LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Kara Juillerat was nominated anonymously.

Ms. Juillerat creates a positive classroom environment in many ways. Students know if they need school supplies, clothing, food, hygiene items, or other items, they can let her know, and she can assist with their needs. She writes grants, connects with community partners, and helps coordinate the Empower Youth food bags for students in the district. Her school has a Warrior Closet, and she helps keep the closet stocked with items for students.

As Developmental Assets Coordinator, she helps plan mental health fairs and other events to meet mental health and safety needs. As students complete projects and earn technology certifications, they get a punch in their reward cards. Students have fun earning rewards for their punches and bigger rewards for milestone punches while adding certifications to their dashboard and resume. Students get excited when they get to connect their technical classroom curriculum to real-world experiences by taking trips to area colleges and businesses. They get to explore careers and start planning their future in middle school. 

Ms. Juillerat has a strong background in special education, with a Bachelor's degree in Educational Studies from Grand Canyon University and ongoing graduate studies in Special Education. She currently teaches in a third-grade self-contained classroom, where she supports students with a range of academic, behavioral, and sensory needs. Throughout her career, she's created individualized learning plans, led IEP meetings, and collaborated closely with therapists and families to ensure student success. She's seen measurable growth in both academic and social-emotional areas, primarily through structured literacy, sensory supports, and behavior strategies. Her work is driven by a commitment to building trust, fostering independence, and creating an inclusive, nurturing classroom where all students can thrive.