LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Dr. Thiago Leite

Position: Tenth Grade Honors/AP English Teacher
School: Secaucus High School
School District: Secaucus Public Schools
City, State: Secaucus, NJ

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Dr. Thiago Leite was nominated by an anonymous student.

"I met Dr. Leite on a class field trip, as he was our chaperone. He showed compassion to his students, whether or not he taught them English. If something was wrong with one of his students, he would always check in on them and ensure they were okay. He has a very connected relationship with each student he meets. Dr. Leite is the perfect nominee for this award because he does not teach for the 'fame,' but for the students," said the nominator. 

Comments (26)

Gabriel Del Nodal Posted over a year ago

Dr.Leite has been an amazing teacher to have, especially for my first year in the district, he is extremely kind and caring. but not too serious to the point that he's boring, he's able to joke around and have fun with the students while still very much keeping control over the room and making sure things don't get out of hand. He's also been a blessing to have whenever I need advice and don't want to go to people my age but instead, someone who's had a bit more experience in life and a bit more knowledgeable. He makes sure everyone in the classroom feels safe and invited into his space. He has gone above and beyond what I believe a model teacher should be.

Danny Argudo Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite has filled an irreplaceable role in my life and many others. As an English teacher, he unveils the profound messages of storytelling through his passion and expertise, which continues to influence me. As a mentor, he helped me navigate the tricky waters of college applications when I had few to guide me, giving me the conviction to dream big and make it my reality. His actions for me and others are the culmination of someone who has fought, struggled, and believed in their values. His compassion, empathy, and wisdom are the outcomes of becoming a strong and kind person. His continuous journey deserves this milestone of recognition and appreciation.

Denise Borbe Posted over a year ago

Entering sophmore year, I was gifted the opportunity to be taught by Dr. Leite. Not only does he showcase immense charisma in regards to his overall characteristics and work, but he also proceeds them with an air of attentiveness, which one can’t help but feel enamored by his teachings. As someone encompassing a deep love for literature, I benefit greatly from Leite’s teachings. There is always an invoked a feeling of inferred inquisition upon learning from him and it only makes me want to divulge further with his teachings. The subject of literature is indeed a fragile subject taught only capable by those who truly understand the implications behind texts, and Leite is already ahead of the rest. In fact, he’s knocked it all out of the park already. His positive and sassy attitude compliment each other well, and his positivity radiates against the corridors of his classroom. Some of my best school memories were in that room and I am forever grateful to be his student. I thank him for his contributions to the school and to his students.

Nicole Marin Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite has always allowed his classroom to be a safe space. Having had him in English 10 Honors my sophomore year, I had some of my nicest memories in his class. He’s always there to listen and never fails to make me and others laugh and smile.

Egda Veloz Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite is simply the best! He so deserves this award. He has taught both of my children and I have nothing but so much respect for him. He cares so much about his students and has a positive impact in their lives.

Abil Hamded Posted over a year ago

In my sophomore year, I had the honor to be taught by Dr. Leite. He is not only an incredible teacher but a role model to the student body. Everyday he spreads positivity through his actions, making his classroom a safe place for all his students.

Abil Hamded Posted over a year ago

In my sophomore year, I had the honor to be taught by Dr. Leite. He is not only an incredible teacher but a role model to the student body. Everyday he spreads positivity through his actions, making his classroom a safe place for all his students.

Aidan Del Rosario Posted over a year ago

He is single-handedly the greatest teacher I’ve ever had. He was the first and only teacher to actually make me interested in literature all while teaching useful advice in both writing and life. If there is any teacher that deserves an award for changing so many lives, it should be Dr. Thiago Leite

Stacey Lee Posted over a year ago

I cannot think of anyone more deserving for this award!

Stacey Lee Posted over a year ago

I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award!

Derek Chen Posted over a year ago

Before meeting Dr. Leite, I had no interest in the concept nor subject of Language Arts/ English, but my view of it changed completely when I met him. Dr. Leite sparked an interest and new perspective of Language Arts to me and now I find it rather interesting and educational then before. With that said, I think Dr. Leite deserves this award because I’m sure that not only did he change my life for the better, but he changed many others as well.

Genci Duraku Posted over a year ago

One of the best English teachers I’ve ever had! He has great character, charisma, and exceptional teaching skills.

Derek Chen Posted over a year ago

Before meeting Dr. Leite, I had no interest in the concept nor subject of Language Arts/ English, but my view of it changed completely when I met him. Dr. Leite sparked an interest and new perspective of Language Arts to me and now I find it rather interesting and educational then before. With that said, I think Dr. Leite deserves this award because I’m sure that not only did he change my life for the better, but he changed many others as well.

Kristin Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite is an unbelievable educator who taught both of my children. He has the capability of reaching students through his love and passion for literature. He can make the most difficult writing easy to understand with his unique ability of making it relatable to all who sit in his classroom. Students not only find a love of books in his class but develop college level writing skills. He continues to make his classes engaging and enjoyable and the students absolutely love him. Congratulations to him on his nomination of LifeChanger of the year. Well deserved.

Kimberly michalkovich Posted over a year ago

Dr Leite should absolutely win this life changer award. Hands down. Absolutely there for the children’s education but also a positive influence on the kids. My son had him as a teacher but learned so much! Kim michalkovich

Audrey Youn Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite has been one of my greatest supporters since the first day I took his English 10 Honors class. It is evident through his positive relationships with his students that he does his job with passion and genuine care. Despite only taking one class with him, and it being virtual, he never fails to give me the help I need and is always up for a random conversation to this day!

Elias A. Ford Posted over a year ago

Being a student of Dr. Leite I can say from a personal perspective that he is an amazing teacher. As any good teacher should Dr. Leite teaches about specific English subjects but also leaves you with life lessons and other important messages. Overall, Dr. Leite’s personality feels great to be around especially in a work environment and (I feel) is the perfect balance of easy going and strictness. Dr. Leite definitely deserves the award and I hope he gets it! Thank you, Dr. Leite.

Karen Posted over a year ago

He involves real life knowledge in his lessons and shows he truly cares for his students futures.

Rashi J Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite is a great teacher and has definitely taught numerous students how to become better write, learner, and observer overall. His room is always open for anyone during lunch for advice, help, or just to chill!

Akash Rana Posted over a year ago

I had taken Dr. Leite’s classes for both 10th and 11th grade English honors. He is truly a phenomenal teacher who has mastered his craft, and he has successfully created a positive and engaging working environment for his students. Apart from teaching, he is also a very kind hearted soul who shows the utmost care for his students when they are in need. Dr. Leite is a great role model for the people that surround him, and I truly believe that he should be the recipient of this award.

Om Patel Posted over a year ago

In my interactions with Dr. Leite, I have profoundly been moved by his unwavering dedication to improve the life of his students. Through his tireless efforts and selfless commitment, Dr. Elite has made a remarkable impact on lives of countless individuals, including myself. There is no individual in my opinion that is better suited to be presented an award of this stature.

David Perez Gonzalez Posted over a year ago

Thiago Leite is the most deserving person to receive this award. His efforts to truly connect with people surpass anything I’ve ever seen before. His attentive, compassionate, and amiable disposition lead him to be an influential figure in the lives of anyone who has the pleasure of meeting him. I truly count my blessings for putting him in my life. As I have had the great pleasure and honor to spend time under the tutelage of Dr. Leite, I can whole heartily say there is no one more deserving, of this award, than him.

Daniel Youn Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite is one of the most hard working yet caring people I've met. This nomination is no surprise to me as he has changed lives of countless students as a teacher, advisor, role model, and friend. He doesn't hesitate to offer his help and guides numerous people to success.

Ergen Banja Posted over a year ago

Dr. Leite truly deserves this award for the passion he shows in and out of the classroom towards helping his students succeed. He was one of our class of 2021 advisors and everyone can agree that he was willing to do anything to make sure we all did well and had the best time possible. Dr. Leite without a doubt has changed many lives and is the perfect for this award!

Sebastian Flood Posted over a year ago

Thiago Leite’s efforts transcend the confines of a classroom and have such a meaningful impact on each of his students. Personally he was my favorite teacher, excellent role model and has cemented himself as a lifelong friend. His nomination for this award comes as no surprise to me. Dr. Leite loves what he does and his passion for teaching can be observed in the effects he has had on countless individuals in his career as an educator.

Christian Bernabe Posted over a year ago

This is a perfect award for Dr. Leite! As of previous student of his from Class of 2017 I can truly say the description of the award doesn’t fit anyone better. Dr. Leite goes above and beyond any teacher by caring for his students as his own kids.