LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jane Dews was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Dews teaches fourth-grade, a pivotal year when students are becoming more independent and forming lasting friendships. She focuses on nurturing self-esteem, student voice, and meaningful connections by creating a classroom where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered. At the start of the year, Ms. Dews gathers insight from parents to better understand each child’s motivations, goals, and needs. She builds on that foundation through weekly class meetings, structured social activities like “lunch buddies,” and daily check-ins that promote community and help students find common ground. Student choice is central to her approach. Through platforms like Class Dojo, Ms. Dews incorporates classroom jobs, incentives, and digital avatars that reward responsibility and effort while giving her insight into each student’s preferences and motivation. Ms. Dews also guides her students through long-term projects, teaching them how to break big tasks into manageable steps. One highlight is a personal narrative writing project that culminates in a professionally published class book and a celebratory publishing party. Through intentional practices, Ms. Dews helps her students build friendships, manage responsibilities, and take pride in their work, laying the groundwork for academic and personal success.