Alisa Westover
Position: Fourth Grade Teacher
School: James A. Garfield Elementary School
School District: James A. Garfield Local Schools
City, State: Garrettsville, OH
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Alisa Westover was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Westover creates a positive classroom environment by building strong, trusting relationships with her students. She takes time to get to know each child as an individual, learning about their interests, strengths, and challenges so they feel seen, heard, and valued. She holds daily morning meetings to help foster a sense of community and connection, setting a tone of respect and collaboration for the day ahead.
She understands that children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and engaged. She incorporates brain breaks throughout the day to help students reset and refocus, acknowledging their developmental need for movement and variety. She also prioritizes student voice and choice, especially when it comes to their learning and seating arrangements.
Allowing students to choose where and how they work best increases their ownership of learning and promotes comfort and confidence in the classroom. Equally important is her belief in setting high, yet realistic expectations. She recognizes that her students are children who are still learning not only academics but also how to navigate the world around them.
Ms. Westover treats academic and behavioral mistakes as opportunities for growth rather than reasons for judgment. She works to create a culture where everyone supports one another and learns from their experiences. Ultimately, her goal is to cultivate a classroom where every student feels respected, empowered, and motivated to do their best. Through intentional relationship-building, structured routines, and responsive teaching, she aims to nurture a positive environment that helps every child thrive.
As a teacher in a rural district in Ohio, she sees firsthand the challenges many of her students face each day before they even walk into the classroom. Many of her students are being raised by their grandparents or live in single-parent households where caregivers are working long hours to make ends meet. Because of these circumstances, students often arrive at school without basic supplies like pencils, folders, or notebooks. It's a constant need in her classroom, and meeting it is essential so students can feel prepared and equal to their peers. Beyond materials, what they truly need is a classroom that feels like a safe, welcoming space—a place they want to come to every day, not just where they have to go.
With over 20 years of experience in education, she has had the privilege of teaching in four diverse schools and every grade from Kindergarten through fifth. Each grade level—and every child—has left a lasting impact on her. She has loved them all for their uniqueness and the joy they bring to learning. Her career has been rooted in both passion and perseverance, balancing life as a single mother of three while dedicating herself to creating meaningful learning experiences for her students. Whether in the classroom, at conferences, or in community programs, she has always believed in the power of connection, innovation, and student-centered learning.
Professional Accomplishments:
- Presented at multiple educational conferences, including the Reconceptualizing Early Childhood Education Conference, the Lodge Approach Conference on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation, and a booth presentation at the ISTE Technology Conference
- Invited to teach 10 separate sessions at the Kent State AT&T Technology Enriched Classroom with K–4 students
- Honored by a former student at her Senior Honors Banquet as her most influential educator, an unforgettable recognition that highlighted the long-lasting impact of relationships and mindset over academics
- Advisor for Girls Who Code, empowering young girls in STEM and leadership
- School Newsletter Editor for 4th grade, promoting student voice and classroom communication
- Assistant Advisor for her school's elementary running club, encouraging health, teamwork, and perseverance
- Experienced private tutor, supporting individual learners outside the classroom
These accomplishments reflect her deep commitment to education, equity, and the lifelong success of her students—both inside and outside the classroom.
Alisa was my mentor teacher during my senior year of student teaching in the kindergarten room at the Kent State University Child Development Center. I had the honor of working in her classroom for an entire year and it was such a wonderful experience. I learned so much about how to use students’ interested to lesson plan. Alisa was a great mentor and she is more than deserving of this award.
I feel incredibly lucky to be learning from Ms. Westover during my student teaching. Her commitment to building strong, trusting relationships with each student creates a classroom where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported. She balances high expectations with kindness and encourages student voice and choice, helping learners build confidence and ownership over their education.
Ms. Westover’s ability to create a safe, welcoming environment, especially for students facing challenges outside of school, is truly inspiring. She not only fosters academic growth but also nurtures students’ social-emotional well-being with care and intention. Watching her teach with such heart and purpose has been a profound learning experience, and I know her positive impact will last long beyond the classroom.
I have known Alisa for over 10 years and have always been amazed by her dedication to her students. The excitement and positivity she brings to each of her lessons inspires her students to work harder and do better. The confidence she helps build in her students carries on to their other classes. Alisa gets really excited about learning new applications and sharing them with her students. She is usually one of the first teachers to try a new teaching tool in her classroom. She tries new things even if they are difficult and celebrates with her students when they are successful.
Alisa is a great teacher and would have loved to be my children's teacher.
Ms. Westover is the kind of teacher every student deserves. Her classroom is more than just a place to learn! it's a safe, welcoming space. She truly knows her students and meets them where they are, not just academically but emotionally and socially as well. Her dedication to building strong relationships, creating a supportive environment, and giving students ownership of their learning is inspiring. She's not just teaching content, she's shaping confident, compassionate individuals. I’m so glad to see her recognized for the incredible impact she’s made over the years. She absolutely deserves this award!
I have had the privilege of working with Alisa Westover through her many years as an AT&T Classroom teacher, and I can say with confidence that few educators embody the spirit of innovation, creativity, and dedication to student learning as deeply as she does. Alisa has participated in our program more times than any other teacher in our 27+ year history—a true testament to her lifelong commitment to professional growth and excellence in teaching. Her passion for integrating technology and hands-on learning ignites excitement and curiosity in her students, and her enthusiasm is contagious to all who work with her. Alisa approaches every experience with joy, professionalism, and a genuine love of teaching that inspires both her students and colleagues. She is, without question, a life changer in every sense of the word.
Ms. Westover, you’ve made such an incredible impact as a teacher and as a person. The way you build real connections with your students and create a classroom where every child feels seen and valued is truly special. You’ve inspired so many kids to love learning and believe in themselves.
On top of all your professional accomplishments, you’ve also raised amazing kids—and that says so much about the kind of person you are. You’ve shown what it looks like to lead with heart, balance it all with grace, and make a difference every single day.
Alisa deserves this award! She is a passionate teacher who has changed many lives over the years. She is always looking to better herself and create the best learning environment possible for her students.
Alisa is more than deserving of the LifeChanger of the year award! As a parent, my daughter was in her kindergarten class at the KSU CDC. She was welcoming, supportive of all needs, and encouraged the love to learning. Our family has fond memories of kindergarten exploration, social development, and growth of the whole child. As a fellow teacher, I had many meaningful and collaborative conversations with Alisa. Her wisdom and educational insights are valuable to her colleagues and to her students.
As superintendent, I have the privilege of working alongside an incredible team of educators — and even among them, Ms. Westover stands out. She leads with compassion, creativity, and a genuine love for her students and her profession. Her positivity is contagious, her innovation with technology inspires others, and her willingness to take on any task reflects her deep commitment to our school community. What truly sets her apart is the heart she brings to her work — she turns ordinary moments into lasting memories for her students. We are so proud to have her represent James A. Garfield as a true life changer in education.
As a former colleague of Alisa I have witnessed how her compassionate, creative, and energetic teaching has changed the lives of her students. She met the social, emotional, and academic needs so they could be successful in their learning environment as well in the future.
When I read the description of Alisa written by the person who nominated her anonymously, it warmed my heart that someone fully captured her essence of her daily walk.
Almost thirty years ago, I was fortunate enough to hire and work side by side with Alisa as an elementary multiage teacher.
I knew the minute I met her, that she was a light. A light for every learner, family, and colleague that she would met.
I know and see that she has maintained and increased that light and joyous spirit over the many years.
She has truly embraced and is fully living her purpose in life. A teacher, a leader, a strong independent woman, a friend, a respected colleague and stellar mother.
Alisa is truly a life-changer.
She has a deep dedication toward her own continuous learning, her practice of self reflection, and her contributions to education.
She demonstrates that teaching and being in her students lives is a privilege. Her heart and energy is genuine, tireless, and present for every child.
She has this gift of talents that she unselfishly gives to others every day. She has no plans to waste her gifts that she possesses, instead always to share them.
She is a life changer.
I have had the privilege to work with Alisa at The Lippman School in Akron, Ohio. She is an energetic, sensitive, and innovative teacher who brings the best to the classroom and the best out of her students. ;-)
I am Alisa’s mom. I would like to share some of her accomplishments with you. At a young age, Alisa would line up her dolls in front of a chalkboard and play school. She would always answer the question of "what would you like to be when you grow up?" saying proudly, “a teacher”. Alisa has taken on many leadership roles throughout her life, working hard at everything she does and for all she has accomplished. Teaching has always been her passion and she puts her entire heart and soul into it. I love to hear her stories about her students and how hard she works to inspire them!
Alisa is the embodiment of what it means to be a dedicated, knowledgeable, and compassionate educator. Her commitment to her students and colleagues alike is nothing short of inspiring. I had the joy of working alongside Alisa for many years, and I always appreciated her insight, support, and thoughtful advice. Even though we no longer work at the same school, Alisa continues to be a supportive friend and trusted source of teaching advice.
In the classroom, Alisa meets every student exactly where they are—academically, socially, and emotionally. She creates a warm, inclusive environment where all learners feel seen, valued, and capable of success. Her deep understanding of each child’s individual needs allows her to build authentic relationships, helping her students grow in confidence, curiosity, and achievement.
Alisa’s kindness and optimism shine through in everything she does. Her classroom is full of positive energy, and her love for teaching is something you can feel the moment you walk in. She doesn’t just teach content; she teaches with heart, ensuring every student knows they belong and have the power to thrive.
As a colleague, Alisa is the kind of teammate everyone hopes for. She is supportive, creative, and collaborative—always ready to share ideas, brainstorm solutions, or simply offer a listening ear and a heartfelt hug. Her presence uplifts those around her, and help make the school a better place to be. She has made a positive impact on the lives of so many students, families, and colleagues. I cannot think of anymore more deserving than Alisa Westover for the LifeChanger of the Year Award.
My mom is one of the hardest working and dedicated people I’ve ever met. Her dedication to her students and positive outlook on all things makes her an inspiration. Knowing the impact she has made in her students lives is so powerful, any student would be lucky to have a teacher like my mom!
Alisa has the ability to connect with her students in a way that brings out the best in them. She creates a comfortable classroom environment where each student is afforded the space to be themselves and to connect with the content in meaningful ways. Ms. Westover demonstrates love and compassion to her students and her love of children and teaching is embodied in her enthusiasm for helping students succeed. I worked closely with Alisa on antiracism curriculum, which she approached with humility and a sincere desire to learn and grow as a professional while insuring that her classroom was 1 where all voices and perspectives were seen and heard. Her work highlighting Native voice in her social studies curriculum, was another area she exhibited authenticity in the classroom. Through her strong pedagogy and professionalism, it is her warmth toward her students and colleagues that make her most deserving of this award.
I had the privilege of being Alissa’s student, not just one year, but for three consecutive years. At the time, she was teaching in a looping program and I was fortunate enough to have her as a role model and teacher 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade. The impact Alissa left on my life charged my passion to become an educator that put relationships first. Alissa has a way of making sure every student knows how special they are and that they are always welcome to be themselves in her classroom. She left such an impact on my life, that I still share stories with my students about some of my fond memories from being in her classroom. One memory I have is of Alissa “jumping for joy” whenever something special happened in our class. That is the type of person and educator she is-one that seeks out and creates the joy in every moment. The legacy she leads extends far beyond the four walls of any classroom. It transcends from children to adults, past to present. It is rare to feel so connected to your primary school teacher still as an adult, yet anytime I run in to Alissa, it is as if no time has passed and her care and joy shines are bright as ever. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the LifeChanger award than her!
Alisa Westover embodies the essence of the Life Changer of the year Award in every aspect of her life. As both a dear friend and a teacher, Alisa has profoundly impacted not only my sons life but also mine and the lives of countless others.
As an educator, Alisa possesses a unique ability to inspire and empower students to realize their full potential. Her passion for teaching is unmatched, and she approaches every lesson with an infectious enthusiasm that ignites curiosity and fosters a love of learning in her students. Alisa doesn’t just teach subjects; she teaches life skills, instilling in her students the confidence to face challenges head-on, embrace failure as part of growth, and pursue their goals with determination and grit.
What sets Alisa Westover apart is her unwavering dedication to the personal growth of each student. She takes the time to get to know every individual, offering guidance and support tailored to their specific needs. Whether it’s through academic mentoring or offering advice during difficult personal times, Alisa has been a constant source of encouragement, kindness, and wisdom.
Beyond the classroom, Alisa leads by example, showing the importance of empathy, integrity, and perseverance. Alisa has transformed lives, and the positive impact she’s had on both students and colleagues is immeasurable.
In addition to her professional qualities, Alisa Westover is a cherished friend who continuously shows up for others. She brings light to every situation with her kindness, humor, and generosity, always making time to listen, support, and uplift those around her. Her authenticity and warmth make her an incredible role model and a true life changer.
I wholeheartedly believe that Alisa is more than deserving of the Life Changer Award. Her tireless efforts to better the lives of others, whether in or outside the classroom, have made a lasting and meaningful difference. I am grateful to know Alisa and confident that her legacy will continue to inspire and transform lives for years to come.
I had the honor of meeting Alisa in our undergraduate years, both in Elementary Education. Alisa was involved in everything and helpful to all. She supported friends personally and professionally. She has managed the various educational opportunities in her career with great excitement and enthusiasm, always telling me she was so happy and truly loved her job! Alisa is the ultimate professional, wonderful mom, daughter and friend. Congratulations, Alisa! With over 20 years of dedication, you are so deserving of this Life Changer Award nomination. Your passion truly makes a difference in your students' lives!
Let me first start by saying, what an incredible accomplishment to even be nominated for such a prestigious award. As a colleague and a parent of a child in her classroom, her dedication to her students has blown me away. Alisa wears her heart on her sleeve and the kids leave her room, feeling loved, seen and knowing that they will always have her in their corner. She is truly a devoted educator and most deserving of this award. She can always leave you with a smile on your face and a sunny disposition that radiates her love for teaching, to everyone around her.
Alisa's openness to understanding diversity in today's society allows her to connect with children from various backgrounds. This is the essence of education: reaching out to those from diverse communities who want to be acknowledged and heard.
Congratulations on this well deserved nomination! As a former colleague I had the privilege of witnessing Alisa’s dedication to teaching, her positive attitude and her sense of humor on a daily basis. Alisa strives for excellence in everything she does. She invests her time and effort into her faith, family and others. I admire Alisa in so many ways but mostly for her ability to overcome any obstacle that comes her way. She does so with grace and dignity, inspiring others to do the same. She truly is a life changer,
I would like to support Alisa Westover for Life Changer of the Year. When I first met Ms. Westover 18 years ago, she was beginning her teaching career in the Kindergarten class at the Kent State Child Development Center under the mentorship of Carol Bersani, their Director. At the time, she was a young mother raising her 3 children on her own. Since then, she has had a positive and supportive effect on their lives, to say nothing of the thousands of children she has supported and taught since then. She has continued to grow and expand her knowledge and ability to teach in various grade levels. She embraces the potential of all children. Ms. Westover is a life changer, not only in her and her children’s lives but in the lives of every student she has met over the years. She is a dynamic teacher who believes in positive thinking and her enthusiasm is contagious. She certainly deserves this honor.
I feel incredibly fortunate to call her a friend.
Alisa is one of the kindest and most genuine individuals I have ever met. Her infectious laugh and constant smile light up any room she enters. I can only imagine how these wonderful attributes translate into her role as an educator. It’s clear that she brings warmth, positivity, and enthusiasm to her classroom, creating an environment where students feel valued and inspired.
Her dedication to her students and her ability to connect with them on a personal level undoubtedly make her a wonderful educator. I have no doubt that she leaves a lasting impact on everyone she teaches.
I was incredibly fortunate to have Ms. Westover as my teacher from second through fourth grade. Every day, she filled her classroom with love, encouragement, and joy. She made learning fun and memorable while also making every student feel seen and valued. I always knew I had her full support, not just in academics, but in life too. The kindness, patience, and creativity she poured into her students had such a lasting impact on me that I was inspired to become a teacher myself! I wanted to give my own students the same love, support, and excitement for learning that she gave me. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the LifeChanger award than her!
