LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Dina Cashin was nominated anonymously.

"Ms. Dina Cashin's students jump out of bed each school morning because they cannot wait to see what fun learning activities await them in her classroom. Ms. Cashin is the kind of teacher every child dreams about having, even if it's only once in their entire school career. She's the kind of teacher parents whisper a prayer of thanks for; they know their child will be nurtured, loved, and masterfully taught daily under her tutelage in a safe environment free from bullying or harassment. Ms. Cashin is a source of positivity and joy for all who encounter her during school. She greets her eager young students with a smile and then involves them in meaningful, curriculum-based learning episodes that promote success for every student at their level. She differentiates instruction, so her students typically soar under her guidance. Reluctant learners become enthusiastic and confident and look forward to their time with their beloved teacher," said the nominator. 

"Her classroom is a 'safe place' and a vibrant, colorful, print-rich environment that encourages literacy skills and exploration. Even before the term was coined, Ms. Cashin was doing 'SEL' (social and emotional learning), as she has always cared about nurturing the whole child and encouraging positive student interactions. Her students celebrate holidays and special days 'in her classroom, and she skillfully uses them as opportunities for student learning and growth. Her students come from a wonderfully diverse community, and the diversity is celebrated and respected. Many of her students also come from economically fragile homes. She often personally ensures that none of them lack anything at school or home, and she does this in secret and without fanfare," said the nominator. 

"Ms. Cashin is at the heart of her school community and represents the very best qualities of a professional. She maintains close and open communication with her students' parents; consequently, they hold her in high regard. Parents often maintain contact long after their child moves on to the next grade. She is a respected member of the professional learning community and has been selected as "Teacher of the Year" for her many important qualities. She mentors young and aspiring educators who look to her as a role model. She draws upon her rich educational formation at the university level, where she earned a Master's Degree and graduated Summa Cum Laude. She willingly volunteers for committees and added responsibilities because that is the kind of person she is. She serves on the Curriculum Council and the Character Education Committee, among other endeavors. She is pursuing studies to become a supervisor at the K-12 level. Her presence enriches the extended school community, and she is of the highest character," said the nominator.

"Maya Angelou stated, 'People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.' Ms. Cashin's students will never forget that she made them feel loved, safe, important, and like they had tremendous potential, which is what all great educators should do. Dina Cashin is a master teacher who has forever made a positive difference for her students and all school community members. She is a champion for her students; everyone leaves her classroom knowing they are cared about and have bright futures. Her enthusiasm, dedication, professionalism, initiative, kindness, and devotion to her students is unsurpassed. For all these reasons and more, she deserves to be selected as LifeChanger of the Year," said the nominator.