LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Judy Watkins was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Watkins strives to build a warm, safe, and respectful space where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. She greets each student at the door every day, making eye contact and connecting with them as they share the "Science Password of the Day," the title of her lesson for the day. This ritual sets a purposeful tone and reminds students they belong to a community of learners.

Ms. Watkins intentionally creates opportunities for private conversations in the hallway to address individual needs with care and confidentiality. Whether a student is struggling with something personal or simply forgot an assignment, she offers grace and support to help them feel safe and understood, not judged. Every student has a voice in their classroom. No idea is too "out there," and all contributions are treated with respect.

Ms. Watkins actively fosters a culture where students are not only encouraged to take academic risks but are also protected from ridicule and criticism. Creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking are celebrated. Students communicate with her in the ways they feel most comfortable, whether through whole-class discussions, small group conversations, one-on-one chats, hallway check-ins, or even email. Because they know she cares about their lives beyond the classroom, they often invite her to their games, performances, and musical events. This is a clear sign that they trust and value the relationship. This intentional focus on connection, flexibility, and mutual respect helps students thrive both emotionally and academically in her science classroom.

One of Ms. Watkins' most pressing classroom needs is composition notebooks. Since she doesn't use traditional textbooks in the seventh-grade science class, students rely heavily on their Interactive Notebooks (INBs) to organize notes, reflect on key concepts, answer prompts, and track their progress in learning. These INBs become an essential tool for success, especially since students are allowed to use them as a reference on assessments.

Unfortunately, many students lose or damage their notebooks during the school year. For various personal and financial reasons, they are not always able to replace them on their own. When this happens, it puts those students at a disadvantage academically and emotionally. Without a complete INB, they can fall behind, feel embarrassed, or become discouraged, especially during assessments or group discussions when others are referencing theirs.

To ensure every student has what they need, Ms. Watkins personally purchases and provides extra composition notebooks throughout the year. When she gives a student a new INB, she simply asks them to "pay it forward," and if their situation changes, they can bring in another notebook for someone else in need. Having a consistent supply of composition notebooks would not only ease the financial burden on her but also ensure a steady writing experience. It would also allow her students to stay engaged, feel supported, and focus on learning without unnecessary distractions.

Career Accomplishments

• Instructional Leadership: Served as a grade-level team leader and science department chair, supporting curriculum development, mentoring new teachers, and leading professional learning communities.
• Curriculum Design: Created and implemented engaging, standards-based science lessons and projects that support inquiry, critical thinking, and real-world application, including hydroponics and sustainability units aligned with grant requirements.
• Event Organization: Successfully planned and led school-wide events such as science fairs, musicals, and after-school enrichment programs, including student-led clubs and performances.
• Student Achievement Growth: Consistently helped students grow academically through data-informed instruction, individualized support, and a focus on social-emotional learning and classroom community.
• Grant & Program Management: Facilitated and implemented programs funded by the Green Our Planet Grant, including a 60-hour adult hydroponics training program, contributing to school sustainability efforts.
• Family & Community Engagement: Built strong relationships with families through clear communication, inclusive classroom practices, and active participation in student events outside of school (games, concerts, performances).
• Positive School Culture Advocate: Known for creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment where students feel empowered to take academic risks, share their ideas, and support one another.