LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Ashley Jenkins was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Jenkins establishes a positive classroom environment from the very first interactions she has with students and families. Her initial communication, including a thoughtful welcome letter, sets the tone for a year built on open, clear communication and a shared commitment to student growth. At Meet the Teacher night, she creates a welcoming atmosphere by ensuring the classroom is organized and inviting, giving students and their caregivers a chance to get comfortable with the space where so much learning will take place.

Ms. Jenkins goes above and beyond to ensure that all students have what they need to succeed. She offers free school supplies, such as paper, notebooks, and folders, collected over the years, making it clear that requesting materials is never a burden. Her classroom is a resource-rich, judgment-free zone where equity and accessibility are prioritized. From the first week of school, Ms. Jenkins introduces expectations around collaboration, discussion, and positive interaction through intentionally designed activities. These early routines allow her to model, guide, and reinforce the behaviors needed for a supportive learning community before diving into the core content.

She also pays close attention to the physical setup of the classroom, ensuring it remains clean, welcoming, and conducive to focused learning. Through her thoughtful planning and student-centered approach, Ms. Jenkins creates a space where every learner feels prepared, supported, and ready to grow.