Astrid Cruz
Position: First Grade Teacher
School: Eddie Bernice Johnson STEM Academy
School District: Dallas Independent School District
City, State: Wilmer, TX
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Astrid Cruz was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Cruz is a dedicated educator who believes that creating a positive classroom environment is fundamental to fostering student learning, motivation, and emotional well-being. Her teaching philosophy centers on intentional strategies that support academic success, personal growth, and a strong sense of belonging for every student. She begins by building strong relationships, quickly learning students' names and interests, and showing genuine care through active listening and daily check-ins.
Ms. Cruz establishes trust through consistency, fairness, and openness, laying the foundation for a safe and respectful classroom. Clear expectations and structured routines are another cornerstone of her approach. She involves students in creating classroom rules to encourage ownership, and she uses visual schedules and cues to provide a predictable structure that supports all learners.
Inclusivity and respect are woven into every aspect of her teaching. Ms. Cruz celebrates students' diverse cultural backgrounds, uses inclusive language and materials, and fosters peer connection through group work and open discussions. Promoting a growth mindset is central to her classroom culture.
She praises effort over results, embraces mistakes as learning opportunities, and uses language that encourages perseverance, such as "You don't know it yet." Ms. Cruz regularly uses positive reinforcement, offering specific praise and using notes, shout-outs, or class-wide rewards to celebrate positive behavior. She also fosters student autonomy by providing choices, encouraging student-led activities, and promoting self-assessment and reflection.
Her physical classroom is designed to be welcoming and supportive. It is clean, organized, and vibrant, featuring student work and calming spaces where students can self-regulate when needed. Ms. Cruz maintains strong communication with families, sharing regular updates and involving them in classroom activities to reinforce the partnership between home and school.
She models the positive behaviors she expects, demonstrating patience, kindness, and resilience, even during challenges. Finally, she incorporates social-emotional learning through morning meetings, gratitude journals, and regular check-ins, teaching students valuable skills like empathy, self-regulation, and conflict resolution. Through all of these practices, Ms. Cruz creates a nurturing, inclusive, and empowering environment where students thrive academically and emotionally.
Awards, Certifications, and Professional Achievements
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Curriculum Writer, Dallas Independent School District
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Content Developer and Professional Trainer for major educational publishers, including:
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Doctoral Candidate, Ana G. Méndez University
Mrs Cruz es una Exceptional maestra y muy amigable, siempre es centrada en lo que piensa y dice. La aprecio mucho.
Love you ms. cruz, best teacher ever!
Mrs. Cruz is a phenomenal educator! She is an asset to our campus due to her hard work, perseverance, and assistance that she provides to her students and staff in and outside of her grade level. Whenever I need help, advice, or resources for my classroom, she is always willing to go out of her way to get them for me. She is also very intelligent and creative, making our hallways comes to life with festive and decorative bulletin boards, stellar student work, and inspirational slogans. I am always eager to see what she will create next. She models patience and kindness. She also goes above and beyond to reach her students, challenging them to reach and even surpass their goals. I believe she definitely deserves this illustrious nomination and award!
The greatest teacher ever!! Committed to students parents and community.
Ms. Cruz siempre tiene una sonrisa y buena disposición para ayudar tanto a los padres como estudiantes.
Mrs. Cruz is an awesome educator and as her principal and evaluator I see and observe the amazing work that she does with our students. Ms. Cruz has a profound impact on her students by creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment where they feel valued and motivated to succeed. Through strong relationships, consistent expectations, and a focus on growth mindset, students develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Her intentional use of positive reinforcement, student voice, and social-emotional learning helps students build both academic skills and essential life skills. As a result, students in Ms. Cruz’s classroom thrive academically, grow emotionally, and feel empowered to take ownership of their learning. Keep up the good work Mrs. Cruz, you are an AWESOME TEACHER!!!
Exelente maestra le en canta su profecion siempre muy pendiete de sus alugnos y siempre pendiente de la cumunidad
I have known Ms Cruz for over 20 years. She is someone we can called an example of kindness, professionalism and empathy. Her experience as an educator helps to shape our future in our children’s. I’m proud to call Ms Cruz a friend and family.
Simply the best and a great human being and friend
Muy buena maestra, ayudó mucho en el aprendizaje de mi hijo.
She is an outstanding mentor going above and beyond every single day.
Highlights creative approaches that makes learning for students engaging and effective.
Her positive impact reaches far beyond her classroom touching parents students and collegues.
She is clearly shaping the future of her students in the most meaningful way.
Her encouragement. builds confidence in her students. They perform at their best always.
She brings out the best in her classroom and in her students.
Her passion for teaching shines through daily, you see it in her students.
Her dedication truly changes the live of her students.
She inspires curiosity with every lesson.
Her presence make people feel valued. She has so much to be proud of, her strenghth is inspiring.
She has a gift for making things better and her kindness make a real difference.
Ms. Cruz brings a bright energy wherever she goes. Her effot shows how amazingly well she does.
Highly recommended as a life changer. Ms. Cruz has the ability to follow through even when motivation fades. its the backbone of growth-small, repeated actions create massive shifts.
La hija mia era muy timida, tenia muchos problemas en la escuela. Desde que estuve en el grupo de Ms. Cruz ella cambio mucho. Ya hablaba y tenia amigas. Ms Cruz siempre ha ido mas alla de ensenar, ella los motiva a ser buenos seres humanos.
Sin duda es la persona idonea para ser nominada. Siempre ha sido excelente maestra y companera de trabajo. Una persona bien positiva.
As it should be, finally has been noticed as un amazing human being who gives everyone around her positivity and hope. Will for ever be grateful to her for her kindness.
She makes learning feel exciting and achievable. Her patience and guidance create a safe space for growth.
She sees potential in all her students and it shows. She is a great teacher.
As a leader celebrates the ability to motivate students and colleagues with vivion and heart.
Muy buena maestra, ayuda mucho a sus alumnos y les presta mucha atención y siempre trata de ayudar en lo que puede.
Ms Cruz is an amazing teacher!! She makes learning fun and an enjoyable experience for students. I remember how my daughter would cry when she was sick and couldn't go to school, she did not want to miss a day of learning with Ms Cruz and would ask me to call Ms Cruz and ask for assignments to do at home. Ms Cruz truly deserves this recognition for her efforts and dedication.
Dedicated to students for many years. A really committed teacher. She is caring to students and trys to meet all their needs.
She is an amazing teacher. A great educator with great expectation and so much compromise.
Mrs. Cruz is a great teacher and leader. Also she is an amazing inspiration and motivator for the kids.
All the best in the world in one person, this how we have described Mrs. Cruz in our company. We are so excited to see if finally she is rewarded for all her hard work and committment to students, no matter what.
I was the last person hired and got to interact with Mrs Cruz for only two years but in those two years I was able to learn so much from her. I always remember she would say:"if you talk loud they will talk loud, if you want them to listen talk very low", this always worked for me. Kudos Mrs Cruz.
Mrs Cruz was always a leader, ready to get in charge of any activity and decorations needed. She was all in for the kids, she truly deserves this award. Truly a person who inspires all. Good luck to you Mrs Cruz.
Ms Cruz has been an amazing teacher!
Que puedo desir de la maestra Astrid cruz exelente maestra su pasión por los niños es excepcional con su excelencia ella ayudo Ami hija mucho con ella se enseño a leer y gracias a ella mi hija se enseño Aser independiente mi hija quedó encantada con la maestra ella nunca quería cambiar de maestra ella siempre quería ir con Astrid cruz queso encantada
Muy buena maestra, entregada a su trabajo, ella se merece todo lo que venga por su dedicación mil bendiciones para ella
She’s a sweet teacher and always looking to help the students. She deserves this !
Mrs. Cruz es una excelente maestra y ayuda mucho a sus estudiantes para salir adelante.
Mrs. Cruz Is An Amazing Teacher. My Son Thrived And Became More Proactive In His Class Work. She Is A Teacher That Has Passion Heart And Patience To Work With Students With All Kinds Of Personalities And Characters That Are In Her Class And Also Any Student Ouside Of Her Class. We Love You Mrs. Cruz And Thank You For All That You Do For Our Students!!
Ms. Cruz es la mejor. Nos Trae muchas cosas para compartir y aprender. Todos los viernes have fun Friday y premia cuando hacemos bien. Nos da tarea para que mejoremos.
Me gustan las actividades que la amestar hace con nosotros, Ella es muy divertida y aprendemos mucho. Leemos todos los días para ser mejores. Eres la mejor.
Me encanta las actividades que Mrs. Cruz hace en el salon. Me gusta cuando nos da material para escribir. Gracias por ayudarnos, espero que ganes.
Ms. Cruz hizo todas las tareas para que los niños aprendan y trabajen en su casa. Ella me motiva a ser mejora nino.
Es la maestra mas bonita. Eres una maestra divertida . Nos ayudas a aprender , nos ensenas a leer. Eres la mejor maestra de todas. Espero que ganes.
Ms. Cruz nos trae cosas , celebra actividades y nos cuida Todo El tiempo . Es la mejor maestra que puedo tener
Ms. Cruz eres una maestra divertida. Eres increíble y que amas a tus estudiantes.
Para Ms. Cruz. Creo en ti , yo se que puedes ganar. Nos ayudas a explicarnos el trabajo y haces actividades de navidad y fun friday , para divertirnos.
Ms. Cruz ingeniosa, valiente y se que va a ganar la competencia. Para los niños de la escuela.
Es la mejor maestra del mundo y siempre nos cuida. Siempre nos hace muchas actividades. Nos compara pizza y nos hace fun friday. Espero que ganes Ms.Cruz. Tu me ensenaste a leer.
La maestra es la mejor maestra del mundo. Siempre nos hace actividades divertidas y nos ayuda a leer mejor. Me gusta cuando nos trae las mariposas y nos hace actividades todos los viernes.
Ms Cruz , me ayuda a hacer mejor matematicas, hace fun Friday y nos motiva. Me gusto cuando nos vestimos de Starbucks. Gracias por ser mi maestra.
Ms. Cruz es una maestra que muy ayudo mucho. Mi mamá me compró una tableta para poder practicar más y ser mejor estudiante. Gracias Ms. Cruz espero que ganes.
Ms. Cruz is a teacher dedicated to the education of her students and to fostering a friendly learning environment among them.
Una maestra excepcional, que trabajar muy fuerte por sus estudiantes. Todo el tiempo motiva y hace que sus estudiantes Se esfuercen a alcanzar su máximo potential. Sin duda un ejemplo a seguir.
Ella es una exselente maestra
Mrs. Cruz is a very outstanding, talented person. She always go over and beyond for staff co-workers and students. I love working with her because she always makes me smile when I’m down and no one knows. Ivan always depend on her to make me smile.
Hola ?? miss Cruz a pesar que tenemos poco tiempo de conocerla mi hija me habla muy bien de usted, y me da mucho gusto saberlo, tener y contar con una maestra como usted en nuestro plantel educativo, con un gran desempeño, carisma, talento y amor; siga asi siempre...
Excelente maestra, por lo que mi hija comenta que es una gran y amorosa maestra muy entregada a su trabajo con un gran talento .
She is a great teacher always taking care of her students and making them give their best for thrive.
Ella impulsa a los alumnos y alumnos a ser mejores les da confianza en si mismos, para enfrentar retos de aprendizaje, agradecida de todo lo que mi hija aprendió en el año que estuvo con ella . Pues gracias ella es mas independiente y segura de lo que puede lograr .
A teacher that needs to be cloned!! she has done so much for our school. She is the queen of sharing and activities. She never says no to anything. Hope she gets to win.
I am so happy for her nomination! We all are here in the company. She was and excelent person, alays seeing the good in everyone. Now she has been nominated and I feel it was heaven sent. Hope you can recognize all her effort.
Hope she earns her way to winning. She is a person of values with a very strong conviction of teaching. She believes each child is special, she changed my son.
Astrid Cruz is the daughter of my dear friend and I know her as my own daugther, she is devoted and an amazing teacher, just like her mom.
Astrid worked for us in Ana G Mendez University and was truly missed when she stepped down to the classroom, this is were she belongs. Her love for children and teaching is amazing.
I have known Astrid for many years, practically my whole life, she indeed is the lifechanger where ever you put her. Great mother, great teacher and best coworker ever.
We are so excited for her!! The whole company is crossing fingers for her to win, nor because she is competent but becuase she truly is a lifechanger.
At the company we are so happy for her, we knew someday someone would she the person she truly is. You go girl!! Kudos!!
We worked together for a while and it was the best experience. Really happy for her nomination, no one better.
We always teased saying we were sisters, because we have the same last name. Truth is I wish, she is such a great person, always looking for the positive in the negative and transforming it.
TVC is a program of values, we inspire teachers to instill values in teachers for their students and Astrid was excelent at it. Hope she is recognized.
Astrid and I were coworkers at Pearson for a summer and she was the most caring and responsibale person. Always willing to help others.
Great inspirational leader of a teacher. I am honored to nominate Ms. Astrid Cruz for recognition as an outstanding educator. Ms. Cruz is deeply committed to creating a positive, inclusive classroom where every student feels valued and capable. She builds strong relationships, establishes clear and supportive routines, and uses intentional strategies that foster trust, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging.
Mrs.Cruz is a great teacher. An amazing teacher who cares about all of her students.
La verdad asido la mejor maestra que atenido mi hijo. Le a enseñado mucho. Y me siento feliz y orgullosa por q tiene esta maEstra ahora
Ms.Cruz es una excelente maestra en nuestra escuela Eddie Bernice Johnson, mi hijo estuvo con ella el año pasado,y no saben lo duro que ella trabajo con los niños antes de ella tomar su descanso, ya que ella estaba embarazada y ella se preocupó mucho por dejar a los niños bien preparados para los exámenes, a mi niño en lo personal me lo avanzó bastante ya q él tiene capacidades especiales, nunca dejó de preocuparse por él hasta el último día de clases, gracias Ms. Cruz por todo el esfuerzo que haces para ayudar a nuestros niños te deseo lo mejor
Que puedo decir de la Maestra Astrid Cruz
Excelente maestra,su pasión por los niños es excepcional, con su excelencia a ayudado a mi hijo en muchas áreas de su vida,así como creo que en cada niño a dejado una huella de ella,es una persona dedicada 100% a su vocación, la felicito por tan grande pasión por enseñar a cada niño??,dejando grandes enseñanzas, en el camino Gracias ,por su amabilidad,por su pasión incondicional por cada niño,por su dedicacion,por ser tan transparente, por su amor a cada niño,por la atención que nos brinda no solo a los niños,sino a uno como madre o padre de estar al pendiente de cada familia Que Dios la Bendiga Grandemente. Gadiel Gracias por ser mi maestra...
She is great one of the best teacher that my daughter have. Mrs Cruz make a difference on how she treats the students in the classroom and out loving and caring, my daughter learn from her very quick she was reading and speaking fluent English and Spanish. So much that my daughter performed great on her testing and she was move the full English class.She has what is need. I am so thankful that my daughter has the opportunity to meet her in her class
I am honored to recommend Ms. Astrid Cruz for the LifeChanger nominee. Throughout her time on our campus, Ms. Cruz has consistently demonstrated the professionalism, dedication, and instructional expertise that define an exceptional educator. Her commitment to student growth is evident in the way she designs purposeful lessons, builds meaningful relationships, and maintains high expectations for all learners.
Mrs Cruz is an amazing teacher. She has how to be the best teacher in her blood. An amazing teacher and a best human being. The world needs more people like her
I have had the opportunity of meeting Mrs Cruz this year. She is very passionate about her class and honestly cares about them. From what I have seen she goes above and beyond to make sure they are grasping concepts and growing academically.
Ms Cruz es una excelente Maestra que siempre demuestra su capacidad profesional con el adecuado desarrolo academico de sus alumnos, siempre en constante trabajo dinamico y didactico. Felicitaciones por su logro.
Ms. Cruz has been a phenomenal leader to staff and students. She has portrayed an extraordinary kindness to parents and supported the school’s culture. For three years she has promoted a butterfly garden and other initiatives to improve students interests. Ms. Cruz has proved to be a model asset to our district, community and school.
Ms. Cruz has mad a huge impact for the students and the community of Eddie Bernice Johnson STEM Academy. She has influenced many children by being a great role model and incorporating school activities that influence their learning and academic skills. Ms. Cruz and her community is well deserving of this nominee.
Wow responsable trabajadora amable
Ms. Cruz es una maestra muy comprometida con su trabajo, siempre tiene un sonrisa para ti. La conocí en una evaluación de mi hijo y me di cuenta de la gran persona que es.
Gracias Ms Cruz en una excelente maestra mi hijo aún extraña su clase ya que era muy dinámica quiero agredecer porque ella realmente tiene vocación por lo que hace y es genial en ello debo decir que mi hijo aprendió mucho en su clase, gracias
Mrs. Cruz is a dedicated educator who always goes above and beyond for her students. She is the true definition of a teacher who teaches with her whole heart—this is so much more than just a job to her. She pours herself into her students and our school, always lending a helping hand and going the extra mile. A phenomenal educator and true math guru, our students are incredibly lucky to have her on our campus. Mrs. Cruz is a life-changing educator!
Ms Cruz is a very dedicated teacher that is always working on the best interests of her students. She is a dynamic and motivated teacher. I'm very proud of her! She's an amazing educator. Always going that extra mile no matter what. Teacher by conviction, never giving up on a student and a believer that all children learn, just not the same way.
Ms cruz es la mejor maestra del mundo porque es buena \comprensiva \ divertida y siempre nos brinda su apoyo cuando la necesitamos de Alexa G
Tengo la bendición de conocer a la Sra Cruz por más de 20 años.
Profesora Cruz,quiero darte las gracias por que por más de veinte años has impactado vidas no solo en PR también en EU.
Agradezco a Dios por el privilegio de llamarte amiga y de haber servido juntos en trabajo comunitario, impactando a la juventud de Puerto Rico.
Tu vocación siempre ha sido evidente. Gracias a tu capacidad, tu entrega y el amor con el que enseñas, hoy hay jóvenes y niños que llevan tu huella.
Has demostrado no solo ser una excelente educadora, sino una persona dispuesta a ir más allá. No trabajas solo con estudiantes; trabajas con vidas. Y por eso estás impactando el futuro de nuestro país de una manera que pocos logran.
Me alegra haberte conocido, haber aprendido de ti y seguir viendo el fruto de tu compromiso.
Gracias por ser esa maestra que marca generaciones.
Mrs. Cruz, you are truly exceptional. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, experience, and guidance not only with your students, but also with your colleagues and everyone around you. You continue to inspire all those who have the privilege of knowing you, and no one is more deserving of this nomination. Your dedication both inside and outside the classroom, along with your unwavering belief in each student’s potential, has transformed minds, hearts, and the futures of countless young people.
Mrs. Cruzas is a teacher deeply committed to her work, passionate about what she does, and with an unwavering love for her students. She is a teacher who transforms environments and leaves a lasting impression wherever she goes. A wonderful colleague and friend. She deserves all the success she has.
Gracias maestra, porque su excelencia inspira a todos los que tenemos el privilegio de aprender de usted. Su dedicación y su esfuerzo es totalmente brillante para cada alumno. ¡Gracias por tanto, bendiciones !!
EXCELENTE MAESTRA!! Estudiamos juntas en la universidad en Puerto Rico. Éxito.
Mrs Cruz has always been a very dedicated educator with high expectations for her students. I had the pleasure to be her school Principal and the educational experience for her students set a high bar for other teacher to follow. Mrs Cruz is always looking for new ways to engage her students while at the same time creating a social emotional environment of trust.
I am writing to enthusiastically advocate for Astrid to win the Life-Changer Teacher Competition. Her dedication goes far beyond the curriculum; she possesses a rare blend of exceptional teaching skills and profound human quality that truly transforms her students' lives.She embodies the very best of the teaching profession through her expertise, her tireless effort, and her enormous heart. Awarding her this competition would recognize the profound, positive impact she has on her school community and the incredible individuals she molds every single day.
Every so often, we meet someone whose passion, kindness, and dedication leave a mark so deep that it changes lives forever. Mrs. Astrid Cruz is one of those rare individuals—a true LifeChanger in every sense of the word. Through her unwavering commitment to students, tireless efforts inside and outside the classroom, and belief in the potential of every child, she has transformed not just minds, but hearts and futures.
From the very first day, it’s clear that Mrs. A. Cruz teaches with purpose. She can make every student feel seen, valued, and capable of greatness. Whether it’s staying after school to help a struggling student, celebrating small victories, or finding creative ways to make learning exciting, Mrs. Cruz always goes above and beyond to ensure that each student feels empowered to succeed.
What sets Mrs. Astrid Cruz apart is her ability to connect. She understands that education is not just about academics—it’s about character, confidence, and compassion. She teaches life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom walls, reminding students that hard work, kindness, and perseverance truly matter. For many, Mrs. Cruz has been a mentor, a motivator, and sometimes even a lifeline during difficult times.
Colleagues and parents alike speak of Mrs. A. Cruz with admiration and gratitude. Her leadership, positivity, and genuine care create a ripple effect that inspires the entire school community. Whether organizing community projects, supporting school initiatives, or encouraging other teachers, she leads by example—proving that one person really can make a difference.
Mrs. Cruz doesn’t just teach lessons—she lives them. She models integrity, compassion, and resilience every single day. Students who have crossed her path often return years later to express how much she changed their lives—reminding us all that the greatest impact a teacher can have is not measured in grades or test scores, but in the lives they touch and the confidence they inspire.
For these reasons and countless more, I am proud to say Mrs. Astrid Cruz is truly a LifeChanger. She embodies what it truly means to teach, to lead, and to make a lasting difference in the world.
Truly showing us all that with passion and heart, one person can indeed change lives—one student at a time.
I have had the privilege of working with Mrs. Cruz on many projects over the years, specifically during my time at EBJ. We’ve shared countless school adventures and projects, always with one goal in mind - creating more opportunities for our students. She is the kind of colleague who never hesitates to say, "What if we do this?” or “Let’s do it!” no matter what it is.
For two consecutive years, we worked side by side; she taught math and I taught reading for the same class of students. We also created and worked on several different initiatives that had a large impact on our school including building the school garden, leading STEM activities, and even co-parenting a classroom chicken. She is the most consistent and dependable coworker that I have had in my approximately 10 years of teaching. She is supportive, ambitious, collaborative, and always puts students first.
Ms. Cruz builds strong, lasting connections with both students and families. She loves teaching and always supports teacher growth in her colleagues. She is also a relentless worker; she is firm when she needs to be, yet always warmhearted and caring. Her dedication, creativity, and compassion make her an exceptional educator and an inspiration to everyone around her.
I feel as though she truly embodies the qualities of a “life changer” and can think of no one who more deserves the Life Changer of the Year Award than Mrs. Cruz.
Sin duda alguna LA MEJOR MAESTRA! Mrs Cruz a sido maestra de mis 3 hijos y estoy muy contenta por eso. Mis niños la quieren mucho y eso es porque se los ha sabido ganar con el buen trato y dedicacion que les da. Mi niña llega feliz por las actividades divertidas que hacen en clase. Aparte ella resuelve dudas sea de su clase o no y siempre esta ahi para ayudar cuando se le necesita. Estoy muy gustosa por su nominacion. Super merecida
I’ve had the honor of working with Mrs. Cruz for the past four years, and I can truly say she is one of the most talented and passionate educators I’ve ever met. From day one, she has been a supportive colleague—always willing to lend a hand, share advice, and uplift those around her.
What makes Mrs. Cruz stand out is not just her dedication to her students, but the way she leads with heart. She goes out of her way to support new teachers, offering guidance and encouragement when it’s needed most. Her passion for teaching is undeniable, and it shows in the meaningful relationships she builds with students, parents, and fellow staff.
Teaching isn’t just her job—it’s her calling. And the positive impact she makes in our school community every day is truly inspiring. This nomination couldn’t be more well-deserved.
Mrs. Cruz,
You are truly an exceptional teacher and even better person!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge, experience, talents and guidance with not only the students, but your colleagues and faculty as well as the parents in the school.
You are definitely an inspiration to others and a force to be reckoned with. I can’t think of anyone so deserving of this nomination.
I am so happy and proud to nominate Astrid Cruz, a wonderful first-grade teacher, for the National Life Group Life Changer of the Year award. I have seen the amazing things she does for her students, their families, and our school. Astrid is more than a teacher; she helps kids become curious, stands up for them, and works closely with parents.Astrid is great at making her classroom a place where every child feels important and included. Her great sense of humor and positive attitude make learning fun. She is wonderful at celebrating that every student is different and uses their unique backgrounds to make her lessons interesting. This creates a welcoming place where children learn to be kind and respect each other. Astrid is also a big believer in a "growth mindset." She teaches her students to try hard things, see mistakes as a chance to learn, and believe they can get smarter. This connects to how she teaches students about their feelings and how to get along with others.One of Astrid's biggest strengths is how she works with parents. She always keeps them informed about what’s happening in class. She is quick to help and is dedicated to supporting families at home. When parents have a question, she listens and then acts. She makes helpful and easy-to-see plans that parents can use to support their kids, not just with schoolwork but with everyday life. This extra help makes parents feel more confident and makes the connection between home and school stronger.Besides her great work with students and parents, Astrid is also very humble and patient. She is calm and understanding with every child, knowing that they all learn in their own way. She is also great with her coworkers and is always happy to share what she knows and the materials she creates. She knows that working together helps everyone do better and has a bigger impact on students.Astrid is a true life-changer. She is helping shape our future generation with kindness, hard work, and a love for teaching. She helps her students become confident, kind, and ready to learn for the rest of their lives. That is why I strongly recommend her for the Life Changer of the Year award. Sincerely, Zoraida Robles 1st Grade Bilingual teacher at Northrich elementary school(RISD)
La maestra cruz, le a ayudado mucho a mi a hijo a tenido aveces y también es muy paciente
Ms. Cruz is not only an incredible teacher but also a truly supportive colleague. Since my first years as a teacher, I've often visited her classroom with many questions. She has always responded with patience, taking the time to answer thoroughly and provide helpful resources I could use in my own teaching. Her creativity and crafty skills also helped me decorate my classroom in a way that felt more welcoming and inviting for my students. She is consistently willing to help, bringing positivity and fresh ideas to every situation. She doesn’t just offer advice—she follows through and walks with you every step of the way. If she doesn’t know the answer to something, she goes out of her way to find it in order to support you. Ms. Cruz generously shares her experience and knowledge with a collaborative attitude.
Ms. Cruz is a go getter who’s always looking into new ways to improve her teaching skills and differentiate each of her students specific learning needs. Whenever a question’s unanswered she will research until she finds the solution to resolve the issue. When she commits to something she goes above and beyond to complete the task. She’s also always ready to assist others with whatever they need even if she’s on her way out to door to go home. Majority of the time she will also spend her own money to create projects for her students and community.
Astrid has impacted so many lives with her knowledge and talents with children that we have will se the fruit of her work in the future citizens of our country. I personally know the struggles Ms. Cruz has endured to be where she is and I personally attest it’s not been easy. I could not think of a more exemplary teacher than Ms. Cruz for this award.
Thank you
Exelente Maestra sin Duda muy agradecida con los abances que mi hijo a tenido
Súper merecido excelente ser humano amiga y compañera! Mujer esforzada y valiente!
I wholeheartedly support Ms. Cruz for the Life Changer of the Year award.
I had the distinct pleasure of working and collaborating with her as a Dual Language Instructional Specialist. In every interaction, Ms. Cruz stood out as a truly exceptional professional. She is incredibly prepared and consistently goes above and beyond, always focusing on solutions and dedicated support for her students.
What truly sets her apart is her passion and dedication: she is a fierce advocate for bilingual students and is always eager to understand and implement new initiatives, materials, and resources. Her commitment is tangible, even to the point of investing her own money to purchase resources that directly benefit her students' learning.
Ms. Cruz embodies the spirit of a Life Changer and is profoundly deserving of this recognition!
Ms.cruz una gran maestra abre mentes inspira sueños genera confianza,motiva,enseña,educa con el corazón muchísima gracias Ms.cruz
Yo quiero decir que la maestra mrs. CRUZ Ella es una mujer muy valiente eficaz grandemente amorosa con los ninos. Ella es una maestra de muy pocas maestras que merecen el nombre de maestra porque ella sabe enseñar ama su profesión y eso es incomparable es puntual trabajadora nunca falla siempre logra su objetivo con cada nino y eso se llama dedicación amar lo que hace yo votaría mil veces por ella porque vale mucho como maestra y lo mas importante sabe tener comunicación con los papás sobre como van nuestros hijos. Y eso es fundamental para que el nino logre su objetivo es trabajar en equipo maestra estudiante y papás estoy orgullosa que mis hijos aigan estado con ella porque simplemente es la mejor para muchos papas.
La queremos mucho por ser de las mejores.
Supporting Statement for Astrid D. Cruz Erazo – LifeChanger of the Year
It is a true honor to celebrate Astrid D. Cruz Erazo as a LifeChanger of the Year nominee. Astrid embodies what it means to be an educator who not only teaches but also inspires, uplifts, and empowers.
Astrid’s classroom is more than just a place for academic instruction — it is a safe haven where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Her genuine care for her students shines through in the way she learns their names and stories from day one, building trust through consistency, fairness, and kindness. She sets high expectations while providing the structure, encouragement, and support her students need to meet them.
What sets Astrid apart is her belief in the power of inclusivity and growth mindset. She celebrates diversity, fosters resilience, and turns challenges into opportunities for learning. By praising effort over results and encouraging her students to see mistakes as part of the journey, she instills confidence and perseverance that extend far beyond the classroom walls.
Astrid also brings learning to life through innovative projects that connect students with the world around them. She created a Butterfly Garden for her school, providing a hands-on, nurturing space where students learn responsibility, environmental stewardship, and the beauty of growth and transformation. She pours her heart into every activity she designs, ensuring that each one is both meaningful and engaging. Her excellence in integrating STEM concepts across the curriculum has been formally recognized, underscoring her ability to prepare students for the future by making science, technology, engineering, and mathematics accessible, relevant, and exciting.
Astrid understands the importance of partnership with families, ensuring parents feel connected to their child’s growth. Her classroom environment reflects her values — warm, organized, and filled with student voices and achievements. Beyond academics, she equips her students with social-emotional skills like empathy, gratitude, and conflict resolution, preparing them to thrive in school and in life.
Astrid is more than an educator; she is a role model and a life-changer. Her dedication, compassion, creativity, and unwavering belief in her students leave an indelible mark on everyone she teaches. For these reasons and more, Astrid Cruz is truly deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year recognition.
I am very glad to see Mrs. Cruz nominated for this recognition. She is an amazing teacher who inspires her students every day, not only helping them grow academically but also supporting their confidence and social-emotional learning. Her passion for teaching is clear in the way she creates a positive and inclusive classroom where every child feels valued.
Mrs. Cruz also has a natural talent for supporting her coworkers and other teachers. She shares ideas, encouragement, and guidance, which shows her dedication not only to her students but also to the teaching profession. Her impact goes beyond her own classroom, and that is why this nomination is so meaningful and well deserved.
So proud of you, Astrid. Keep shining your passion for education.
