LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Jonathan Avilez

Position: Principal
School: Garfield Elementary School
School District: Phoenix 1 Elementary School District
City, State: Maricopa, AZ

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Music that Describes Jonathan

Jonathan Avilez was nominated by a parent of a student, Kiana Ashley.

"Three words that I would use to describe Mr. Avilez are compassionate, determined, and caring," said Ashley. "Mr. Avilez became the principal at Garfield Elementary School in 2023 (this year) and has already made a huge impact. There has been an issue that Mr. Avilez has already addressed and settled professionally and responsibly."

"Mr. Avilez has also impacted the lives of me and my son, Asaya," said Ashley. "My son has hyperactive issues. Mr. Avilez took time out of his summer vacation to meet with me before the start of the school year to go over an academic plan for my son and notify all staff members to observe Asaya. This action taken by Mr. Avilez has helped ensure that Asaya feels safe and heard. He has helped ease my anxiety, and it warms my heart that he could care for a child who wasn't his own."

"Mr. Avilez is the epitome of a LifeChanger. Mr. Avilez has made a lasting impression on my son; Asaya always asks if he can say hi to Mr. Avilez at games. When I asked him why he was so taken with Mr. Avilez, Asaya said, 'Because Mr. Avilez doesn't yell at me, he let me color that day in the office.' Mr. Avilez is a true gem," said Ashley.

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Comments (4)

Jessica Hess Posted over a year ago

Mr. Avilez has made a lasting impact on the Garfield community. His dedication and compassionate leadership is evident in how he leads the school. Mr Avilez has a clear understanding of the importance of keeping the needs of the students and staff as a top priority. The changes he made this school year have resulted in a positive shift in the learning culture at Garfield. I am excited to continue to grow and learn as an educator with Mr Avilez and the wonderful grizzly teaching family.

Bonita Luna-Tapia Posted over a year ago

I am not surprised that Mr. Avilez has been nominated as a LifeChanger! He truly has made a strong impact at Garfield. He's not afraid to take on tough decisions or face difficult challenges. I am SO proud to be a teacher at Garfield. Mr. Avilez is a major reason why I come into work feeling confident and eager to teach. He's approachable, has a positive mindset, and most importantly he's ready for whatever comes our way! Thank you, Mr. Avilez for supporting our resilient, loving and intelligent students everyday, the Grizzly way!

David Vasquez Posted over a year ago

Mr. Avilez is a true treasure hunter. He will never be outworked when it comes to supporting students and uncovering their shine.

Brant Lloyd Posted over a year ago

This is difficult to write because of the strong emotions I have about the tremendous work and leadership Jonathan Avilez has exhibited from the moment he joined the Phoenix #1 team. He is trustworthy, diligent, and positive. Students know this, staff know this, and parents know this because of his high level of integrity and genuine caring. I love Jonathan and love working with him. If I could pick a principal for myself and my children, I would pick him!!!