LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Audra "Nikki" Mitchum was nominated by Sonia Santana, the parent of a student.

Mrs. Mitchum is everything you hope for in a teacher: compassionate, creative, and genuinely invested in her students' success. She goes out of her way to create a warm and welcoming classroom, using her own money to purchase items such as bean bags, hammocks, and puzzles, allowing kids to learn in fun, flexible ways that meet their needs.

"What touched our family the most was how she supported my son, who struggles with severe anxiety and shyness. She noticed right away that he was falling behind because he was too afraid to speak up or ask for help. She didn't ignore it; she reached out to us, brought in the school therapist, principal, and other staff, and worked with us to build a plan to help him thrive. She even got him into a special program to help him become more socially open. Mrs. Mitchum didn't have to do all that, but she did, because she believes every child deserves a real chance. Her kindness and dedication have helped transform my son's life and academic pursuits, and I am confident that she'll do the same for many others. She truly deserves this award," said Santana.