Amber Vakoc was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Vakoc creates a positive classroom environment by greeting each student by name at the door with a high five, a smile, or a little dance. She and her students start with a quick morning meeting to build community, review the day's goals, and conduct a brief check-in (such as a feelings thermometer or a thumbs up or thumbs down response). They help create a set of clear expectations that are visual and can be referred back to when needed.
Ms. Vakoc encourages a growth mindset, showing that mistakes are part of the learning process, not a disaster for the day. Once students understand that it is okay to make mistakes, they can move forward and learn from them. Everyone is welcome in her room. When students need help, have a question, or express a concern, they will always be addressed and supported.
The most critical and pressing need for Ms. Vakoc's classroom this school year will be meeting students where they are and helping them grow from there. Returning to the Life Skills classroom is both exciting and rewarding. Her class will include students from different grade levels with a wide range of learning styles and abilities. One of her goals is to build a learning environment that encourages independence and supports students in completing tasks from start to finish. She hopes to add materials and tools to the classroom that promote self-starting and task completion, empowering each student to take ownership of their learning. The items on her wish list are just a small start of the items that will help her for this school year and beyond.
One of Ms. Vakoc's proudest career accomplishments is ensuring that every student in the classroom learns at least one new skill or concept each day—something meaningful they can take home and share with their loved ones. She believes that even the smallest steps forward are significant. While we do encounter challenging days where progress may feel like it's moving backwards, she views these moments as tremendous opportunities to reflect, learn, and grow. Her focus is always on creating a safe and supportive environment where students can learn from their experiences and continue to move forward. Every day presents an opportunity to foster resilience, independence, and growth.
Having known Amber Vakoc all her life, she is remarkably calm and collected when it comes to educating the youth of the future, Amber began at an early age, being the eldest of six, then continued with being a babysitter, child care of children of all ages. As a teenager she continued to educate the population as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. Amber has also coached basketball and received a CDL license to transport her team to away games by driving the bus. For the last twenty plus years, Amber is in classrooms that are constantly being a challenge for her to reach her special needs students and working with the family to keep them engaged as well. Seeing each, really seeing, every student for who they are, the challenges they face and working with each individually. Together making sure they are able to achieve goals they never imagined was possible. Her ability to be so positive, CAN DO, has encouraged both her peers, students and their families to take the initiative to continue their journey to achieve and be successful by putting the “FUN IN FUNDAMENTALS “. A truly inspiring, positive spirit and very passionate educator.
After reading the qualities, skill set and loving soul that a Life Changer needs to have, I know Amber Vakoc is a perfect fit to become the "Life Changer of the Year."
I have known Amber since she and my cousin, Terry, met about 14 years ago. It didn't take long for me to learn what a friendly, caring, hard working, morally straight and loving person she was. A joy to be around! Although I never was a co-worker of hers in the classroom, I heard her talk many times about how she cared for the kids she worked with. It was evident to me that she was passionate about giving her students her best effort to make sure they could achieve their best under all circumstances. Her work ethic is A+ bar none. Since she and my cousin eventually married, my whole family and I are so pleased that we have her as "one of us!!"
I know there is no other nominee for this "Life Changer of the Year" award that will outshine or be more deserving than Amber Vakoc. Thank You!
Valerie Walser
I have known Amber for more than 15 years. She is a hard working, dedicated, caring, supportive, patient, knowledgeable, passionate teacher and co-worker. She is always aware of what is going on and finding ways to help & support others. She would give the shirt off of her back to help anyone in need. The students are part of her family and she wants them each to thrive both individually & as a group; always going above & beyond to help others. We are Blessed to know & work with her.
Amber is amazing! She goes above and beyond to take care of those around her.
Amber Vakoc is the absolute best teacher my son has ever had! I wish all teachers were as wonderful, caring, and involved as she is. My son thrived for the years he was being taught by her. When I was stuck at the hospital with him for a couple of weeks, she brought us care packages with food, and drinks so I wouldn’t have to leave his room, or spend all of my money on hospital machines. She had the class make him cards for his room walls. She keeps up with him still, years after he moved to the next school. She teaches with love in her heart for each student, and that is very rare, and special these days. We love her! I hope she wins because she deserves it! Thank you!
I am honored to support Amber Vakoc’s nomination for LifeChanger of the Year. I have had the privilege of working with Amber at Globe Life Field, home of the Texas Rangers, where she has been a valued member of the Guest Services team for over 22 years.
Amber’s dedication, positivity, and professionalism set her apart. She consistently greets every guest and coworker with warmth and a genuine smile, making people feel welcome and appreciated. Her outgoing nature, strong work ethic, and commitment to the mission create an environment where both fans and colleagues feel valued.
Amber is not just a reliable teammate—she is a role model. Her ability to stay upbeat and focused even during the busiest, most challenging events inspires everyone around her. I have no doubt that her influence extends far beyond the ballpark, touching countless lives in meaningful ways.
Amber Vakoc embodies the spirit of a true LifeChanger, and I wholeheartedly support her for this well-deserved honor.
I have been working with Amber for the past 5 years at GLF and can honestly say I find no one with a more positive attitude and mindset then Amber. Her dedication to fans and co- workers exceeds any standard's or expectations and it is a pleasure working with her.
I am happy to see Amber recognized for her unwavering dedication and exceptional hard work. This nomination is a testament to Amber's commitment to her students and her school. This grant will enable her to further cultivate the growth she inspires in her students daily.
I don't believe I've ever seen Amber without a smile on her face. Her warm, outgoing personality would help encourage one's true light to shine, from even the most timid student! Amber is a natural when it comes to guidance, assistance, encouragement, patience, and support.
Amber definitely has a life changing impact for the better for all those she works with.
Having worked with Amber as a job coach, I have observed that she is a very hard working and puts her whole soul into her passion of helping her students succeed. Amanda is very caring and committed teacher. She’s one always that goes the extra mile!
I whole heartedly support Amber Vakoc. Compassionate and dedicated.
Amber has a big heart ?? and is more than deserving of this grant to benefit her beloved students.
Amber has a vibrant, caring & loving personality! Her work is greatly appreciated, teachers have a big influence and can help shape us into the person we become. Well deserved!
I agree to all the comments listed above which describe what an awesome person Amber is. She radiates joy and positivity. I know she would greatly appreciate this award to help set her kids up for success.
I know Amber from church, and she is a dear friend. We serve in the same ministry group, and she is a very positive lady with such a cheerfulness that is contagious. She is so happy and greets those she meets with a warm and welcoming smile. Quick to help anyone with anything. She is very engaging and so very kind. She has an infectious laugh that lights up the room. I'm not surprised that she was nominated for life changer of the year. She totally deserves this award. Amber is an absolute delight to be around and exudes a happiness and confidence that easily spreads joy no matter what she does or who she is around. She deeply cares about connecting with people and it shows.
She is very good, patient she is the best very caring person.
She is a wonderful and I know that she is the best person for the opportunity to succeed. She has great talents and understanding patience.
She is good with people M P
Amber has a wonderful soul and heart. She loves her students.
Mrs. Vakoc is an exceptional teacher whose care for her students runs deeper than words can express. She consistently supports and encourages them, helping each one strive toward their goals. Her dedication is evident in everything she does, giving her full effort to every student she teaches. Beyond academics, she guides them in becoming not only better learners but better people. Her passion for teaching shines through in her work, and her presence brings positivity and joy to those around her.
I have known Amber since the day she was born and have watched her grow and develop into the amazing caring and compassionate teacher that she is today. She has a heart of gold always wanting everyone to be their best selves! She is in the perfect profession and I am sure a blessing to her students! I believe she would use the grant for the greatest needs of her students.
Amber has a strong passion and an innate drive to provide all that she can for her students. She always has an upbeat energy that allows every student to feel welcomed as they are. She is creative and always tries to think outside the box to accommodate and drive her students to their next level.
Amber creates a positive and welcoming classroom where she meets each person where they are as individuals. She encourages all to explore and stretch to meet opportunities and goals through supportive feedback and a guiding hand. We are fortunate to have her in our family, community, and classroom.
Amber has been a Friend of Our Family since She came into this world. My Kids grew up with Her Sisters and Brother and Amber was a leader then and now. We catch up now and then living in Pa and Yinzers also love our Black and Gold from Pittsburgh. Great values instilled and learned carried Her thru High School and College and continue this day to Her Students in Texas. Please consider Her for this opportunity!
Amber is a wonderful and caring woman. She gives her all to her students. You can count on Amber to utilize the grant in the best way possible for her students. Congrats Amber you deserve this recognition.
The first time I met Amber was at a math training over the summer. As soon as she found out we'd be working at the same campus, she immediately offered her contact information and told me to reach out anytime with questions or anything I might need. She began filling me in on all the helpful things a new person would want to know. The second time we crossed paths was again over the summer while we were setting up our classrooms. She had been working hard all day in the Texas heat (with no AC!), and yet she stopped what she was doing to make sure I had everything I needed. She even offered me her fans and showed me where to find supplies as I was taking over her position.
Amber is a true helper by nature and has such a servant's heart. I feel incredibly blessed to have her on my team and to work alongside her this year. She is absolutely deserving of the Life Changer of the Year recognition!
Amber is an amazing person and an awesome teacher. She would make great use of this grant and her students would benefit the most.
I agree with all the statements above. Amber truly cares for her kiddos and wants each and everyone of them to be successful. I believe that Amber definitely deserves being nominated for life changer of the year!
Amber is just pure Awesomeness! I have known her since 2007. She has been a friend and mentor through the years. I have seen her with her students and their wonderful educational growth, and confidence building. She has and continues to help our next generation of children blossom. I am so glad to know her and call her a friend.
Amber & I have known each other since 2006 and worked at the same school till I retired 2018. We have continued being a part of each others life. They're apart of our family (our Bonus Blessing.) She loved,cared about her students, fellow worker. She is amazing and loved????????
I concur, Amber is a wonderful teacher and has changed many lives for the better. Keller ISD is lucky to have her bring her everlasting joy and friendliness to the classroom/school.
Amber has always been upbeat and a positive influence on others. As the oldest of six children she helped to care for her siblings. She was also a good influence on her younger cousins.She was a natural to become a teacher.
I believe that Amber Vakoc definitely deserves being nominated for life changer of the year! Not only did I get the privilege to work with her in Azle ISD , I got the joy of calling her a friend. She is the kind of teacher who always has something positive to say to everyone. She has an infectious laugh. You can't help but feel good around her. She helped me grow and supported me so much as an educator.
Amber is an amazing human being!! We have known her for around 28 years since my son was an infant and she taught him how to swim. She is known for her hard work, enthusiasm for everything she does, she’s dependable, ethical,
considerate and always there to help if needed! I can’t say enough good things about her personally and professionally! No one is more deserving!
Amber, you are one of the most caring and enthusiastic teachers I've ever known! You really care and make a difference with the students, individually, and are very supportive of your team of teachers, too. You are also quick to catch on to new ideas, careful to learn how to do things correctly, and your intelligence shines through. Never lose your tenacity, spirit, and caring nature!
Amber is truly a ball of SUNSHINE! She has a way of bringing so much positivity into anything she puts her mind to! She has the ability to inspire you to do better. She is selfless and so deserving of this opportunity! She blesses others where ever she goes and her students are so lucky to have be their teacher. She makes the world a better place for all!
Congrats Amber. You deserve it. You are an amazing person and this is a great honor. The children you teach are blessed to have such a wonderful teacher.
I had the privilege of working alongside Amber as both a colleague and fellow educator, and I can say without hesitation that she is one of the most dedicated and compassionate professionals I’ve known. Her ability to connect with students, inspire growth, and lead with empathy is unmatched. Amber brings not only skill and knowledge to the classroom, but also heart—and that’s what sets her apart. She leads by example, uplifts those around her, and always puts students first. This nomination is a well-deserved recognition of her impact
Amber is a caring and dedicated teacher. She gives her all to the students each day. She spends many extra hours preparing for each student's individualized needs and preferences. She is an excellent teacher.
Amber would be a great candidate for this grant, and it would support her wonderful special ed kiddos.
