LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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John Chandler

Position: Ninth Grade Social Studies/AVID Elective Teacher
School: Santa Rita High School
School District: Tucson Unified School District
City, State: Tucson, AZ

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Music that Describes John

John Chandler was nominated by a colleague, Kristin Strong.

"Mr. Chandler is a second-career teacher who immediately impacted students on our campus. After many years working as a lawyer, Mr. Chandler decided to change his life and give back to his community by becoming a high school teacher and coach. He changes the lives of his students by providing a safe and loving community for them to learn, hang out, or play baseball. His students are frequently seen asking for his advice, even those he no longer has in class," said Strong.

Mr. Chandler cares about students, even taking on extra work and responsibilities to ensure that they are getting the best possible educational experience. He became an AVID elective teacher to fill a mid-quarter opening, giving up precious planning time. When a student comes to him with a need, whether academic, social, or physical, he finds a way to help that student.

He is tireless in his preparation for his classes, which are not easy since he teaches the youngest high school students every day. Ninth- and tenth-graders are not known for their inherent interest in history, but he somehow manages to devise innovative ways to engage students in learning. He is that rare individual who has that special something that endears both students and faculty alike to him. 

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Comments (7)

Ryan Posted over a year ago

Mr. Chandler's patience and persistence in encouraging student of all backgrounds and helping them navigate challenges and prepare for the furure is changing lives for the better. He puts in the work, every period, every day, with a smile, a helping hand and an attentive ear.

Tish Posted over a year ago

Mr. Chandler goes above and beyond for his students, every single day. He is truly one of a kind. If there is one person that greatly deserves this recognition, it is this man.

Ryan Posted over a year ago

Every intelligent and charismatic teacher and an even better coach of the game of baseball. Checks all the boxes for a life changer of the year!

Bob Hertel Posted over a year ago

I've known John for 37 years, since we met in college. He's an extremely caring person with a good heart. I am so proud of his new career as a teacher. The way he talks about his students shows his dedication to their education and development. Way to go, John!

G Simon Posted over a year ago

John Chandler is the best! Hope he wins!

Kate DuBose Posted over a year ago

I have known John for 20 years. He always been a tremendous influence on the people around him. He doesn’t know how to give up on someone and his dedication to these lucky students is just another way he has shown his ability to positively change the lives of the young community he involves himself in. He speaks with endless excitement and enthusiasm about his students and how they progress from year to year. He wants nothing more than to see every student feel like they are important and give them the tools to succeed. It’s no small task. And he strives for it constantly.

Nadia Posted over a year ago

Mr. Chandler is the GOAT!!!