LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Aimee Katz was nominated by a colleague, Elyse Adams.

Miss Katz is the epitome of a LifeChanger. She is dedicated, motivated, and passionate about the success of her students. Teaching has always been a passion for Miss Katz.

"I have been honored with the privilege of being by her side as she went through her studies as an undergraduate in college, then as a colleague in a neighboring district in Tucson, AZ," Adams said. "I admire her for her continuous passion to ensure her students are provided opportunities to be empowered and feel success, as well as her drive for growth."

Many do not know the extra hours that Miss Katz puts into her job. Like many fellow educators, Miss Katz knows that her work goes beyond the school hours. At 5:15 AM every morning, you will find her busy at work, preparing for the moment her students walk through the door so she can push them to their highest potential.

Miss Katz does not solely teach second grade; she is a leader throughout her campus, modeling positive behavior through the activities she sponsors. She is the Student Council Advisor, an advisor for the Fuel 60 program, the School Wellness Coordinator for Pima County, and advisor for the K'NEX program and the robotics club. She thinks outside the box and has provided her students with real-world experiences by guiding them while they create their own business called Corky Kids. These young entrepreneurs produce and sell items made from corks, and all proceeds go to charities of their choice. 

Miss Katz' hard work and dedication go beyond her school's walls. She participates in programs, both in the city and overseas.

"She continues learning and growing as an educator by participating in professional development opportunities such as  being a STEMAZing Teacher leader through the Pima County Superintendent's office," Adams said. 

Recently, Miss Katz traveled to Israel to teach English to students in low-income areas. She gives up her time to help others grow, and she makes sure that she has the correct tools to be the best educator she can be. 

Miss Katz brings a breath of fresh air to her campus and her students. She is helpful to all and is always willing to give her time. She supports her colleagues and students by going above and beyond to adhere to the high moral and ethical standards that her profession requires.

"Aimee is much more than a teacher: she is a nurturer who believes in her students' full potential by going above and beyond to ensure they know they are capable of accomplishing their dreams," Adams said. "Miss Katz is a LifeChanger in my eyes; she inspires her students and colleagues every day."

Aimee Katz In The News:
MUSD teacher nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award