LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Sarah Cummings

Position: English Teacher
School: John I Leonard High School
School District: Palm Beach County School District
City, State: Greenacres, FL

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Sarah Cummings was nominated by Thomas Ledbetter, a member of the community.

Ms. Cummings has made a great impact in the lives of her students. Her classroom has been described as a safe place where her kindness rubs off on her students. She has the ability to turn everything into a teachable moment for her students. She has created a community where a love of learning and hard work are rewarded.

Comments (71)

Jelver Posted over a year ago

Ms.cummings is more then an ordinary boring teacher, she somehow makes english seem so fun and is always so enthusiastic no matter how her day has been. She always has a smile on her face and she always tries to bring the best out her students . No matter if she sick or if she is on an of day she always their in class to support us and help us learn.

Corey Thomas Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is an amazing teacher. She is serious, but also relaxed at the same time. I love entering her class, and she actually cares about her students. She is a perfect teacher. Sincerely, Corey Thomas.

Alena Posted over a year ago

I don't like English very much but Mrs. Cummings has taught me a lot. She's a great teacher and I feel like I can ask her anything if I need help. She's really nice and patient and the best English teacher I've ever had, for sure!

Zorie Williams Posted over a year ago

Ms. Cummings is a great teacher. She makes the classroom very welcoming and makes sure that every student understands what's being taught.

Denae Underwood Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Cummings is an amazing teacher overall but one thing that I really like about her is that she will work one on one with you if you are struggling on a specific assignment. Some teachers stay at a pace and forget that not all students can retain the information in a class period, but Mrs.Cummings goes out of her way to help you with the material until you are confident enough to perform it on your own. She is also very positive and you can tell she loves her job which makes me want to learn more, and she never gives up on her students.

Brooke Milazzo Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is a really good teacher. She is really kind, but also knows how to calm us down if we talk too loud. She makes sure every individual understands the task at hand. She has helped my reading and writing skills through fun activities.

Kadir Salas Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings has taught me a lot throughout the past several months. She is determined to make sure that us students understand and is willing to try and help a student in need. The best English teacher I could’ve asked for.

Crisleidys Posted over a year ago

Ms.Cummings is a warm,helpful and thoughtful teacher. With so much patience and love too give. She is a great teacher.

Victor Lopez Posted over a year ago

Ms.Cumming has so much patience with our class i don't know how she does it everyday. She is truly a great teacher with the best intentions for her students. She is dedicated to help us be organized and helps us use avid to help us in our other classes.

Deborah Arocho Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Cummings is a driven and dedicated teacher who is passionate about her students and her job. I couldn't have asked for a better English teacher!

christopher jean-louis Posted over a year ago

I used to hate waking up early to go to school until my schedule was changed to Mrs.Cummings class. The first time i walked in , she treated me with so much respect and never judged me. She goes above and beyond to make sure that every student understands what she is teaching. Although there are about 30 kids in my class , she always makes time for us. I never seen such an amazing teacher have so many good qualities. I think Mrs.Cummings should be nominated because this award is for changing lives and surely she has changed mine. Without Mrs.Cummings i do not know where i would be right now. So Mrs.Cummings , If you're reading this i want to thank you for all the times you helped me understand when at first i had no clue. You are truly the best teacher I ever had and i really hope you're nominated. Thanks for all the help, Christopher Jean-Louis

Kathryn Gosman Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings has definitely changed my life! Her class changed my perspective on school, work ethic, and life in general. Being in AVID has changed my organization habits, and my work ethic exponentially. I feel like Mrs. Cummings class would benefit anyone, and would positively change their lives. Mrs. Cummings is a very welcoming teacher, and I feel as if I can talk to her about anything!

Claudio Morales Posted over a year ago

You are so far the best teacher I've had throughout my high school. Very innovative and unique with her teaching tactics. I have improved more on my writing and reading skills than what I would of with any other teacher. Ignore my informal writing, but so far I feel like Sarah Cummings should be nominated.

Jesus Posted over a year ago

good teacher

Dane Posted over a year ago

Ms Cummings is a wonderful teacher, I never knew how to annotate and write a commentary. I'm not saying that anyone is the class knew how to write it, however Ms Cummings really showed me and she did in a magnificent way. The way she teaches is perfect, she walks around and associates with everyone, in addition she makes sure we all participate. You are the best Ms Cummings.

Sama'a Ayoub Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is a very passionate teacher that cares about her students. She has a amazing way of teaching and continues to help her students in every way possible. She is a very understanding and caring person that no matter what tries to help and understand the student in the best ways possible.

Dane Posted over a year ago

Ms Cummings is a wonderful teacher, I never knew how to annotate and write a commentary. I'm not saying that anyone is the class knew how to write it, however Ms Cummings really showed me and she did in a magnificent way. The way she teaches is perfect, she walks around and associates with everyone, in addition she makes sure we all participate. You are the best Ms Cummings.

Melianys Ruiz Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Cummings is an amazing teacher. She is passionate about her work and dedicates herself to helping her students and helping them learn in the best way possible.

Vickie Hamilton Posted over a year ago

Sarah Cummings is definitely a life-changer because she personifies excellence, positive influence and leadership. I had the great fortune of being her Language Arts teacher many years ago and then being a peer to her, working side by side, as a teacher in a Missouri high school. While she sets the bar high for her students no matter what the academic subject, she achieves excellence by helping every student believe that he or she can reach that bar, that reaching it is important and worthwhile, and that learning and “reaching for more” is an important part of becoming a better version of oneself. She’s a quiet leader who leads through example and tremendous positive energy. I can’t even begin to measure the positive difference she has made in my life and in the lives of others around her!

Katharine Kieffer Posted over a year ago

Sarah is one of the most dedicated and passionate educators that I know. She is kindhearted and always willing to go the extra mile for her students. Sarah focuses on the individual well-being of her students and actively takes an interest in what makes them unique. She constantly creates innovating and challenging lessons for her students and is relentlessly supportive and encouraging of her students' academic and personal success. This attitude extends beyond those students in her class. She is a class sponsor, is a member of the Care Committee, and donates/volunteers for multiple charity organizations to help the community. Sarah is truly a one-of-a-kind teacher, and she is someone I am proud to call my colleague.

Ailyn Rodriguez Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is the most amazing, kind-hearted selfless, not only teacher, but person in this whole world. She was able to make such a rigorous course a fun and memorable learning experience. If I could take this class again, I would in a heartbeat. Thank you for everything Miss!!!

Liz Gibbs Posted over a year ago

Sarah Cummings is without a doubt one of the most caring, kind-hearted, and understanding women I have ever had the honor of sharing a friendship with. It’s not easy to find such a genuine and charismatic leader/teacher like her. Since meeting, she has and continues to be a role model for me (and many others, I’m sure).

Nicolas Mogollon Posted over a year ago

I am really grateful for having Ms. Cummings as a teacher this year. She made the class a great environment for the students. Very helpful and she truly deserves this award. I am glad we have her as a teacher at John I. Leonard high school. As a student, I had a great experience with the class and made everyone had a fun experience with the class. Also, making everyone better writers. She really cares that her students be successful in the future. She truly deserves this award

Alex Bissoon Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings has been one of the nicest ,caring teachers i ever had . She puts a lot of effort in making sure her students are the best they can be an i believe shes very deserving of this award ????

Ciana Hernandez Posted over a year ago

Ms. Cummings has taught me so much throughout this school year. The way she teaches makes it very easy to grasp and understand information which puts less stress on us as students because its easier. She always makes sure that we are confident in the things that we do because she has faith and she knows that we are more than capable of completing these things. She has also made it very easy to talk to her, she is a teacher that we can trust to talk to if anything is wrong and we just need a reliable person to speak with. I have loved being in this class and having Ms. Cummings as my teacher, I will be forever thankful for her.

yesenia mata Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Cummings is an amazing teacher, just by having her as my teacher for one year i've learned so much. she truly cares about her students and never hesitates to help anyone in need. she makes learning fun but also very educational. Mrs.Cummings is noble and creates and safe learning environment for her students. she makes students eager to learn more everyday. she absolutely deserves this award. trust me she is just the best teacher i have ever had :)

Mike Julia Joseph Posted over a year ago

She really cares about her students success in the AICE examination. She's very understanding and really does deserve this nomination more so an award

Leeann Farren Posted over a year ago

I was beyond lucky to have Sarah Cummings as my home room teacher for 3 years in high school. She was consistently the person I went to with every problem I was having and she was able to either help me solve the problem, or take a step back and look at the problem in a different perspective. She was, and still is, there for me any time I need it. Sarah truly made an amazing impact on my life and I believe that there is nobody better fit for the title of “Lifechanger of the Year”. Sarah changes the life of every person she meets. She is a blessing in the life of every person she comes across!

Janet Alessi Posted over a year ago

As an educator who has taught for 35 years, I wouldn't feel as optimistic about the future of our education system if not for young teachers like my colleague, Sarah. With her as their teacher, her students are in capable and caring hands.

Gloria Gama Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings truly makes you feel welcomed and safe in her class. She's always listening to any questions you may have and is willing to take comments from her students. no matter what time of day you have her class, you'll want to come. it's also amazing how she can challenge you just enough to make you realize your potential and give you positive and negative feedback on anything and everything you do.

Sharielys Rosado Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings was a outstanding teacher who never hesitated to provide assistance to her students. At the beginning of the year, I thought that I was a lousy writer, uncreative, just unable to write anything of value. But being in Mrs. Cummings class has made me realize my potential and ability to be a good writer who is capable of actually being creative and skillful enough to realize my own writing ability. I am very grateful that I was able to have Mrs. Cummings as my teacher, and I am excited for others who will eventually join her class.

Tristan A. Juglal Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is by far one of the best teachers I have had out of the whole three years of english. I have learned so much from her from the course requirements and some ways to just be a great person. I highly recommend Mrs. Cummings to be the teacher of the year for her outstanding work in being the greatest english language teacher in the school

Claudia Posted over a year ago

There is no better teacher than Mrs. Cummings!

Jorge Mendoza Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is one of the best writing teachers I've had and she has improved my writing as a whole.

Jackie Burgess-Malone Posted over a year ago

I know Sarah because she became a member of the Care Committee at our school. She was involved in getting items for one of our students whose house caught on fire and they lost everything( There are 7 children in the family). She is involved in Toys for Tots, Food for Families, getting money donated so that we can give out Walmart gift cards to our students in need for Thanksgiving and Holidays. She is class sponsor and is always ready to help with whatever needs to be done at school. Her students love her and they know that she is there for them, not only to educate them, but to help them with the many issues that teenagers come across at this time of their life. She encourages students to participate in community service and is an example of how one person can change the world, one child at a time. Our school has over 3600 students and approx 200 faculty members. Sarah is a teacher that her students will never forget,

Gabriela Carrazana Posted over a year ago

I had the privilege to have Mrs. Cummings as a teacher this year and my level of satisfaction exceeded my expectations. I can not think of anyone more perfect for this award. Mrs. Cummings is the definition of a life changer. She inspired me to grow a love for writing that I previously did not have. Not only that, but her kindness radiated every single day that I came into the classroom which inspired me to be a better student and person. She was a blessing to my life. She was my peace. As I struggled with my 10 classes and life, in general, she managed to help me cope with it all. Mrs. Cummings is extremely passionate about her work, nothing like I have ever seen before. She is a ray of sunshine and an exceptional individual that rises above the rest. I aspire to be as beautiful a person as Mrs. Cummings is. She is intelligent, dedicated, Caring, and most of all she wants her students to succeed in and out of the classroom. She changed and impacted my life like no one has ever done before and for that I thank her.

Deb Welhoff Posted over a year ago

Sarah Cummings taught my son's freshman and senior English classes. Her ability to make the subject fun while challenging inspired him and his classmates. Her belief that every student can be successful inspired us parents. Sarah is the true definition of an outstanding educator and we were blessed to say she was part of our son's growth. He is finishing his first year of teaching and has often said her positive influence and teaching style is one he strives for every day. Ssrah is the real deal.

Leigh Ann Carl Posted over a year ago

Getting to have Mrs. Cummings as a teacher, is a student's version of winning the lottery. Teaching in not a job to her, it is her passion. She some how always finds the time and energy for every single student, if a student doesn't march to the same beat as everyone else, Mrs. Cummings finds their rhythm. Very few individuals are willing to go above and beyond for others, but this is her nature, day in/day out, is always about her students. We are beyond grateful for the time our children had with Mrs. Cummings.

Lamar Butler Posted over a year ago

Such a wonderful teacher! I'm so glad to have her !

Gianni Difede Posted over a year ago

One of the best English teachers i've had so far. Mrs. Cummings is an incredibly caring teacher that always levels with you, while doing it respectfully and clearly. Her learning techniques teach you what you need to learn and nothing extra, because she understands how stressful and important your highschool years are. She is sympathetic and for that I am more than grateful to have a educational year with her as my teacher.

Justin Kay Posted over a year ago

I know Sarah mostly through her former students. They all respond with nostalgic sighs when her name comes up in class. It's obvious that she has an impact beyond the curriculum with her students, which only happens when students know that their teacher cares.

Silkia Aviles Posted over a year ago

Sarah is the epitome of an excellent teacher. Not only does she truly care about her students, but she is also a great colleague! I’ve had the blessing to be able to work with her for the past few years and everything that she brings to the team is brilliant, helpful, and simply amazing!!! This is my first year teaching AICE Lang, an advanced college level course, and I wouldn’t have been able to survive it without her! She is is just selflessly given and does it because she desires to see everyone succeed! I can only hope I can find another teacher like her in my new school. I will miss her so much! She is truly a life changer, because from now on I will only strive be as good as she is!

fawn tenenbaum Posted over a year ago

Ms. Cummings is a wonderful teacher. As a veteran of 25 years in the classroom, I see things in her that other teachers should emulate: love and concern for her students, a continuous drive to see those students successful in whatever tasks are provided, a strong work ethic, modesty as a professional. I enjoy having planning with her b/c I can see that the wheels are always turning as she consistently is developing new and innovative methods for her students to grasp higher level material. Mostly, Ms. Cummings is a joy to work with and it is a pleasure to share my time with her during the day!

Robin Weaver Posted over a year ago

Sarah is a phenomenal teacher and human being. Her kindness, compassion, and empathy endear her to everyone. No matter what she is doing, if someone needs assistance, she stops what she is doing and helps said person. Sarah is a valuable resource for ideas, lessons, guidance, and support. She has been an outstanding mentor to the AICE English Language AS teachers. This nominee is passionate about teaching and is both experienced and dedicated to her profession. All of her students respect and adore her. Sarah is the sponsor for the Class of 2020, she will be an AVID teacher beginning next year, and is active in the community and with her church community. She is a role model for colleagues, students, her own children, and anyone with whom she has an association. Sarah is the ideal person for the LifeChanger Award; my life as a person and my profession as a teacher have been enriched by Sarah Cummings.

Dianne Douglas Posted over a year ago

Sarah is truly a kind and sincere individual that has a passion and a heart for her students. I look forward to working with her in the AVID program this next year as she becomes an AVID "mom" to a class of 9th graders. I wish you the best as you continue to be a life-changer to our students.

Jazmyn Zielenski Posted over a year ago

I can truly say Sarah Cummings helo changed my life for the good. Sarah introduced the lord into my life, and brought me so much more happiness than i ever thought. She taught me all about the lord and made me and many other students know just how loved we were. She helped me get away from some bad people and start doing right in my life. She truly deserves this and more!!

Ricky Clark Posted over a year ago

Ms. Cummings always set aside time to make sure her students are prepared to be successful. Thank you Ms. Cummings for your dedication.

M. Patterson Posted over a year ago

Outstanding teacher and loved by her students! Thank you for all you do!

Joe Chenoweth Posted over a year ago

Sarah Cummings is an incredible educator and even better person. When she and her family moved from our community to Florida, it left a gap in many areas. Sarah was a part of our Young Life ministry team as a volunteer leader and was our solid connection to the high school. She was constantly reaching to girls and bringing them to club and connecting them to others. She had a morning bible study that had a huge impact on some girls lives. We miss her but we are assured she is doing this same great work in her high school and community. She is s life changer

Sharon Rodriguez Posted over a year ago

Ms. Cummings is an amazing breathe of fresh air. Our son Matthew was in her class his senior year, and English is NOT his favorite subject. However, because of her love, guidance and endless commitment to teaching, and for the fact she cared so deeply it had a profound effect on him to want to do well, not because he was interested in the subject, but simply was inspired to live up to the expectations of his this wonderful teacher. She had his attention from the beginning, I remember him raving about how AWESOME she was within the first month. We had several conversations about her. A few months ago she reached out to me, with concerns, and after this very lovely phone call, I soon realized why Matthew says " I LOVE HER--SHE IS AMAZING", because I too fell in love with her! It is refreshing and frankly astonishing to see a teacher with such conviction. We are forever grateful for her influence on our son, what she has taught him are values that will stay with him for the rest of his life. Thank you, MS Cummings!!

Wistride Lumas Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings is one of the most caring teacher I have the privilege of knowing. She have a passion for teaching that is mind-blowing. In class, she takes her times to explain and answer every question a student might ask. She tries to understand every student in order to use different teaching method for the students to understand the subject. She always an inviting person making it really easy to trust her. She is always there to listen to me whether it's personal or not. Plus she doesn't complain at all. In fact, she encourage me to come to her if I need anything. So during my high school years, I always someone I can confide in with my problems. She is one of the most influential person I know. She is always supportive and encouraging. She made me have more confident in my abilities. I love Mrs. Cummings and I hope the world had more teachers like her. My best wishes.

Ashley Franklin Posted over a year ago

Sarah, is a great motivator who is selfless and consistently giving of her self to serve others. She loves teaching and has a great passion for the success of her students!

Shannon Posted over a year ago

This lady ... is the, hands down, most passionate, loving, genuine, and engaging educator I have met in my lifetime. From my own educational experience to observation of her interaction with others, I've met no one like her. She is dedicated, relevant, inspiring, fun, and professional. I'm thankful to have met her, to encourage her. And to witness her passion for teaching. God has done a good good work in you, Sarah Cummings!

Michelle Dunlap Posted over a year ago

At open house, we walked on campus of JILHS, then stepped into another world as we passed through the door of Mrs. Cummings’ ELA classroom. There were delightful, inspiring words everywhere.A cheerful positivity radiated from her presence. She spoke with joy about her students and their learning. We are grateful and blessed that she is teaching our daughter. Thank you!

Shelley Jansen Posted over a year ago

The true measure of an outstanding educator is the devotion of former students. Sarah, your students are inspired by your skill as an instructor and your heart as a person. So many of your students have prospered in college and in life thanks to your caring instruction. That is the true definition of a life changer.

Genesis L. Posted over a year ago

Ms.Cummings is an amazing teacher. She truly shows the best qualities you wish out of any other teacher. She puts her students individual needs first to improve performance and takes the time to listen to us so we may achieve and gain confidence in our work. Her classroom is interactive. All around there are positive notes on the wall to take with you, quotes to add into the wall, and student papers that went above and beyond so the class may see. She is long overdue for recognition and is truly a sweet, selfless, and humble being. The kind that truly inspires her students. She is a perfect example of one who perfectly fits the role for having changed minds and perspectives in lives for the better throughout her classes.

Arianna Posted over a year ago

I have known Ms. Cummings for two years now and she has been an inspiration to me ever since I walked through her classroom door she has always had a smile on her face and would always bring positivity to my life every time I see her.

Cassidy Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Cummings is one the most kind-hearted, inspirational and influential teachers I have ever had. She makes everybody feel like somebody and has changed so many lives. When I was struggling I always knew I could talk to her and trust her. She is the best!

Amanda Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings has been one of the most educated, caring, and passionate teachers I have ever had the pleasure to meet. Her knowledge and kindness has definitely impacted and ignited a deeper love in my education . Her teaching skills are impeccable. Mrs. Cummings is truly one of a kind!

Olivia Lopez Posted over a year ago

She’s honestly the most brightest and amazing teacher I’ve ever met. She’s so sweet and kind and truly appreciates all of her students on a whole new level.

Cass B. Posted over a year ago

She is such a wonderful teacher. She has the biggest heart and manages the classroom so well. She truly deserves this.

Ivebens Eliacin Posted over a year ago

Miss. Cummings is a very supportive and caring teacher you will every meet.Even when you have no hope in yourself, she still believe in you

Lily Corris Posted over a year ago

Ms.Cummings is one of the best teachers I have had through my entire learning experience. She is so sweet, thoughtful and thinks of her students as her own children. She truly is a life changer. ??

Laura Dunlap Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Cummings has been an awesome teacher that has truly inspired me to always be my best. She is always positive and encouraging. She makes the world a better place all while having amazing character and charm. Mrs. Cummings is an incredible teacher that has focus and drive that she can't help but run off on her students. Mrs. Cummings will forever be one of my favorite teachers, and I will never forget the way her smile and laughter could make any day amazing.

Emily Terwilliger Posted over a year ago

Sarah Cummings is one of the most compassionate and caring women I have been blessed to know. She is an innovative and energetic teacher and students thrive in her classes. She embraces innovative teaching techniques while holding steadfast to her core beliefs that all kids want to and can learn. She is welcoming to all and builds meaningful and lasting relationships with everyone she meets. These qualities and her ability to face adversity with grace and a smile on her face make her a deserving recipient of this award.

Andrea Laughlin Posted over a year ago

I have had the opportunity to work with Sarah and witness her impact on students. She cares for each and every student and works hard not only to increase their love of learning, but also their desires to become the best versions of themselves. She is a Lifechanger for everyone she meets.

Andy Campbell Posted over a year ago

I had the pleasure of working with Sarah for several years and was constantly impressed with her knowledge, compassion, commitment, and willingness to help every student in her classroom. She takes the time to get to know her students and in the process creates an environment where students feel comfortable trying new things. She is an excellent teacher and an even better person. In my 20 plus years as an educator she ranks right at the top of all with whom I have worked and she is truly a Life-Changer!

Kelly Lewis Posted over a year ago

Sarah provides a safe place for students. She does not judge, but meets kids where they are. This creates an environment where kids cannot only feel free to be themselves, but also be creative and take risks with their learning.

Micaela Roberts Posted over a year ago

Sarah has the ineffable quality that all truly great teachers have. The one that allows you to value yourself just as much as you value learning while in her classroom. It takes a breath of true inspiration to convince a group of students not only that the things they are filling their minds with are deeply meaningful but that they themslves can do deeply meaningful things with what they learn. As Sarah’s student I not only felt excited to read, to learn, to grow but I felt seen, acknowledged, and valued for who I was. She is no longer my teacher but she is a role model and a friend. I can’t think of someone more deserving.

Carol Posted over a year ago

Sarah and I taught together previously. She is truly a model for her students in kindness and hard work. She loves her students and they know it. Sarah also does an amazing job teaching English. There could not be a more deserving person for such an honor.

Brandon Posted over a year ago

I have known Sarah since we were kindergarteners. Even then, Sarah was one of the kindest, smartest, infectuously generous and pleasant people in any room. That remains today, and she brightens the next generation, in every meaning of the term, by imparting these brilliant qualities upon others at each opportunity. LifeChanger might not truly capture it - Sarah helps people experience a more productive, helpful, pleasant life.