LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Robyn Newton

Position: Physical Education Teacher
School: Vergennes Union Elementary School
School District: Addison Northwest School District
City, State: Vergennes, VT

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Music that Describes Robyn

Robyn Newton was nominated by the principal, Matthew DeBlois.

"The programming available to students at Vergennes Union Elementary School in physical education is unrivaled regarding scope, personalization, data-informed instruction, and, most importantly, joy. The opportunity to collaborate with and support teacher growth remains the favorite aspect of my role as a building principal," said DeBlois. "Ms. Newton and her colleagues have expanded a program we offer to all of our Kindergarten students known as Action Based Learning, which is based upon brain research that supports the link of movement and physical activity to increased academic performance. She helped create it to further our students' academic and physical success. Weekly collaboration with Kindergarten teachers occurs in which the team evaluates data and plans for subsequent progressions. This program includes aspects of gross and fine motor skill development, literacy, numeracy, handwriting, balance, midline crossing, and rhythm, among others."

The continuous thread of community fitness that runs through the school building stems from Ms. Newton. Most school-wide traditions benefit staff and students' physical and emotional wellness. One of the annual traditions that students and staff participate in at Vergennes Union Elementary is the Fun Run. This running endeavor occurs each fall and has students race their peers in gradually tiered races. The school invites families to come and support in two ways: to cheer on the athletes and donate, with proceeds going to maintain the school's trail network and outdoor learning spaces. Students and families participate in other seminal events such as the Olympics, Jump Rope for Heart, and the semi-annual dance unit. Families also join in on these events as spectators, guest performers, and participants.

"Our school attempts to innovate. One hard-to-sell innovation came to us from a group of folks, including Ms. Newton," said DeBlois. "Our school participated in the Global Day of Play, and without the political and communication support of Ms. Newton, we would not have been able to do this the first time we tried it. This day allows students to essentially do whatever they want, which, as one can imagine, creates some anxiety among the staff of an elementary school. Students reminisce about Global Day of Play."

Ms. Newton effectively advocates for novel opportunities that increase students' autonomy, choice, and agency. Ms. Newton and some of her colleagues were able to secure a federal PEP grant in 2008 that brought many exciting learning opportunities to her school and community, including indoor ropes courses at all of her district's schools, an extensive outdoor ropes course at the high school, an 18 hole frisbee golf course, rollerblades, cross country skiing equipment, and more. These attributes and equipment remain vital to the district's physical education programs. Her school continues to pursue these aspects of personalization in intentional and deliberate ways that would not be possible without the spark of opportunities like Global Day of Play.

"The City of Vergennes started a recreation committee some years ago," said DeBlois. "Although Robyn does not live in the city, she volunteered to serve on this committee to represent the school with me. Robyn remains on the committee and is one of the driving forces to accomplish some great things that mutually benefit the city and school, including being the spark behind an ongoing initiative to resurface the basketball court that doubles as an ice rink, continually working on grants to support a pavilion over the ice rink, break down some barriers to usage, and develop intentional relationships between the school district and city. Her work with the city manager, department of public works, city committees, recreation director, and school officials speaks to her commitment to the augmentation of fitness and opportunities for the whole community."

"There is no greater champion for all students past and present than Robyn Newton," said DeBlois. "She believes that students can succeed when prepared for it. Our elementary school students have fantastic opportunities to learn water safety and low and high ropes elements - including the Flying Squirrel, ice skating, cross-country skiing, crossing the midlines, golfing, and more. Our programming is designed to create lifelong fitness pursuers, and Robyn continuously champions that cause. She merits this distinction so that she can share with others her story and the story of learning possible."

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Comments (20)

Kim Bennett Posted over a year ago

I have children who have been Robyn’s students and I have worked in the same district for many years. Robyn touches the lives of all who know her. Being supportive and encouraging while still maintaining high expectations is Robyn’s super power. She makes everyone one who knows her want to be a better person. I cannot think of anyone who has changed more lives in our community than Robyn. Our school district is so lucky to have her!

Sarah Stroup Posted over a year ago

For our two children, and for many other kids in our community, Robyn Newton is the first person to greet them every morning. Standing in her usual spot as cross-guard at a busy intersection, Ms. Newton welcomes every student by name with a smile, often with a joke or a comment about what will be happening later in the day. As the innovator and lead of the VUES Olympics, as leader of Action-Based Learning, and as enthusiastic supporter of recreational spaces in our community, Ms. Newton leads by example as an educator and community member. According to my son, "we learned better teamwork and communication skills. We also learned how to manage our emotions better. I was 100% glad to have Ms. Newton. I had her for seven years and she is a great teacher!"

Sue Posted over a year ago

Robyn impacts every student at our school. She has an amazing amount of energy and creates amazing PE units that show students how to stay fit and have fun. Plus she builds community. She has taught 4 of my children and connected with each of them even though they are very different. Thank you, Robyn!

Karri Crossman Posted over a year ago

My kids absolutely adore Ms Newton. My kids get so excited for PE day. They know they will be engaged, have fun and learn something’s during class. We are so lucky to have her.

Logan R. Posted over a year ago

Ms. Newton teaches fun activities and PE classes are never the same which keeps them exciting. I feel so lucky that I have her as a teacher and will miss her when I graduate from VUES!

Amanda Letendre Posted over a year ago

Robyn is an amazing asset to our school community. The activities she exposes our children too are like no other. My 3 kids have amazing memories from their days participating in the Olympic events. It isn't just the physical aspect either. These units would flow back to class where they would research and learn about the country they were representing that year. I recall taking my kids to a birthday party at a roller rink. My kids were the only ones attending the party who knew how to Rollerblade. That was because Robyn taught them all during the yearly rollerblading unit. She finds was to engage all of her students no matter their ability! She is 1000% deserving of life changer of the year!

Devon Morrill Posted over a year ago

Ms. Newton is an absolute gem. She is an incredible educator and is responsible for teaching multitudes of children critical life and fitness skills. She has taught our three children how to tie their shoes, how to skate, how to snowboard and has supported their swimming skills. Her Olympic unit is a student favorite, and the Fun Run is the best community event of the year. She is engaging, inspiring and a true leader of life long fitness. We are grateful for her expertise, her sunny disposition and her belief that all children should enjoy moving their bodies. Thank you for your efforts each and every day Ms. Newton. Our community, our school and our children are beyond lucky to have you in their lives. Best, The Morrill Family

Terri Lavalette Posted over a year ago

Robyn, fondly known as “Newt”, may or may not win this year’s award, but her impact over the past two decades is undeniable. Newt was my softball coach at Trinity College, many years ago. Her passion for softball was contagious and she went above and beyond to ensure that we felt empowered to reach our full potential both as athletes and individuals. Newt was instrumental in teaching invaluable life lessons that extend far beyond softball. She accepted people for who they were, she encouraged us to take risks and dared us to dream. Newt taught the importance of bouncing back from setbacks, maintaining a positive attitude and the value of commitment and hard work. Her authenticity, integrity, and ability to inspire and uplift others were evident every day back then and continue to shine through brightly for all who cross her path. It is because of these qualities that I can confidently say: Robyn changed my life. At a time when I struggled to find purpose and direction, she was there and helped me navigate through doubts and uncertainties. Reflecting on those moments brings a smile to my face. Now, that I am a parent, I hope my daughter encounters individuals like Robyn – people who, through their everyday actions and genuine kindness, make a profound difference in the lives of others. Robyn’s impact wasn’t due to grand gestures but rather the countless small acts that revealed the depth of her character and her commitment to making the world a better place, one person at a time.

Kara Posted over a year ago

As one of Ms. Newton's first classes at Vergennes, I was able to participate in all of the fun physical education events that helped to form community within the walls and fields of the school. I feel very fortunate that my child is also able to learn from her and to see the enjoyment that comes from all of her detailed events. The Winter Olympics celebration, the Dance programs, ice skating, soccer, and even the parachute games will forever bring back smiles.

George N Mueller Posted over a year ago

Congrats, Robyn, for another lifetime achievement as a nominee for the LifeChanger of the Year. Since you were a young girl, you always wanted to help others and make a difference. Here you are...being recognized for another achievement that highlights many of your gifts to our children, families and the community. I am certain that the leadership you have shown has and will stimulate others to come forward to be challenged and serve others. Know that you are seen as a compassionate leader that doesn't settle for what is, but strives for what's best. Thank you for being there for our youngest generation, along with their families. Thank you for being you! May God's Blessing shower over you.

Diana LaPlante Posted over a year ago

I worked with Robyn for some years at Vergennes Elementary School, where she included everyone in her classes, no matter their ability. Her creativity and ability to think outside the box, made her physical education classes both fun and motivating for students. We need more educators and people like her in this world. Diana LaPlante

Meredith Parker Posted over a year ago

While I only know Robyn through the community, I know that her empathy, kindness, and passion for making a positive difference among our youth (and world in general) makes her very deserving of this nomination. I'm grateful to know her and I can share from experience that she impacts more than just those in the school system - she positively impacts everybody she comes in contact with.

Michelle Houghton Posted over a year ago

Robyn Newton is one of the most amazing educators I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She is always creating and revising the most dynamic units and lessons for kids. She knows her craft and the research behind it but it doesn’t end there…when it comes to education she is a natural. She knows how to teach, reach and inspire kids. She is loved by all and she is a gift.

Jill Murray-Killon Posted over a year ago

Congrats Robyn!! You are so amazing. Thank you for all you do and for truly caring about our kiddos!

Lucas Paquin Posted over a year ago

Robyn is truly a Life Changer. As a previous student of hers (10 years ago), I witnessed firsthand her passion for physical education throughout elementary school. I also used the ropes course multiple times in highschool, which wouldn't have been built without her. She is an amazing teacher, coach, and most importantly - community member. Thank you Robyn!

Lorraine Sulvain Posted over a year ago

Robyn, you are an amazing educator and I greatly valued the support you gave to our students.

Anna Gagnon Posted over a year ago

Robyn makes genuine connections with the kids before they even attend the school. I have four boys and while my two oldest were her students my two youngest would wait all day for pick up and every day she would come to their window in my van and make them giggle. They couldn’t wait to be her students! The opportunities she offers the kids are above and beyond. She creates such a fun active environment while making connections to the real world. She understands and creates curriculum to make class active and meaningful. I remember right after the kids returned from distance learning and she was doing Winter Olympics and I went to watch the kids during bobsledding and I teared up because the kids were once again laughing and smiling. That’s what she brings out in the kids while they learn; joy, collaboration, support, encouragement, trying their best. She is the best!

Tracy Tembreull Posted over a year ago

Ms. Newton is a phenomenal physical education teacher! All of our children have looked forward to PE class! She creates such a positive environment to learn and try new activities in.

Lissa Gebo Posted over a year ago

Newtie- You continue to amaze Me every day with Your enthusiasm and Love for the Kids You work with! Keep up the amazing work, You Rock!

Wendy Haskell Posted over a year ago

Robyn, you are, in the simplest terms, one of the best in the ANWSU! I along with Eddie, have nothing but fond memories of you and I am so grateful Eddie had you in his very early formative years. There are so many instances that come to mind when I think of you and the impact you had on all the lives you have touched. Wether it was as a crossing guard in the heat, cold or rain, you always had a smile or wave for whom ever you came in contact or the times that you acknowledged the students for more than their academic or physical abilities. All children should have a Ms. Newton in their world, even for 1 day, that is all it takes for you to make each child feel special and valued. You are deserving of this award yesterday, today and always!!