LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Hailey Benjamin was nominated anonymously.

In Ms. Benjamin's classroom, creating a positive environment begins with building genuine relationships with her students. Every day, she greets them by name at the door, making eye contact so they know they are seen and valued the moment they walk in. She intentionally designs her classroom space to be welcoming and comfortable, arranging tables for collaboration and displaying student work so they feel a sense of ownership and pride.

She believes students learn best when they feel safe – both emotionally and academically – so she sets clear expectations and fosters a culture of kindness, respect, and encouragement. She emphasizes that mistakes are a natural and essential part of learning, which helps students take risks and participate without fear of judgment. Because she teaches science and social studies, she uses hands-on labs, projects, and interactive activities that connect learning to their lives and interests.

Her students often work in groups, discussing ideas, problem-solving, and supporting each other. They know that their voices matter and that their classroom is a team. She strives to model warmth and patience, and as a result, her students often come to her with not only academic questions but also personal concerns, knowing she will listen without judgment. Overall, she aims to create an environment where students feel respected, included, challenged, and deeply cared for, so that every day they leave her room feeling confident, curious, and capable.

She is currently in her third year of teaching, and during this time, she has worked hard to ensure her students succeed both academically and personally. Out of her 60 students, she achieved a 96% pass rate on the US Constitution test, which is a significant milestone for seventh-graders and reflects their dedication as well as her commitment to preparing them thoroughly. Additionally, she was honored to be chosen as a Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce grant winner, which allowed her to purchase materials and resources to enhance her classroom and improve student learning experiences.