LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Marissa Montoya was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Montoya creates a positive classroom environment by building strong relationships with students starting from the very first day of school. She takes the time to get to know each student individually. She uses a positive reinforcement system to encourage desired behaviors and celebrate student successes. She teaches with respect and empathy, helping students understand responsibility and experience natural consequences in a supportive way. She also models healthy emotional regulation and creates a space where all emotions are acknowledged and processed constructively. Most importantly, she fosters a classroom atmosphere where joy is present, students feel safe to themselves, and everyone is valued for who they are. In first grade, emotions can be very big and sometimes overwhelming. She uses read-alouds and discussions to help students understand, name, and process their feelings in a safe environment.