LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Kellie Harris was nominated anonymously.

As a teacher, Ms. Harris strives to create a strong classroom environment by setting clear expectations from the very beginning. She establishes simple, consistent rules and routines that foster respect, responsibility, and a sense of safety. Building relationships is a priority for her. She learns her students' names quickly, takes time to understand who they are, and checks in regularly to show that she cares. She works hard to create an inclusive space where every student feels seen and valued, and she addresses disrespect or exclusion promptly.

Ms. Harris designs learning experiences that are active, engaging, and relevant to her students' lives, while encouraging them to ask questions, collaborate, and think critically. Her classroom is organized and welcoming, with student work proudly displayed and materials ready to support a productive flow. She also gives students voice and ownership by offering choices, listening to their feedback, and encouraging leadership opportunities. Above all, she often reflects on what's working and remains flexible so she can continue to meet the evolving needs of her students.

One of her most pressing classroom needs is access to a wider variety of high-quality books and basic classroom supplies. Many of her students are eager to read, but the classroom library is limited and outdated, with few titles that reflect their interests, backgrounds, or reading levels. She aims to offer culturally diverse, age-appropriate books that not only foster literacy skills but also help students see themselves and others reflected in the stories they read. Having access to engaging fiction and nonfiction texts would support independent reading, small-group instruction, and classroom discussions that foster critical thinking and empathy.

Ms. Harris has received her national STEM Certification and is currently pursuing her Gifted Endorsement to further support advanced learners in her classroom. Her commitment to academic excellence has also been reflected in student outcomes. Her math team earned the third-highest scores in Carroll County on state testing, and she has been recognized multiple times for achieving the highest growth in her grade level based on her students' quarterly math diagnostic scores.