LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Mary Hayward was nominated by a colleague who wishes to remain anonymous.

This is Mrs. Hayward's first year at Tongue River Elementary School and only her second year in the classroom. Her vibrancy and ability to get students excited about the interactive learning in her classroom is unprecedented. According to one of her professors, who is a student teacher mentor, Mrs. Hayward was a stand-out student at the University of Wyoming in the education department. Her commitment to being engaged and present for her students is demonstrated in a variety of ways.

She is not only a co-teacher of the choir club, but she also teaches students piano before the school day even starts. Mrs. Hayward is known for her easy-going personality and vibrant smile. She is eager to do whatever she can to support the personal and academic growth of her students; which is evident in every meeting she attends. She is constantly problem-solving or coming up with insightful ways to help her students be successful.  

Mrs. Hayward came up with the idea to look into a therapy dog for one of her students who struggles with self control. She goes on every Adventure Club activity on weekends, and leads in such a positive way that students flock to be on her team or in her group. She is a positive role model, and is often the first to volunteer if there is help needed with anything at school.

"A few weeks ago, she and her husband came to help with the fundraising carnival," the nominator said. "They spun cotton candy and thoroughly enjoyed the kids as they came to our booth. When they are in Mary's class, students know that they will be loved and safe, but that they will also be held to high academic standards."

Mrs. Hayward's singing has also been known to bring people to tears.

"Although she is so very talented, you would never hear it from Mary because she is the definition of humble," the nominator said. "You will often hear Mary talk about the importance of family, and the joy she gets just from being with them. She has so much love and joy to give. Honestly, the best way to explain it is that it practically flows out of her. She is a LifeChanger to everyone she comes in contact with."

Mary Hayward In The News:
TRE teacher nominated as ‘LifeChanger of the Year’