LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Ericalee Perez was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Perez creates a positive classroom environment by fostering mutual respect, celebrating diversity, and prioritizing emotional safety. She builds strong relationships with her students by listening to their needs, offering consistent encouragement, and creating routines that give them a sense of stability. Her classroom is a space where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow at their own pace.

Ms. Perez created a classroom inclusion program for students with autism that significantly improved engagement and communication. She leads professional development workshops for fellow educators on sensory-friendly strategies. She has also been recognized by parents and school administration for fostering a positive and safe learning environment for neurodiverse students. Finally, she built an online educational platform and social media presence (@mrs.perez_educa on Facebook) to share strategies and support families of children with special needs.