LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Colleen Coole

Position: Fifth Grade Math Intervention Specialist
School: Belle Aire Intermediate School
School District: Washington Court House City Schools
City, State: Washington Court House, OH

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Music that Describes Colleen

Colleen Coole was nominated by her colleague, Tara Grimm.

Three words to describe Mrs. Coole would be dedicated, empowering, and supportive. Mrs. Coole is the kind of teacher who not only changes the way students learn, but changes the way they see themselves, and in doing so, changes their lives. Mrs. Coole is an educator who changes lives every single day.

As an intervention specialist, she looks beyond academics to meet her students' personal, social, and emotional needs. When a new student arrived without shoes, she discreetly determined their size and found donations. This action restored the student's comfort and dignity.

Her classroom is a safe, structured space where even the most challenging students feel respected, supported, and motivated to grow. She prevents bullying, teaches citizenship, and helps students set and achieve meaningful behavior and learning goals. Every Thursday, her Tragedy to Triumph lessons inspire resilience by sharing stories of people who overcame hardship to achieve greatness.

Mrs. Coole's compassion, kindness, high expectations, and ability to connect with every child make her the model of what an educator should be. She fosters a love for learning, builds trust, and teaches life skills her students will carry forever. She doesn't just teach - she transforms lives.

Mrs. Coole's classroom is where respect, resilience, and hope take root, where every student learns they matter. For every child who needs a role model, Mrs. Coole is there. For that, she is genuinely a LifeChanger.

"It is an honor to observe and learn from her. I chose her as my mentor for my Master's degree program because she embodies qualities a true educator should have, including patience, empathy, fantastic communication skills, and an ability to inspire change. She sets the standard for what a truly exceptional educator is: someone who teaches with her mind and heart. Mrs. Coole's dedication to her students changes lives every single day," said Grimm.

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Comments (5)

Victoria Vallery Posted 10 months ago

It is with great honor and gratitude that I recommend Mrs. Colleen Coole for the LifeChanger of the Year Award. Mrs. Coole is the kind of educator every parent hopes their child will have—compassionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to the success and well-being of her students. Last school year, Mrs. Coole made a profound impact on my son, Coleston. He has autism, and school can often be a great challenge for him. Yet, from the very beginning, Mrs. Coole showed up for him in every way possible. She consistently went above and beyond—not only supporting him in the classroom, but also attending IEP meetings, advocating for his needs, and collaborating with other teachers to ensure he had the tools and opportunities necessary to thrive. What sets Mrs. Coole apart is her ability to see each student’s unique strengths and use them as a foundation for learning. She recognized Coleston’s love for drawing and incorporated it into his education, turning a special interest into a powerful motivator for growth. Because of her encouragement, Coleston not only gained confidence in the classroom but also began to dream bigger about his future—he now hopes to pursue his passion for art and maybe even become an animator one day. Mrs. Coole’s compassion and dedication extend far beyond academics. She teaches her students to be kind, to believe in themselves, and to never stop reaching for their dreams. She truly embodies the qualities this award represents: excellence, leadership, and a lasting positive impact on her school community. Washington Courthouse City Schools is incredibly blessed to have Mrs. Coole as part of their team, and I will forever be grateful for the difference she has made in my son’s life. She is without a doubt a LifeChanger.

Anne Walker Posted 10 months ago

Every once in a while, you meet someone who doesn’t just teach with their head—but with their whole heart. That’s my co-teacher Colleen Coole. Collen's compassion radiates through every word of encouragement, every patient moment, and every hug given at just the right time. She sees each child—not just for who they are today, but for who they can become. Driven, passionate, and endlessly determined, Colleen wakes up each day with one mission: to help every student become the best version of themselves. And she does it with grace, strength, and an unwavering belief in every single child. Our classroom is brighter because of her. Our students are stronger because of her. And I am better because I get to teach beside her.

Lisa Daniels Posted 10 months ago

Mrs. Colleen Coole is one of the most compassionate teachers I have known in my 30 years of working in schools. Mrs. Coole truly loves kids and does whatever is necessary to meet them where they are at and give them an environment where they can grow and thrive. She truly seeks ways, both in physical needs, academic needs, and social needs, to help them succeed and be the best they can be. Colleen is patient with even the most difficult student. She treats them with respect and shows them love, while at the same time staying firm on her expectations for them. Mrs. Coole, as a person, is always encouraging staff and students alike. She is definitely a teacher who is changing the lives of our students.

Sara New Posted 11 months ago

Colleen is one of those people who you will never forget once you've met her! She advocates for students in every aspect of their lives; educational needs, daily needs, emotional needs, even family and home needs. She encourages students and staff to dig in, have some grit, and put forth their best effort, even on hard days. Colleen takes the time to meet students where they are by getting to know them and giving them the support they need to be independent, successful learners. Staff and students are blessed by knowing her and working with her!

Kelly Maust Posted 11 months ago

Mrs. Coole is an outstanding teacher, leader and colleague. She goes above and beyond to ensure everyone has what they need to succeed in school and in life. I have been blessed to have her as a mentor both professionally and personally the past four years.