Stacey Higgins was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Higgins creates a positive classroom environment by consistently demonstrating respect for her students and expressing a deep belief in their potential. She fosters a growth mindset through regular conversations about the “Power of Yet”, reminding students that while they may not be able to do something yet, it’s only a matter of time and effort before progress is made. Her classroom motto, “Everyone makes mistakes, that’s why pencils have erasers,” is a guiding principle that students hear and internalize throughout the year.
Ms. Higgins uses this message to normalize mistakes as a natural and necessary part of learning. She models this mindset by openly acknowledging her own mistakes and showing students how to take responsibility and move forward with integrity. Her classroom is built on a foundation of encouragement, honesty, and resilience. Through her words and actions, she ensures every student feels safe to take risks, work through challenges, and grow. Her ultimate goal is for each student to leave her classroom feeling valued, educated, and loved.
I worked with Stacey many years at Ridge Elementary! While her expertise in curriculum and promoting confidence in her students is well known, I would like to praise her on supporting fellow staff members as well!! Truly, she is one of the brightest and giving staff members I encountered in my 35 years of teaching. She is due any honor bestowed on her!!!
Stacey is an amazing educator and community member. She's one of those people that you just have to wonder how they get it all done. She is always taking initiative to find ways to support students, like organizing district-wide literacy programs, getting donations to purchase books for her students, or organizing high school athletes to read to younger students. She's also one of the first to step up and help when something needs done in the community. Stacey is truly an asset to BG Schools and to the Bowling Green community.
When my son Aiden was in second grade, Mrs.Higgins was his teacher. She noticed that he showed signs of ADHD. We had him tested and put in medication. It resulted in him turning his academic performance around. From then on, school life changed for the better for him. We are indebted to Stacey Higgins for helping Aiden become successful, reaching his goals. Thank you.
Mrs. Higgins goes above and beyond for not only her classroom, but every child in the district. Through 1BookBG she helps literacy grow in our community. She makes each student feel loved and valued. In her building she is a role model and inspiration to her coworkers. We are so lucky to have her as part of our schools and community.
Stacy is outstanding in all areas of education, instructing and inspiring her students, their families, colleagues and community members.
I have worked closely and along Stacey for years. As a public librarian I have learned so much from her. She builds community and solid foundations for students. She is a leader and an advocate. Stacey is such a strong supporter of our library. She connects her students to valuable resources in our community as she herself builds them up. I am proud to work with her, trust her completely and truly enjoy her company!
Stacey is exceptional.
Congratulations on being nominated for the Life Changer of the Year Award. As a parent, I am incredibly grateful for the impact you have had on my child not just academically, but personally. Your kindness, commitment, and passion do not go unnoticed. Thank you for being such a positive influence.
From being a volunteer reading over the past four years in her room, I have been lucky enough to have seen the compassion Mrs. Higgins puts into her work. I’ve seen how enthusiastic her students are and how she can make them laugh. I have been able to watch the students make wonderful connections. Her motto of “No one is perfect that’s why pencils have erasers” shows just a little bit of how she gets to make every student feel comfortable. I have also had the unique opportunity to see Mrs. Higgins setting up her classroom, grading, thinking of fun ways to teach material, how many hours she spends at home working on schoolwork. Mrs. Higgins is one of the most dedicated people you’ll ever meet. I’m lucky enough to also call her mom.
Your care and commitment to your students is so wonderful! I especially appreciate the impact you had on my daughter. She was struggling and could have easily slipped through the cracks but you saw her. You really saw her and her potential and had the hard conversations with me to get her the help she needed! Forever grateful! Thank you!
Stacey was my mentor teacher ten years ago when I was a student teacher! I cannot express my gratitude for learning from such an incredibly empathetic and skilled educator. She taught me so much about strong instructional practices. More importantly, she showed me how to prioritize my students’ safety and well-being. Stacey leads with empathy and kindness, and her love for her students knows no bounds. Not only does she continue to make positive impacts on her own students, but she also positively impacts my students. I would not be the educator that I am if it were not for all that I have had the privilege of learning from her. I am so honored to know her. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of accolades and recognition.
Stacey Higgins was my son's second grade teacher. After being bullied in the first grade, my son was so fortunate to be placed in Mrs. Higgins's classroom. She encouraged him in all his subjects and provided a safe and supportive environment for exploring his own interests and ideas. He still remembers practicing spelling words and the trip to the schoolhouse. My son regained confidence and was even recognized as February's student of the month when he had Mrs. Higgins. She truly cares for every child placed in her classroom and encourages all to succeed. For my son, success for me was measured a win when he was brave enough to participate in the talent show and play piano in front of the whole school. My first grader wouldn't have had the courage or confidence, but after a year of hearing Mrs. Higgins's gentle support, he did it.
Sometimes we don't get the opportunity to thank people who have played such important roles in our children's lives, so I am truly grateful to be able to write on behalf of Stacey Higgins today.
She made a difference for my family and I know that she does the same for everyone who crosses her path. Bowling Green is lucky to have her and I am so lucky to know her. I can't think of anyone more deserving of this honor.
Congratulations to you an your success!! I'm sure its been a long road but all worth it. Tought me alot when I was a young kid! Now my son who goes to crim will enjoy your presence and guidance!! Thank you!! #BobcatPride
Thank you Mrs. Higgins for being a positive role model as Cassidy's teacher! She is always happy to see you in and out of the classroom!
Isabel is lucky to have you as her teacher this year. You have helped her gain confidence in her reading and have encouraged her to try to speak up and participate. I thank you for your support and open communication on how my daughter is progressing. Your advice on how to help her at home is also greatly appreciated it. Isabel loves going to school and I strongly believe your teaching approach and experience is what makes a difference. Thank you for all you do for the kids.
As a former student teacher, and current educator, in Mrs. Higgins classroom, I can absolutely attest that all of these things are true. From holding ALL students to an incredibly high standard, to encouraging them when they haven’t learned something YET Mrs. Higgins is an incredible teacher. On year 3 of my career, I continue to implement things that she taught me on a daily basis. I am so proud and grateful to have learned from an educator like her.
Thank you for all you do in the classroom and with 1BookBG! I've admired your work from afar for 10 years, and it has been a pleasure getting to know you as my son's classroom teacher this year. He tells me that your classroom is a "calm" place, and for him, that is the best possible kind of place.
I wanted to say congratulations! You are an amazing teacher and have help both Liam and currently Maddie be great readers and love school. We appreciate you so much and you deserve all the best.
Stacy was my son's teacher many years ago when he was in second grade. We were so lucky to have her! She identified that he might have ADHD and was a kind and caring teacher at every turn. She cares for EVERY kid in her classroom.
There isn't a better nominee.
Congratulations on your nomination, Stacey! Very well deserved! In addition to what the nominator wrote about you, I also want to give you kudos for all of the work you and Michelle do coordinating 1BookBG, a community-wide literacy program in Bowling Green, Ohio, that unites all public, private, and parochial elementary schools (K-5) by having students and staff read the same book simultaneously. The initiative encourages reading through in school activities, school visits by authors, "mission stop" activities at local businesses, and other community locations. Students can earn prizes for their activities. Through fundraising and grants, all students are able to get a book for free. Congratulations on 10 years of 1BookBG and on your Life Changer of the Year nomination! Good luck to you!!! #BobcatProud
