LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Tess Lawrence was nominated anonymously.

Mrs. Lawrence embodies what it means to be a LifeChanger. Her leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to students and educators have transformed her school into a model of excellence and have positively influenced public education far beyond her campus. Mrs. Lawrence demonstrates a proven ability to make a positive difference in students' lives every day.

Under her leadership, her school has consistently earned an A rating from the state of Mississippi and, most notably, has been recognized as both a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and the recipient of the inaugural Mississippi Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award this year. These accolades are a direct reflection of her tireless focus on student achievement, instructional quality, and whole-child development.

"On a personal level, she not only helped my son develop a love for school and learning, but I have witnessed firsthand how she has done the same for countless other students under her care," said the nominator.

Mrs. Lawrence has an exceptional ability to create and sustain a positive, nurturing school atmosphere. She has intentionally built a culture where students feel safe, valued, and challenged, and where teachers feel supported, empowered, and inspired. She continually pushes and encourages her teachers to become the very best educators they can be for their students, knowing that when teachers grow, students thrive. Through high-quality, purposeful professional development, she equips her faculty with the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to be true lifechangers in the classroom. Her leadership within the school, district, and state is unmatched.

Mrs. Lawrence leads by example, modeling professionalism, integrity, and instructional excellence. She has built a culture of excellence among her exceptional faculty and staff, fostering collaboration, innovation, and accountability. Under her leadership, the school has not only overcome challenges, but has emerged stronger from every obstacle placed before it.

Mrs. Lawrence maintains a record of outstanding professional performance. Education is an incredibly demanding profession, yet she makes it appear effortless. Those who know her understand the countless hours she spends improving her faculty, staff, school, students, district, and the broader landscape of public education in Mississippi. Her expertise is widely respected, and her influence has helped mold future leaders, including new principals, curriculum experts across districts, and even current and retired superintendents throughout the state. Her commitment to producing a nurturing atmosphere is evident in her daily actions. 

Mrs. Lawrence is deeply passionate about learning and continuously seeks opportunities to grow and improve herself as an educator and leader. She does not lead solely from behind a desk; she willingly steps into classrooms to teach, model instructional strategies, and support teachers directly. This hands-on approach strengthens instruction and reinforces her belief that leadership is rooted in service.

Above all, Mrs. Lawrence adheres to the highest moral and ethical standards. She leads with honesty, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students and educators alike. Her love for students, her passion for teaching, and her dedication to excellence have impacted countless lives and will continue to do so for generations to come. Her leadership changes lives, one student, one teacher, and one school at a time.