LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Dawn Grondin was nominated anonymously.

"Mrs. Grondin has got to be the hero of so many kiddos. I volunteer at her school, and these kids worship the ground she walks on—they'll follow her anywhere. Even students who aren't in her class or grade hop out of line to hug her, wave with excitement, and try to stay composed just to say hi," said the nominator.

She runs a tight ship rooted in play, humor, empathy, and the outdoors. Her classroom radiates a sense of respect and community. Because of this family atmosphere, the students take care of themselves, own their behaviors, and seek guidance without expecting easy answers. She instills confidence, empathy, and problem-solving in every single one of her students.

"When she goes out on weekends, students appear out of nowhere to shower her with smiles and hugs—she's more than just a schoolteacher to them. She meets their needs in countless ways, often at her own expense: providing daily snacks, STEM and outdoor learning supplies, and more. She even journals everything they accomplish throughout the year, capturing it in 'selfies' and portraits, which she prints and turns into personalized albums for each student to take home at the end of the year," said the nominator.