LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Chasitie Holiday was nominated by an anonymous colleague who has worked with her for four years.

Miss Holiday's ability to work with students and adults in her district is amazing! Academically, she makes a positive difference in students' lives. She truly cares about these students and demonstrates this by her actions. She is very versatile. Currently, she is working as the only Assistant Teacher for third grade students.

Miss Holiday is kind, yet firm. Third grade can be a challenging time - the attitudes are stronger, and the physical schedule are harder than the younger grades.

"What I observe on a yearly and daily basis from the students is that they respect her," said her nominator. "Former third grade students say hello to her as they pass in the halls, and some of them even want hugs. We hug at our school and believe that it aids in the socio-emotional development of the students. Students willingly come to her for help as one would expect. She tells the students what they need to hear and not what they want to hear."

Miss Holiday is professional; she does her job and does not complain about it. She is a joyous person to be around on a daily basis. She holds before-school tutoring and runs a STEAM program. If she did not have high standards and have the trust of her colleagues, she would not have been given this extra responsibility. Many times throughout the day, she is doing the job of a regular teacher. Someone stepping into the classroom would not know that she is an assistant.

Miss Holiday's commitment is everywhere. What the students and other faculty do not see is that she spends her own money making her school a beautiful place in which to work and learn, and has bought clothes for students who needed it anonymously. She decorates the hallway with things she has bought or made.

"She has selflessly contributed to my musicals by helping with costumes and by doing make-up," said her nominator. "The students love it! I am grateful for her."

Miss Holiday also serves on the Leadership committee, where her lively, artistic input is valued. She is considered a "go-to" person on campus, but she still strives to become a better person and professional. During trying moments, she handles tension quite well.

"I have known her to follow her own advice. She uses scripture to help herself and is active in her family," said her nominator. "She is currently finishing her teaching degree while holding down a part-time job. It's amazing that she can juggle many things and keep it together. Her personal and professional experiences aid her in her teaching."