LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Gay Parker was nominated by her colleague, Sharon Coulter.

For the last 10 years, Ms. Parker has been the computer lab teacher and webmaster at Jackson Elementary School. She has spent more than 20 years in the Pascagoula-Gautier School District, and her professional demeanor is part of why she's a LifeChanger in her community.

Ms. Parker maintains and regularly updates the school website using her artistic abilities. In preparation for the upcoming school year, she has already started updating the website over the summer. Each year, she decorates the computer lab according to the school theme for that year. Last year, her school had a pirate theme, and Ms. Parker had the lab set up like a pirate ship with masts, sails, steering wheels, and a treasure box.

"She goes above and beyond her job description to meet the needs of students, staff, and the whole learning community," Coulter said. "While teaching computer skills to students from pre-K through 4th grade, she gets to know each student and their families. She brings out the best in each student and encourages them to reach higher than they thought possible. Ms. Parker works with all staff on campus to coordinate their classroom lessons with her computer skills lessons. She is a bright light shining on our campus, welcoming all and bringing out their best."

Ms. Parker is a single mom who is also taking care of her own mother. She often purchases clothing, school supplies, and treats for her students.

"She is such a kind, caring individual and is a LifeChanger at Jackson Elementary School for our students and staff," Coulter said.