LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Kristina Bivins

Position: First/Second Grade Transition Teacher
School: Carrollton Elementary School
School District: Carrollton City Schools
City, State: Carrollton , GA

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Music that Describes Kristina


Kristina Bivins' nominator would like to remain anonymous.

Ms. Bivins is the embodiment of dedication to both teaching and learning. Her passion for education is palpable, and her unwavering commitment to her students is truly inspiring. Ms. Bivins' relentless motivation for children is a testament to her desire to see each child reach their highest potential. Drawing from her own learning challenges as a child, Ms. Bivins is particularly driven to help students overcome barriers in the classroom. In her role as a transition teacher, she willingly takes on the challenge of teaching academically at-risk students for a two-year period. During this time, she creates a classroom community brimming with engaging and effective learning opportunities. It's not uncommon for students to achieve far more than a year's growth within a single year of instruction with Ms. Bivins. 

The extreme growth of Ms. Bivins' students can be accredited to her refusal to give up on herself or her students and her true gift as a motivator. Ms. Bivins is highly talented at motivating students to give their best and seek progress over perfection. As a result, students continue to meet and exceed their goals across content areas. =

Ms. Bivins is a teacher and a team player who willingly takes on additional responsibilities. She relishes the opportunity to guide and mentor student teachers, considering it a privilege to help shape the future of education. Ms. Bivins also makes a concerted effort to maintain connections with her students and their families, taking pride in the lasting relationships she builds long after her students have moved on. 

"Kristina Bivins is truly an exceptional educator, and she is loved by countless students—past and present. Her impact may seem small in the day-to-day, but I am confident that the world will continue to benefit from the heart-fueled work of Ms. Bivins with her treasured students," shared the nominator.

Comments (57)

Nikki Walker Posted over a year ago

Kristina is very deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year Award! She is an incredible person, mother, wife, teacher, and friend! Kristina goes above and beyond in all aspects of life! She truly cares about other individuals, and she dedicates her time helping them become the best they can be! Kristina is also very encouraging and inspiring to those whom have the privilege to be around her! For all these reasons as well as many others it is a great joy for me to vote for Kristina as the winner of the LifeChanger of the Year Award!

Terri Stubbs Posted over a year ago

I had the opportunity to meet Mrs. Bivins through the PTVO at Carrollton Elementary School. I volunteered to help in a second grade class, and little did I know, I was about to walk into one of the most exceptional learning environments I have ever experienced. Her enthusiasm for teaching and love for her students exudes every ounce of her being. Mrs. Bivins not only uses every minute to be the most effective teacher for every student, she also guides student teachers to their full potential. I have witnessed the exceptional growth in her students during reading and how each one is transformed into a confident, proficient reader. She truly cares for each student as she praises during successes and also guides during frustrations knowing they can learn the most at those times. As a retired teacher, I have been blessed to be a volunteer with such an inspiring educator who so deserves the recognition of National Life Group LifeChanger of the Year.

James Grace Posted over a year ago

I am the Kristina’s very proud father and it’s great that she has been nominated for this prestigious award. Kristina always knew that she wanted to become a teacher from a very young age. Even in elementary school, she recognized that certain teachers were tremendous influencers. They used their caring personalities, teaching skills and patience to bring out her very best self. They were the ones that helped her to excel throughout her scholastic career and they were the ones that she always wanted to emulate. I’m extremely proud to say that she has become one of those teachers who will have a lasting impact on her students and maybe some of them will grow up wanting to emulate her.

Kylie Carroll Posted over a year ago

Ms. Bivins is a gift to education and Carrollton Elementary School. She is passionate, dedicated, and enthusiastic about teaching and learning. Ms. Bivins inspires growth in diverse students using the magic of motivation. In her classroom, Ms. Bivins believes in EVERY child. As a result, her students learn the power of believing in themselves and truly fall in love with learning.

Joseph Benefield Posted over a year ago

Mrs.Bivins is a wonderful and caring educator. She has devoted her life to changing the fortunes of others, to creating for them an academic environment that is both rigorous and studious but also kind and caring.

Jamie Carper Posted over a year ago

My daughter Sydney had the honor of having Mrs. Bivins as her first grade teacher last year, 2023-2024. We were uncertain at first as we understood she was a teacher of special students she would have for 2 years and this was unlike other classes. Little did we know then how blessed and lucky we were to have Mrs. Bivins in our lives. She is truly unlike any other teacher I’ve ever met. The dedication, time, energy, love and enthusiasm she brings to the classroom made my daughter love going to school everyday, and she was actually sad to ever miss school. She made us wish we could be in her classroom too. We have since moved and our daughter is unfortunately missing her second year with Mrs. Bivins. Telling our daughter we were moving was hard, but we didn’t realize it would be just as hard to tell Mrs. Bivins. Lots of tears were shed. Our whole family loves Mrs. Bivins! She always made us feel welcomed in her classroom, always communicated so openly and frequently, sent us pictures of our daughter reaching major milestones, and made sure we never missed a moment. She cares so much for her students and their families. Mrs. Bivins was truly born to be a teacher, and we will always be grateful that she has been a part of our Sydney’s integral years.

Natalie Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins has been my daughter teacher the last two years in 1st and 2nd grade. She has the most passion for her students! My daughter has came so far in the last two years! We are going to miss her so much after this school year.

Nancy Smith Posted over a year ago

Kristina is one of the most dedicated teachers I have taught with. She is a continuous learner herself, which shows in her constant drive to implement the best instruction for her students. She knows each student well and makes sure their learning and emotional needs are met. She is a true blessing to all of her students!

Randi Repetto Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins was so good to my son RJ! We had a parade in 2020 for his birthday and she was there!! She’s so loved by all of her precious students and previous parents. She is so deserving!!

Yanira Posted over a year ago

She was the teacher of my twins on 2nd grade. One of them has more problems with the reading and writing. But she never give up on her. She found her all the help that she needed. Including now too . My daughter still takes special classes. Because she is little behind. But thanks to her she’s now progressing.. she is the most loving, caring and patient human. She loves what she does. And i know im not the only person she has been helping out in school with kids. Ms Bivins deserves the world. Thank you so much Ms bivins for all the support , encouragement and love that you give to all of us.

Yanira Posted over a year ago

She will always be the best . In everything she does.

Kristie Poor Posted over a year ago

Kristina is an amazing teacher who loves her students like they are her own. Her love of teaching and passion for helping students reach their potential is evident each and every day.

Katie Brown Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivens is always cheerful and attentive to her students when I see her on campus! She is truly a wonderful part of Carrollton Elementary and you can tell her students have so much respect and appreciation for her and what she does.

Bridgette Stewart Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is truly amazing. She brings the best out of all her students. My son is in her class right now and he LOVES Mrs. Bivins. Her dedication is above and beyond.

Sheena Russell Posted over a year ago

Kristina is one of the most genuine teachers here at Carrollton Elementary School. She is the most focus when it comes to her students and their needs. She is the greatest.??

Leeann Allen Posted over a year ago

When I think of a passionate teacher, I think of Kristina Bivins. Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious to all her students. In her room students are transported to a different world where they feel loved, supported and empowered to learn. They grow academically but also in self confidence. Her joyful voice can be heard down the hall as her students are lovingly pushed to excel. She goes above and beyond to make learning hands on and practical. She shares her enthusiasm and cheerful disposition as she motivates students, colleagues and parents.

Amy Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is hands down the best person I've ever known. She has given back to so many children. She has met her calling. Most deserving of this life changing award!

Jasper Ivey Posted over a year ago

Ms. Bivins helped so much with my writing. She helped us to all learn what we needed to so we could get ready and be prepared for 3rd grade. She is very kind and honest. I miss having her as my teacher and been one of the best teachers I have ever had.

Ronda Ivey Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins was such a gift to us during a time of desperation and uncertainty. She helped our son excel and feel confident in himself to do the work. She helped us, as his parents, to know how to support him during his growth journey with dyslexia and dysgraphia. We were so blessed to have her as Jasper’s teacher. She will forever be family.

Kayla Nuqui Posted over a year ago

I worked alongside Mrs. Bivins and was always impressed with her ability to make learning fun! She provided our team with new, exciting ideas that could engage our students. She always had a positive attitude and could brighten your day! You can tell how much she truly enjoys her job and loves her students!

Megan Reeves Posted over a year ago

There is no one more deserving than Kristina. I’ll forever be grateful for the way you treated me coming into a new school. I appreciate you coaching me through foster care, teaching me the ropes of Sharp Creek and being the most positive person even on the hardest days. You are truly an inspiration in and outside the classroom! Thank you for all that you do!

Jessica Ivey-Smith Posted over a year ago

Kristina was my mentor teacher in my last semester of college in 2005 for my student teaching, and I couldn’t have asked for a better model! Even after all these years we have stayed in touch because she truly cares and builds relationships. She is truly a life changer of children AND those who get the pleasure of working with her. I can’t think of anyone more deserving.

Amy Boehms Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is an exceptional educator who tirelessly dedicates herself to meeting the diverse needs of her students. With a fierce drive to engage them through innovative incentives and creative approaches, she fosters a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Her passion and genuine love for her students not only inspire them but also create lasting connections, making her a beloved figure in the school community. She truly deserves to be honored for her unwavering commitment and impactful contributions to education.

Amy Boehms Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is an exceptional educator who tirelessly dedicates herself to meeting the diverse needs of her students. With a fierce drive to engage them through innovative incentives and creative approaches, she fosters a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Her passion and genuine love for her students not only inspire them but also create lasting connections, making her a beloved figure in the school community. She truly deserves to be honored for her unwavering commitment and impactful contributions to education.

Erika Krebs Posted over a year ago

I worked with Kristina as a teacher and requested her a teacher for my son in second grade because I knew she would provide a year with exceptional learning and even more exceptional memories. She has a true love of children and it shows in what she does every day. She is a kind, generous, fun, and hard working woman who my family will always love and be grateful for. She truly is the embodiment of a life changer.

Kerry Harbin Posted over a year ago

I have known Kristina since we were in college learning to become teachers together. I have kept in touch with her over the years and have been awestruck at the dedication she has to crafting everything perfectly for her students. The thoughtfulness, extreme creativity, and desire to inspire she possesses leaves a lasting impression on her students and those around her. She is a role model and leader for other educators. Kristina is a true Lifechanging educator!

David Butler Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivens was a K/1 teacher at our School, Sharp Creek Elementary, in the early 2000s. She created a wonderful, interesting and caring classroom environment where every student knew they were respected and cared for! She was a fabulous teacher and I used to love visiting her classroom to see what kind of instructional strategies she would be employing that day! Good Luck Kristina!

Andraea Allen Posted over a year ago

Always so helpful and cheerful to be around! I enjoy having her classes. She is a great teacher that instills great lessons into her students!

Dennis Bates Posted over a year ago

Well deserved! I had the pleasure to work with her as a Substitute Teacher. Kristina Bivins is an amazing teacher and parent. She treats her students with kindness, compassion and as if they were her own children.

Dawn George Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is an exceptional teacher. She works hard to build strong and meaningful relationships with her students and their families - the kind of relationships that don't just end after the children leave her classroom, but the relationships that last a lifetime. Mrs. Bivins goes above and beyond in all that she does to ensure that the students in her classroom get everything they need to excel academically, grow personally, and feel loved, supported and encouraged on a daily basis. She holds herself and her students to the highest standard possible, and she loves her students like they were her own. The learning environment in Mrs. Bivins classroom is one where children encourage and cheer on each other, they are engaged in fun and exciting lessons, and when another student struggles - they help each other. What an honor and privilege it is to watch her teach and learn from her.

Shakelia Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is not just a teacher; she’s an influencer who takes the time to get to know each and every one of her kids on a personal level so that she knows how to influence them. She loves and cares for them as if they were all her children no matter what.

Amy E Hilton Posted over a year ago

I taught with Kristina for many years . She was our team leader for our grade level. She always made learning FUN for the kindergarten students in so many ways. She had meaningful projects for them to complete and cooking activities for the letters of the week. On special days and for holidays she always planned hands-on activities for the students. They were activities that they will never forget. She works very hard to ensure that each student is learning. She has changed many lives and she is a teacher who will always have a place in her students' hearts. She is a dedicated educator.

Kinsley Riggins Posted over a year ago

Kyleigh said “she IS a life changer!” She is a phenomenal teacher and is loved by sooooo many!!!

Amy Ware Posted over a year ago

Kristina is a teacher who is "all in" with her students. She goes above and beyond to meet their needs. She makes everything fun and engaging. Her students love her!

Ryan McKinnon Posted over a year ago

Kristina is one of the most genuine educators I know. She gives 100% every day, and above everything else, she keeps her students as her number one focus. If there is anyone I could think of to be titled a "LifeChanger," she would fit the definition perfectly. Every student and colleague who has been in her presence has been positively impacted. She truly deserves this recognition.

Danielle Carter Posted over a year ago

I am absolutely blown away by the dedication, passion, and creativity of Ms. Kristina Bivins. I've had the opportunity to work with her as a fellow teacher on the same hall and now as an Assistant Principal in the same building. Ms. Bivins goes above and beyond every single day to create a positive, engaging, and inspiring learning environment for her students. It's truly evident that she invests so much time into planning lessons to make learning fun and exciting for students. The energy in her classroom is electric-students are always eager to participate, explore, and discover new things. What sets Ms. Bivins apart is the genuine connection she builds with each student and their family. Her caring nature extends beyond the classroom as she fosters strong relationships through regular communication, offering support, or just keeping up with students after they've left her classroom. Our school is lucky to have Ms. Bivins because she goes the extra mile every day to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and their families.

Work Posted over a year ago

Ms. Bivins is among the most passionate educators I've ever had the honor of working alongside. She loves her students, and she models enthusiasm for teaching and learning each and every day. Ms. Bivins is a master at holding herself and others to high expectations, and she is uniquely gifted with helping students meet individual goals.

Jessica Payne Posted over a year ago

Kristina and I are colleagues at the same school but not at the same grade level. I know she is a phenomenal teacher simply because each and every child who passes through my class who had her as a teacher sings her praises and tells me how amazing she is! She is always smiling and it is evident she has the best interest of all of her students!!

Lisa Fowlkes Posted over a year ago

Kristina is an amazing teacher. She is devoted to the children in her classroom. She takes the time to make her lessons fun and exciting while maintaining the rigor that the children will need to succeed. She is such a blessing not only to the students in her classrooms but also her fellow educators. A well deserved honor. So thankful for Kristina!

Catherine Griffith Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is a teacher that any mother prays their child has. She pours into her students daily and makes the small moments, BIG. She has a heart of gold, a true passion for learning, and is an exceptional teacher and friend!

Tracey Cleek Posted over a year ago

Kristina is pure, positive, ENERGY! She is passionate about life, loves her students immensely, and goes over and above for her student teachers. I get the chance to watch her teach a few times a year and always walk away impressed and humbled, and a little tired! Congrats Kristina! This is a well deserved honor!

Rachel Phillips Posted over a year ago

Kristina is an exceptional teacher. She does whatever it takes to help her students reach their goals. Truly deserving of this honor!

Batrina Coar-Pearsall Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is the real deal. If you looked up the true definition of a life-changing teacher her picture would be there. She taught both of my boys in Kindergarten and one of them was lucky enough to get her again in the second grade. She works hard and goes above and beyond to make sure her students learn and retain information. I can’t say enough about how fabulous she is and has always been. We love and miss you, Mrs. B. We wish you all the best!

Karen Wild Posted over a year ago

Kristina is an amazing teacher!! Her students are blessed to have her. She works to push each child to his or her maximum potential! Her room is magic!!

Kimberly Baker Posted over a year ago

She is a great teacher. She goes above and beyond for her students.

Lisanne Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins creates an environment for all students to learn. She plans engaging hands on activities that promote progress for her students. Her students have fun in her classroom while learning information in the rigorous standards. She goes above and beyond to reach each student at individual levels. Mrs. Bivins want each and every student that leaves her room to know that they are loved and made educational progress. She inspires other teachers to be their best.

Carol Grace Posted over a year ago

Kristina is an exceptional teacher and we are so proud of her and what she has accomplished. We love you very much, Mom & Dad

Regina Hytower Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is a great asset to Carrollton Elementary School. Her students grow by leaps and bounds due to her tireless work to dig into who they are academically and as a person. She takes the time to get to know every student and their families to serve them effectively. She is a popular name amongst parents when choosing a teacher for their most prized possessions. They trust her to care for them and push them to reach their highest potential. Her students all become published writers by leaving the school year with a printed book with their writing and drawings that they can cherish for years. We absolutely love Kristina and are grateful that she is a part of the CES family!

Dr Sarah Hawthorne Posted over a year ago

I am an education consultant/reading specialist who has trained hundreds of teachers in the past 25 years. After initial training, I spend several years observing in these teachers’ classrooms and monitoring the progress of their students. Mrs.Kristina Bivins ranks at the highest level of using each second of the school day to make certain that every child is mastering what is being taught. Her deep love for each student and great enthusiasm for teaching are both absolutely outstanding. I am not aware of any teacher who is more deserving of this recognition.

Samantha Gresham Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is a phenomenal teacher who is willing to go the extra mile for her students. Not only will she teach them (and do her best to make sure all of the kids understand what she is teaching) she will guide them, encouraged them and love them with all her heart. My three oldest children were lucky to have her as their teacher for kindergarten and second grade (my kids are now in 9th and 8th grade) and they still speak of her with high regard and love. The effort that she puts into her students is unmatched. All three of my children that she taught are very different from each other (including one that has autism) and she never treated any of them as less than the other but encouraged them equally in whatever way they needed and went well above any expectations that I, as a parent, could have had for her. She is an excellent model of how a teacher should be for our children.

Kristie Staples Posted over a year ago

I’m honored to get to teach along side Kristina Bivins each day. She goes above and beyond to ensure that the academic and social needs are met for all of her students. She encourages her students to believe in themselves as readers, writers, and mathematicians. They will be life long learners after having her. Her students encourage each other. She makes learning fun and students may not realize how much they’re learning because they’re so engaged. She’s also a wonderful teacher to her block students. She sits down with them to plan & makes sure they’re prepared to have a classroom of their own. Kristina is one of the most passionate teachers I know. She teaches from the heart and treats her students like they’re her own children. She’s amazing to watch her do what she loves.

Amy Murphy Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is a colleague and friend of mine. She is so energetic and fun! Mrs. Bivins loves her students as her own. They enjoy her engaging lessons and room transformations while gaining a love for learning. Mrs. Bivins builds strong relationships with her students so she can make the most out of her two years with them. Her students are a part of her family. I can see that they feel loved and valued. My son was blessed to have Mrs. Bivins when she taught in a different position, and we will always be thankful for the year he spent with her. She is a gift to Carrollton Elementary School!

Jamie Pavao Posted over a year ago

Kristina Bivins is dedicated, hard working, compassionate, and just a true role model for all. Her teaching practices are exemplary and it shows through her student growth not only academically, but as life long learners. I had the pleasure of student teaching in her room several years ago. The skills I learned helped mold me into the teacher I have become. She is a gem and so much fun to be around. She truly cares and puts her heart and sole into each and every person that walks into her room. I am so thankful for her and she is deserving of any and all awards because she is that good! I am so proud that I can associate myself with her and only wish I could have worked with her longer! The fact that I have now known her for 16 years says lot as we keep in touch and continue to share ideas. Congratulations Kristina! Keep being the light for your students and families!

Michaela Posted over a year ago

Mrs. Bivins is a remarkable teacher! I had the privilege of having her as my mentor when I first started teaching 9 years ago, and now she is someone whom I cherish dearly. She loves her students fiercely and is extremely passionate about teaching and helping her students grow- both academically and emotionally. Mrs. Bivins takes the time to create relationships that will last, and she builds on those relationships to help teach content. Any child who enters her classroom will leave as a better human because of she what she pours into them day in and day out. I am so blessed that I have had the honor and privilege of watching her teach, and also that I get to call her my friend!

Mark Bivins Posted over a year ago

I've had the joy of knowing Kristina since 2000. We began dating soon after, and married in 2005. Becoming a teacher was a dream of hers, I was so proud when that dream was realized. I was also excited for the kids she would meet, help and inspire. She truly was meant to teach, it's in her heart and soul. I've watched her at night, stay up for hours. Trying to find that perfect lesson plan. Hoping to reach those children that were struggling. Sacrificing family and personal time to help any child that was behind. She has shown me what unconditional love is. Her unwavering commitment ,to each child that walks in her room is amazing to witness. She has shown up for my than 20 years, and committed herself. With one hope, to leave each child with a love for education.

Alicia Clark Posted over a year ago

I’ve known Ms. Bivins since the beginning of her teaching career. She has always had a passion for teaching children. She dedicates most of her time and energy into her classroom with the planning of engaging lessons her students. She takes time to truly know the learners in her classroom. She is always positive and brings an exciting energy to her classroom and those around her. She is absolutely the best! As a teacher myself, I strive to be just like her.

Ellie Collerton Posted over a year ago

Being Mrs. Bivins’ student teacher is one of the best things that ever happened to me. I grew more than I ever could have dreamed of in the short time I was in her classroom. I walked into her classroom on the first day a nervous, inexperienced, self conscious teacher who was terrified to make mistakes. Mrs. Bivins showed me exactly what being an educator is. She showed me mistakes happen and that’s when the most learning happens. She made me realize how hard teaching is, but also how rewarding it is. Mrs. Bivins is a light in everyone’s life. She always has a smile and encouraging comment to push you up the hill. I do not know what kind of educator I would be if I had not met Mrs. Bivins and I am so grateful to God for brining such a powerful light into my career! She truly is a life changer!