LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Stephanie Hageman was nominated by her principal, Michael Butts.

Stephanie is the key to a successful alternative education option for students in her community. She helps students master concepts that they may have missed when struggling in a previous course. Not only does she help students understand math material, she also connects with them on a personal level. For some of her students, Stephanie is the only trusted adult in their lives. She assists their growth as a young adult, by helping them become successful in school, at work and in life.

She builds well rounded individuals, as the work they do together is much more than math. She is the team leader for the Alternative Education staff, and plays a key role in the local Education Association in her school district. Stephanie also mentors young teachers across the state as they begin their teaching career. Perhaps the most rewarding work that she does is her role as a Night School instructor. Night School is open to students who have dropped out and wish to return, but day school may not be the right fit for them. Students that still long to earn their diploma, can participate two evenings each week in the program.

Stephanie has helped dozens of students complete the missing pieces to earn their diploma. These student's educational careers have been disrupted by their lives, and this program gives them a chance to earn back their education. They all need a compassionate, caring adult to help them navigate the way back to earning a diploma. "Steph feeds them physically and intellectually every time they arrive in Night School," Butts said. "She teaches them, mentors them and loves them. She has been a key LifeChanger for many."

Stephanie Hageman In The News:
WHS’s Hageman nominated for LifeChanger of the Year award