LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Edd Powers was nominated by his principal, Kristopher Kahler.

Edd Powers has been the music teacher at Maroa-Forsyth for 22 years.  During this time, he has always had a positive attitude.  He cares a lot more about his students than the music he is teaching them. Mr. Powers believes in the importance of making music fun for students so he can build relationships with them and support them outside of his classroom.  By making his class so fun and engaging for students, he motivates them to continue into music beyond elementary school.

"Several years ago, our fifth grade band program was going to be eliminated. Mr. Powers came into my office and said he wanted to take the program so students wouldn't miss out," Kahler said. "I wasn't able to give Mr. Powers any additional compensation, but he still took the band program willingly and excelled at exciting our students to play in the band."

The impact Mr. Powers has had on his students has never been more evident than during the final concert of 2017.  This concert was his last in the district. He is retiring, though teaching part-time in another district next year.  Alumni came back to perform for Mr. Powers. Some of these alumni were local. Others flew in from Los Angeles, Phoenix, and other parts of the country to show them how much of a positive impact he made on their lives. During this concert, Mr. Powers was not feeling well, but he took the time to talk with every current student, friend, and alumni.

Mr. Powers hasn't just had a positive impact on his students, but also on his fellow teachers.

"Edd is always positive and demonstrates excitement to be at school. This enthusiasm is contagious with the other teachers," Kahler said. "I always knew if I needed someone to help me with a project in school, Edd was there to volunteer.  He will be greatly missed at MFGS!"