LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Bridget Hardiman was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Hardiman teaches a self-contained special education classroom for students with high support needs and disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and other processing disorders. For her, creating a positive classroom environment begins with building strong, meaningful relationships. She takes the time to truly get to know each student as an individual, recognizing that every child is unique and brings something special to the classroom.

Ms. Hardiman incorporates her students’ interests into both individualized and group instruction, knowing that engagement is key to meaningful learning. For example, when she had a student who loved Mario Kart, she designed math lessons using Mario-themed coins to capture their attention and make learning fun. She takes student interests seriously, understanding that when students are excited about what they’re learning, they’re more likely to feel confident, capable, and positive about their educational experience. Through this thoughtful, personalized approach, Ms. Hardiman creates a warm, inclusive, and encouraging environment where all students can thrive.