LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Courtney Hutchins was nominated anonymously.

In Ms. Hutchins' K–2 self-contained special education classroom, she creates a positive learning environment by building a structured, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate space where young learners feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Her students have diverse needs—academic, behavioral, sensory, and emotional—so she uses individualized instruction based on their IEPs and builds routines that promote consistency and confidence. To meet their unique learning needs, she uses visual schedules, hands-on activities, sensory tools, and flexible seating to help students stay engaged and regulated throughout the day.

Many of her students are learning foundational communication and social skills, so she incorporates evidence-based strategies such as picture exchange communication systems (PECS), core vocabulary boards, and social stories. Social-emotional development is a core part of their day. She teaches emotional regulation through calm-down strategies, breathing techniques, and role-playing. She and her students practice kindness, turn-taking, and problem-solving using visuals and simple, concrete language. She uses positive behavior supports, including clear expectations, visual behavior charts, and praise for effort, which encourage students to make good choices and build self-esteem.

Above all, she focuses on building strong, trusting relationships. She celebrates each student's progress, no matter how small, and works closely with families and related service providers to create a consistent and supportive environment. Her classroom is a safe, joyful space where students are free to explore, make mistakes, and grow at their own pace. 

Her students face a variety of challenges, from cognitive and developmental delays to communication and sensory processing needs. What they all have in common is resilience, curiosity, and a deep desire to learn. To support their unique learning styles, they rely on a range of specialized materials: sensory tools, adaptive seating, communication devices, visual aids, and hands-on learning supplies. 

Career Accomplishments:

• Carroll EMC Bright Ideas Grant
• South Wire Teacher Grant
• Teacher of the Month
• Started an ASL (American Sign Language) Club