LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Thaia Dorow Posted over a year ago

There is no one who defines "Life Changer" better than Wren Hayes, Director of Building Block Commons in Exeter, NH. She is fully present throughout the school and playground daily, and makes deep connections with each of her students. She knows every single one of their strengths, challenges, interests and dreams, and she is sure to include each and every one of them in the most in-depth planning of activities and events. She truly is the voice for all her students! From Pre-K to High School, there are so many opportunities where students learn together and support one another. Every student is accepted where they are, and students here are taught to really appreciate differences and to support one another in their growth. Curriculum is project-based and focused on competency learning, where all students are fully involved in how they learn, actively engaged in both planning, executing, participating and evaluating learning activities. She has truly created a unique environment where it is not uncommon for students from pre-k to high school to learn together. At the same time, in addition to interest based experiences, a rigorous curriculum sets the tone for older students where students are involved in the process of managing their own progress, masters of their own learning. Wren is also a Life-Changer for her school staff. On an ordinary day, Wren has high expectations of her staff not just in how they teach, but also in how they 'show up' for their classrooms of students. Whether it is a demonstration of high expectations for individual students and a commitment to foster the best learning environments where every student is valued, encouraged, and held to high standards; or whether it is an expectation that there is laughter in the classroom; or whether it is in the way teachers connect with families, Wren models these things for her staff. Even more so, though, has been the way she has been a hero for her staff most recently. Over the past few years, Wren has been challenged with significant health issues. She remains a strong, steadfast presence, a true role model defining commitment and dedication. She inspires all of us simply by showing up; her passion for creating a presence for her kids and staff is unwavering. She also is able to ask for help when needed, and shows her staff how trusting she is in their own abilities and judgement, and this ability to still be present but trust her people and delegate responsibilities is a hallmark of a true Life-Changer and Leader. Wren has been a source of inspiration and hope for all of us. Lastly, Wren is a Life-Changer in the community at large. She maintains a social presence on media, showcasing the daily happenings at Building Block Commons both within a school community private portal, and a larger community on social media pages. Throughout her toughest days, Wren has maintained a leadership presence in the world as someone who perseveres, cherishes her students and staff, and celebrates every accomplishment. Her communication is unwavering, and her trusting network of staff rises to the occasion with full admiration and respect, following the road of expectations Wren has paved for everyone. Wren has created a strong community within the school building, with families of her students, and with the outside community. Wren has built a school based on community; the school community is family, and we build it together. Not only has she had an impact on each and every student at Building Block Commons, but she also is a Life-Changer for her staff and for her community. Wren is so deserving of this award, and we appreciate you for considering her.