LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

DJ Nino Maputi was nominated anonymously.

Mr. Maputi believes creating a positive classroom environment begins with building trust, respect, and a sense of belonging for every student. He believes that students thrive when they feel safe, valued, and seen—not just as learners, but as individuals. To cultivate this environment, he establishes clear expectations rooted in empathy, fairness, and consistency. He greets the students each day with enthusiasm, maintaining eye contact, using their names, and celebrating even the most minor successes.

Mr. Maputi's classroom is culturally inclusive, with visuals, books, and activities that reflect the school community's diversity and honor each student's identity. He also prioritizes student voice and choice, whether that's by co-creating classroom norms, offering flexible seating arrangements, or allowing students to choose how they demonstrate their learning. Daily check-ins and restorative practices are used to build relationships and resolve conflicts constructively.

Most of all, Mr. Maputi shows students that he cares. He cheers them on, listens, and adapts. He reminds them that mistakes are welcome because learning is a journey. When students feel loved, empowered, and emotionally safe, they become more engaged and confident learners. That's the heart of a truly positive classroom, and the environment Mr. Maputi strives to create every single day.

Mr. Maputi is a dedicated educator with eight years of experience teaching elementary students. He currently teaches all subjects to third-grade students at Sandra Lee Thompson Elementary School in Las Vegas, Nevada. He brings a global perspective to the classroom and promotes multicultural understanding among students and their families. 

Mr. Maputi has demonstrated measurable student success, with high growth scores in MAP assessments during the 2024–2025 school year, reflecting effective, data-driven instruction. He has been recognized for choreographing and directing numerous cultural and school events, blending artistic expression with student engagement and pride in heritage. He has led family-focused initiatives that built strong home-school partnerships, created inclusive events, and fostered a collaborative school community.

Outside of school, Mr. Maputi is a pageant coach and community leader. He trained and mentored aspiring beauty pageant candidates and student performers, promoting confidence, discipline, and public speaking skills. He is also known for dynamic hosting and public speaking at school and community events, celebrations, and cultural programs, bringing energy, organization, and inclusivity to every stage.