Audrey Crosby was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Crosby fosters a positive environment by establishing clear rules, rituals, and routines that promote respect for the teacher, peers, and classroom materials. These expectations foster a structured and supportive space where students understand boundaries and feel secure. In addition to setting a respectful tone, she makes it a priority to build strong relationships with each student by getting to know them on a personal level. This helps every child feel safe, seen, and valued in the art room. When students know they are cared for and that their presence matters, they are more comfortable expressing themselves creatively and collaborating with others—essential elements for both personal and academic growth.
Her most pressing classroom needs are consumable art supplies, including various types of paper and a wide range of art media. With a large student population, these materials are quickly depleted, making it challenging to maintain a consistent and enriching art program. Access to diverse and plentiful supplies is essential for students to fully engage with the Georgia Standards of Excellence for Visual Art, which emphasize exploration, creativity, and the development of technical skills. When students have the opportunity to work with a variety of materials—from watercolor to collage to sculpture—they not only develop artistic confidence, but also critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Adequate supplies ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of visual arts education.
Throughout her 18-year teaching career, Ms. Crosby has been honored with several recognitions and opportunities that reflect her dedication to arts education. She has been named Teacher of the Year on three separate occasions, a testament to her commitment to student success and classroom excellence. In 2008, she was awarded Art Professional of the Year by the Greater Augusta Arts Council for her contributions to arts education and community engagement. She has also served as a contributing writer for a national art education magazine, sharing classroom strategies and advocating for the importance of visual arts instruction. Additionally, she has facilitated several out-of-town field trips to broaden students' exposure to the arts and co-facilitated an educational trip to Europe, offering students a unique global perspective on art and culture.
Mrs. Crosby was my art teacher in high school and she helped set me on my path on pursuing art much more seriously. I went on to get my BFA and MFA in the arts because she encouraged, challenged, and illuminated me. Yes, she is a visual arts educator, but she is so much more than that in her field. Mrs. Crosby is Joy and Light embodiment. I've seen her change lives in my school beyond me. She cares about her students and it's easily noticed. She supports her students and you can feel love from that support. She is a phenomenal human being and educator.
Ever since I was a kid, Audrey has been such an inspiration to me. She carries a beautiful soul, and I’ve always loved being around her. She has a genuine love for people, and it’s clear in the way she cares for the kids she works with. Audrey doesn’t just show up for her job—she creates an atmosphere that is uplifting and full of life. More than that, she sets an example and paves a path for the future.
Being a teacher is one of the most impactful roles because children spend so much of their lives in school. Teachers can either leave a lasting impact or leave scars—and Audrey is the kind of woman who always makes an impact for the good. She pours out love, kindness, and guidance in every season, shaping lives in ways that go far beyond the classroom.
Ms. Crosby has truly been a beacon of positivity for her students. She cares deeply for them, and it shows in the way she teaches and interacts with each one. It’s clear that they recognize this, not only by the way they respond to her in class but also through the trust, creativity, and confidence they show under her guidance. In her art class, students are given the space to be their true selves—free to express their thoughts, ideas, and emotions through their work. Ms. Crosby fosters an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and inspired to explore their unique artistic voice.
Audrey Crosby has a beautiful spirit. Wherever she is, in whatever she does, there is positivity and sincerity. Her loving energy for teaching is exemplified through her classroom projects, school displays and the unique field trip opportunities she affords her students. Her Christianity guides her decisions for her classroom. She will put this grant to good use.
Having known Audrey Crosby for over 30 years, she has consistently exemplified grace and integrity mingled with wit and warm humor. With a dedicated and patient spirit, Audrey is no doubt the correct choice for the back-to-school grant. She will most definitely put the funds to good work for her students!
Audrey is one of the kindest, most thoughtful person I know. She gives 100% in whatever she does. Audrey is not only a life changer, she is a Christian who depends completely on the Lord. She walks by faith every day and is an example to all of us.
Mrs. Crosby is an exceptional teacher who deserves the LifeChanger of the Year Award. As an inner-city art teacher, she not only inspires her students to be their best but also creates a warm, secure, and supportive space for them to express themselves.
Her dedication to her students shines through in her lessons, and her passion is inspiring. She believes in each student's potential and encourages them to fearlessly embrace their artistic voice. Mrs. Crosby is a true role model for her students and colleagues alike.
Mrs. Crosby, your gift is more than teaching art—it’s inspiring hearts. The way you encourage your students to see the world in color, to dream big, and to believe in their own creativity is truly special. You’re shaping confidence, joy, and imagination in ways that will last a lifetime. Most importantly your instilling hope. Too often marginalized schools and the students who attend them are unfortunately forgotten but because of you, our community is brighter. Thank you for your unrelentless drive in turning that flicker of hope into a blaze of glory!
I’ve had the privilege of working with Mrs. Crosby for over a year now and I can’t help but to have a smile on my face as I do so.
Audrey is selfless, productive, creative, nurturing, and treats every student and faculty member with respect and grace.
She has changed my life and I’ve witnessed her igniting sparks in students and passions they will carry with them for years to come.
Amazing human being, teacher, mentor, mother, person I’ve ever come across. Grateful that I had her as a teacher & a lifetime mentor / friend. Her way of teaching is graceful & kind. Best teacher I’ve had.
She’s very positive, encouraging and creative!
LifeChanger of the Year is a very appropriate title for Audrey Crosby to be nominated for.
She has exemplified what it means to be a teacher who has indeed changed lives for 20 years. Her students past and present constantly attest to this.
She is a woman of character and integrity who takes her career as an Art Teacher very seriously.
It is my sincere belief that Audrey Crosby is the perfect choice to win this nomination. For She will certainly put the back-to-school grant to good use.
