LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Theresa Carr was nominated by her principal, Todd Smith.

Ms. Carr has served as Valley School's secretary for 19 years. Her commitment to making sure everyone is taken care of, from students and staff, to parents and community members, is truly remarkable. Ms. Carr's utmost love is meeting the needs of the school's students. 

Over the years, she has set up and run programs that support students in need. This includes providing needed school supplies, supporting students when they become ill or injured, being extra vigilant in getting families enrolled for free and reduced meals, and ensuring children are taken care of during special events and holidays. Ms. Carr is also one of the first staff members who students see each day. She makes students feel special because she creates positive, loving connections with every student.

Ms. Carr not only serves as Valley School's secretary, but takes on other leadership roles for the district, as well. In addition to the many district-wide reports and programs she manages, she serves as the district's drama teacher. She produces and directs two performances each year that include students from various programs throughout the district. Through Ms. Carr's efforts, the afterschool extra-curricular program has allowed opportunities for hundreds of students to showcase and develop their talents and skills in ways that otherwise would go unnoticed.

Ms. Carr is also an integral part of the Valley Community. Under her organization and leadership, the Valley Fair continues to thrive and provide opportunities for youth to showcase livestock, cooking talents and craftsmanship right in their own neighborhood. Ms. Carr is the driving force that organizes the Valley Fair and encourages people from the community to volunteer and help. Each year, the fair contains a parade, fun run, arts, crafts and cooking entries and displays, fun booths, and live entertainment. Everything is made possible by Ms. Carr's guidance and leadership. 

Ms. Carr serves with the utmost integrity and commitment to excellence. She embraces everything her school does to improve the lives of students and families. This includes supporting in-voice and action programs at Valley School that are used for social emotional learning, core curriculum, and intervention programs. Ms. Carr picks plays for the drama production that align with what students are learning in their classrooms. It reinforces learning in a fun and exciting way. Her attention to detail and making sure that the school operates efficiently every day is unmatched.

"I nominate Theresa Carr for the LifeChanger of the Year Award because of her outstanding dedication and commitment to our students, staff, parents and community," Smith said. "She embraces and embodies what it means to help improve the lives of our students and families."