in the shrouded pursuit of learning. It is no wonder that during lunch, or recess, his classroom is always full and radiating with excited chatter. Whether he is masterfully telling a story or strumming the guitar, students can connect with him on a level that seems to go beyond student and teacher.
Another aspect of Mr. Balazs that makes him an outstanding change-maker in our school and community, is his infectious passion and tireless dedication. Tasked with planning many of our school's largest activities, he juggles giving personalized feedback on all of our Theory of Knowledge assignments while also coordinating events with numerous stakeholders. From waking up early and being the first at school to set up for our PACT donation drive, to staying late hours to direct clean-up efforts for graduation and homecoming events, he quietly leads by example, embodying the dedication to creating positive shared experiences for others. He carries himself humbly, and despite his hard work, he doesn't expect praise. In fact, he will make sure to thank every single one of our leadership students at the end of an exhausting week of homecoming and drill into us the importance of sending thank-you cards. His lesson on the importance of how far a little "thank you" can go is one that I will never forget. It is these lessons not in any curriculum, that he teaches through example, which are the most important in my opinion.
Finally, Mr. Balazs has taken the imitative to truly revolutionize the culture and events at our school. Not mentioned, was his active leadership in creating the most memorable and profound homecoming week in my four years, coordinating a shift in our class schedule that incorporated the entire student body in a way never seen before. He spent a year, almost single-handedly, planning our Homecoming community parade which engaged Kaiser High School with alumni and garnered tons of community support in the upcoming months. He orchestrated the first-ever complex-wide service event, intertwining middle and elementary schools across our complex in a day-long celebration of service and learning of stewardship. On top of this, he volunteers his limited time to take students to separate learning expeditions, like the IB retreat to Camp Palehua and the Secondary Student Conference and advocacy and legislation. There is much more, but in summary, he has a true passion for his work that truly changes the lives of his students.
Mr. Balazs has been fundamental to my success, not just in an academic sense and my understanding of the concepts of TOK, but in my success with extracurriculars like my appointment as the student representative on the Board of Education and Delegate to the United States Senate Youth Program. Yet, the defining aspect of his mentorship is his attention and care to teaching us how to be better people, compassionate and positive in our contributions to those around us. Mr. Balazs is truly a pillar in my life and our school, and his impact has created far-reaching and unseen ripples.
Mr.Balazs was my 10th grade English teacher who ended up teaching me a lot more than literature. Mr. Balazs brought a balance to the classroom that I’ve never seen even to this day, by not only strengthening our minds but nurturing our spirits by giving us an outlet through true creative expression. He also advised a club known as the wipeout crew and it still influences the way I view the world and my relationship with it! No one deserves this award more than him ????
I’m so happy to see Mr. Balazs being nominated for the #LCOY award- it is a very well deserved nomination!
In my class with him, he had an incredible ability to inspire students to think creatively and deeply, always encouraging expression and engagement with the content we were learning! His care and appreciation for his students, each educator at Kaiser, and in the community around him is so inspiring. He’s made such a positive impact on each of us and I would be elated to see his dedication recognized through this award!
Paul is the best teacher any student or person could ask for. He deserves this.
Paul is a great educator and community member!
#LCOY, this is the perfect award and title for Mr. Balaz. He’s one of the few teachers that I will remember for the rest of my life because of how he made me and other students feel.
In the classroom, Mr. Balaz did a wonderful job at engaging curriculum in a thoughtful provoking way, that exercised our education beyond books.
His impact went beyond the classroom.
I grew up without my parents and didn’t receive a lot of encouragement. When I was in high school, I started making jewelry as a hobby and Mr. Balaz encouraged me to do my very first pop up at Kaiser High School for his Earth Fest event. Fast forward to today, I own 3 jewelry stores and employ a team of 15!
He has a very large heart for community and as a full circle moment, even after I had graduated and was no longer his student, he purchased jewelry from my business. He has a heart of supporting his students and community like no other.
He is truly the one teacher I will forever be grateful for. The world would be a better place if we had more teachers like Mr. Balaz!
In a world that seems impossible to fix, Mr. Balazs is always someone I think of who has inspired me to believe that I can make a difference. I was lucky enough to have known Mr. Balazs throughout my high school experience. He was my 10th grade English and 11-12th grade IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) teacher. What I enjoyed and believe to be most effective about Mr. Balazs's teaching is his ability to make students see how the content they are learning matters to their contributions as individuals to the world. A simple conversation about Henry David Thoreau often lead to much deeper thinking and conversations. He provides the context and shares his thoughts, and at the same time is much more interested in what his students have to say no matter what their perspective is. I recently attended an IB information night and his current students say the same things about his classes being the most interesting and impactful. Furthermore, Mr. Balazs doesn't only inspire in the classroom but through his own life. If there is a need in the community that he can see our school helping to fulfill, he leads that initiative. I remember a farm was hosting a festival and he got our band to march and play there. They were extremely grateful. In addition, he's helped students to lead many beach clean-ups, donation drives, and service learning/conference related travel. Lastly, I worked with him in student council for 4 years and as quickly as he would give suggestions he would be the first to volunteer. He was there sign waving in front of the school (and I know he still does when I visit the school today), passing out fundraising flyers, and encouraging students to participate in events. When our football team's season had been cancelled he helped his leadership class to plan a scrimmage during homecoming to raise spirits and give us hope. If you ask any alumni they would agree he contributes greatly to the spirited and positive atmosphere that the campus has. My brother who graduated last year has positive things to say about him as well, so I am sure he's only improved and done more than I know. I've only listed a small list of examples of what Mr. Balazs has contributed, but in summary I want to emphasize that in every interaction he has with students he empowers them through example and through incredibly encouraging words. I couldn't think of a more perfect award for Mr. Balazs, #LCOY. He is without a doubt a life changer and the work he has done changes the lives of students long after they have graduated. I can say after now graduating college, "I still remember what you've taught me Mr. Balazs and it continues to encourage me to be the change I want to see in the world!".
Balazs was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. As a teacher myself today, I recognize all the work he has done and continues to do to support his students. He is the definition of going above and beyond for his students and community. I am forever changed by the dedication and passion he has for helping us reach our potential. His passion and excitement for life is truly contagious, and exactly what I needed at a pivotal point in my life. I appreciate all the time and effort he poured into all of us, he changed my life and many others.
There is no one who deserves recognition more than Mr. Balazs! Paul’s passion for his students, education and nurturing of all those around him goes above and beyond. I have watched Mr. Balazs over the years pour into his students, campus and community tirelessly and with such humility. All those who know Paul are blessed and inspired by his leadership and most importantly heart. I can not endorse Mr. Balazs more strongly- he sets the example for what education should be.
I’ve known Paul for over 20 years and honestly cannot think of a more deserving person for this. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another soul as genuinely caring as his, nor the demonstrated dedication to bringing out the best version of anyone under his influence.
Finally they are giving you the recognition you deserve!!!! All jokes aside, you have been a great inspiration to the Kaiser High School Class of 2017 and myself especially. If it weren’t for you, our class wouldn’t have made it to where we are now. Thanks goes to you for bringing awareness and sensitivity to our environment and the communities we come from. Your knowledge and unconditional love for people and our Aina has brought inspiration to thousands of students. Your presence is positively infectious and I couldn’t be more proud to say I was your student.
Mr. Balaz is such an inspiring teacher and community-builder. Last year he organized an event that brought together all neighborhood schools from elementary up for a day of service with local nonprofits called Aloha in Action. School students and families volunteered to take care of our environment and come together to build community. Mr. Balaz is also one of the most active and supportive club mentors. The club he started, Wipeout Crew, is very active in community service and teaches care for the environment at the school by establishing a school garden that students actively maintain. Personally, Mr. Balaz was an incredible teacher and mentor to my son throughout high school, which set him up for success in college. He learned skills that set him up for success for a lifetime from Mr. Balaz. I could go on and on because honestly Mr. Balaz is just a great educator and we at the Kaiser High School community are so lucky to have him.
I had Balazs as a teacher and advisor all throughout high school. He has made such a difference in my life with the advice he has given me and the inspiration he has been. He truly understands what community needs and means. I am so grateful to have had Balazs as someone I can look up to and someone I can rely on.
Although I am a past student of Mr. Balazs, I can attest to his passion for teaching and his commitment to empowering students. He is pivotal in helping to shape the next generation of people that will make the world a better place.
In the classroom, Mr. Balazs made learning fun and engaging, and never put anyone down. There were no wrong answers. I genuinely enjoyed coming to his class because I knew he would find a way to keep it interesting and he’s just such an awesome person all-around.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Balazs is the environmental club (Wipeout Crew) advisor. I served as the president of this club and learned so much under his guidance. I was able to hone my leadership skills, learn more about environmental topics, get involved with important movements, live a more sustainable life, and in turn educate others about the importance of taking care of our home!
I am a college student now, but I will always carry with me what I learned from Mr. Balazs. He is a humble man who does so much for others and doesn’t expect anything in return. He truly is one of my favorite teachers of all time, and even though I’m not his student anymore, I know that I could contact him anytime.
When I was applying to colleges, Mr. Balazs advocated for me through a several pages long letter of recommendation. This helped me to get into a competitive program with several scholarships. He had pages of good things to say about me, and I have the same for him! So even though this award is for #LCOY, I believe Mr. Balazs should be Life Changer of All Time!
Mr. Balazs, if you’re seeing this, thank you for everything! You are an inspiration to us all, and I am so grateful for your continuous support along my journey. Wishing you the best and I got your back too!
