LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Marin Fairbanks was nominated by her Assistant Principal, Alan Daniels. 

"With great pride and admiration, I nominate Marin Fairbanks for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. Ms. Fairbanks is a true champion for students and educators alike, and her impact on our school community is extraordinary," said Daniels.

Throughout her tenure at the school, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to student success, and a deep dedication to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment. Ms. Fairbanks has made a profound difference in the students' lives through her tireless efforts to develop and oversee the school's Citizenship class curriculum over the past five years.

"This class has become a cornerstone of our students' education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to engage as thoughtful, compassionate citizens. Her work in the History Curriculum Committee of our district further highlights her commitment to ensuring vertical alignment and compliance with state standards, which strengthens the academic foundation of our entire district," Daniels added. 

As the current department chair for Drama and Dance—despite not teaching those subjects—Ms. Fairbanks has shown remarkable leadership, fostering collaboration and growth among faculty. While not directly related to her teaching, her involvement in these departments is a testament to her dedication to the success and well-being of all students and staff.

One of the most notable aspects of Ms. Fairbanks' leadership is her unwavering support for students. She consistently goes above and beyond to help those in need, whether showing up early, staying late, or offering tutoring and guidance—often outside her class. This commitment extends to her role as the staff member overseeing the Tabletop Club, a space where students who may feel on the fringes of the school community have found a sense of belonging.

Ms. Fairbanks is also a consistent and invaluable volunteer for all the fine arts events. Whether taking tickets at a concert, chaperoning a competition, or providing feedback to students before a performance, she demonstrates her passion for her students and her belief in the power of the arts to enrich their lives. Her presence at these events sends a powerful message to students: that she cares about their growth and supports them, no matter the time or circumstance.

As an educator, Ms. Fairbanks exemplifies excellence in her craft. She actively seeks professional development opportunities, often at her own expense, to continuously grow and improve as a teacher.

"I have witnessed firsthand how she takes the knowledge gained from these professional developments and immediately applies it in her classroom, enhancing the learning experience for her students. Since our campus opened in the Fall of 2019, Ms. Fairbanks has played a pivotal role in shaping an environment of inclusion, empathy, and kindness," said Daniels.

Through her example and teaching, she has instilled these values in her students, encouraging them to reflect, think critically, and look outside themselves through service opportunities. Her classroom is where all students feel seen, heard, and valued. Ms. Fairbanks demonstrates the highest moral and ethical standards in every aspect of her work. She is a role model for her colleagues, a mentor to her students, and a vital part of the school community.

"Her contributions have left an indelible mark on our campus, and I can think of no one more deserving of the LifeChanger Award. Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in students' lives make her a true LifeChanger," Daniels concluded.