Julie Reyes
Position: Elementary School Teacher, Grades 1-5
School: Noble Avenue Elementary School
School District: Los Angeles Unified School District
City, State: North Hills, CA
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Julie Reyes was nominated by her principal, Joseph Prendez.
"I am honored to recommend Julie Reyes for the coveted honor of the LifeChanger of the Year Award. She has been in the educational field for over 27 years, working in the culturally diverse Los Angeles County, California," said Prendez.
Ms. Reyes is being recognized for her unwavering support of students and her tireless advocacy for teachers. She collaborates with administrative staff and supports school and district-wide initiatives. She feels her students are of "number 1" importance, while at the same time being very proactive in school-wide programs.
Ms. Reyes promotes a collaborative spirit, which fosters strong partnerships across all grade levels. At the same time, she provides a rigorous and focused learning environment for her students. In her roles as teacher and Union Chair of the local United Teachers of Los Angeles (UTLA) Chapter, Ms. Reyes consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to creating a fair, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment for the staff she supports. Her advocacy ensures that teachers' voices are heard and valued.
"She helps make me more effective at my job," said Prendez. "One of the things she conveys to her students from day one is that their actions (or inactions) will matter at the end of every day. There is no, 'I forgot to do my homework,' in her class. It is my pleasure to support Ms. Reyes for this well-deserved recognition."
I have known Julie for many years in different capacities. I met her when she was a special aid assistant. She was well knows for taking charge and taking initiative. Later she became “the teacher next door” that’s there to help you in anyway needed. She then became my daughter’s teacher. She is well known for bringing fun into learning by doing a plethora of activities that will stay in the students’ memory forever (room 39 is the best!). Lastly, Julie has become a friend who celebrates your birthday, offers you treats just because, but also tells it like it is when necessary. ;-)
Ms. Julie Reyes enjoys her role as 1st grade teacher. She plans and executes numerous fun filled activities that make learning fun for the students in her classroom. She goes that extra mile to ensure that her students get a well rounded education, including manners.
I've known Ms. Reyes for over ten years. I met her when she was a teacher's aide and was so impressed with how she supported and worked with the students. When she became a full-time teacher, I was thrilled for her and the school for having someone with such experience leading a class.
I substitute at the school where she teaches, and I remember her telling me that she is not just there to babysit the kids. She told me that it's her job to see that they're doing the work. She relayed to me that previous teachers just let the students pass through their class and didn't make the effort to make sure the students were doing their work.
I know she's there to encourage her students and to challenge them to do their work. She is a perfect example of a teacher I would have loved to have when I was a student. All her students are better off for having her as a teacher.
Julie Reyes is the kind of teacher who makes a lasting impact on everyone she works with. Her dedication to her students goes far beyond academics — she inspires responsibility, kindness, and confidence in every child. Julie’s passion for education and her unwavering support for colleagues make her a true leader and role model in the teaching community. She embodies what it means to be a LifeChanger, and this recognition is so well deserved!
It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside Julie. She consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to inclusion by ensuring that my special education students are always welcomed and supported within her general education classroom. Her collaborative spirit and professionalism make her an incredible teammate — she not only supports her students but also uplifts her colleagues through her willingness to share ideas, resources, and mentorship. Beyond the classroom, her leadership as a UTLA representative reflects her dedication to fostering a positive and equitable school community. Julie truly embodies what it means to be a life-changing educator — compassionate, collaborative, and driven to make a meaningful difference for every student and colleague she encounters.
Julie has always been there for me as both a co-worker and a friend. She’s an incredible teacher who truly loves her students and goes above and beyond to make learning fun, engaging, and meaningful. Her classroom is a place where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
She constantly looks for new ways to grow as an educator, whether through professional development, collaboration, or continuing her college studies. Her dedication to lifelong learning inspires not only her students but also her colleagues.
She leads with kindness, patience, and passion, always willing to share ideas and support others. I am grateful to have her as a coworker and friend—she makes our school community stronger every day.
She goes above and beyond for her students! But she also supports her colleagues with anything and everything!
Julie was is a great teacher who is so dedicated to what she does. She is always around to help colleges when needed and welcomed me to a new school with kindness. I always knew I could count on her or go to her for any guidance and support.
I've had the privilege of working with "Ms. Julie" for well over a decade, and she has consistently demonstrated what it means to be a true "life changer." Thoughtful, hardworking, and endlessly creative, she pours her heart into everything she does. Her dedication to her students and colleagues goes far beyond the classroom. Ms. Julie truly makes a lasting difference every day, and this nomination is a perfect reflection of the impact she's had on so many lives.
Julie is a life changer for sure. I had the privilege to work with her when I was a teacher at Noble Avenue and she was a teacher’s assistant. She stood out with her initiative, lots of creativity, and organizational skills. She is a hard worker. She worked on many projects for my class from posters to projects. She would go beyond expectations. I recently ran into her as a Chapter Chair and there is no doubt why she was chosen to represent them. She is THE life changer in people’s lives. Her students, their families, her colleagues and the school she is at are very fortunate to have her. A perfect JEWEL.
I am honored to recommend Ms. Julie Reyes for the LifeChanger Award. She is a truly exceptional educator whose deep passion for teaching and mentorship shines through in every interaction. Julie possesses a remarkable ability to connect with others in a way that is both thoughtful and empowering. As a colleague, I have consistently witnessed the dedication, knowledge, patience, and generosity she brings to her work—whether she is guiding a student, collaborating with fellow educators, or supporting school initiatives.
Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Julie inspires her students not only to learn and lead but also to believe in their own potential. Through her consistent example as a role model, she teaches the value of generosity and the importance of giving back. Her actions speak as powerfully as her words, fostering a culture of empathy, kindness, and community among her students. Julie Reyes is the kind of teacher who transforms lives—not just by what she teaches, but by who she is. It is with great admiration and confidence that I recommend her for this well-deserved recognition.
It is with great pride and admiration that I recommend Julie Reyes for the National Life Group LifeChanger of the Year Award. Having worked closely with her, I can confidently say that this nomination is not just well-deserved—it is a reflection of the powerful impact she has made in the lives of students, colleagues, and our community.
Julie is the kind of person who leads with heart, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to helping others thrive. Whether it's going the extra mile to support a student in need, mentoring colleagues with wisdom and grace, or simply bringing positivity to every space she enters, Julie exemplifies what it means to be a LifeChanger.
What sets Julie apart is not just the work that she does—but how she does it: with compassion, humility, and an authentic belief in the potential of every person. She inspires change not through grand gestures, but through consistent, everyday acts of kindness, dedication, and leadership.
I can think of no one more deserving of this honor. Julie truly changes lives—and I am fortunate to have witnessed that firsthand.
I had the privilege of working with Julie over 25 years ago, and she made a lasting impact on my life. She was an amazing, caring educator who made learning fun and engaging. Her patience, encouragement, and genuine kindness helped me believe in myself and truly enjoy school. What’s even more special is that we’ve stayed in touch all these years — a testament to the kind of lifelong influence she has on her students. She is absolutely deserving of this recognition!
Julie is one of the most thoughtful and creative teachers I have worked with. She goes above and beyond to ensure her classroom feels like a safe space for learning and growth.
Ms. Reyes is an amazing teacher! I had the privilege of working with her and her first grade students during Covid online learning and in the year/s afterward. Ms. Reyes arrives early and is very organized! Her class had excellent attendance-/ her students also arrive early! Ms. Reyes has high expectations of behavior, which her students meet and learn to thrive from. They are attentive, they have fun. Ms Reyes takes time to build both foundational skills and community, for things like movement breaks, and art. Her students look forward to her regular schedule and her encouragement and positive discipline/ classroom
management, which helps them be successful, not only in their early elementary school years, but in every year that follows. Well done, Ms. Reyes! Everyone enjoys your class so much!
It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside Julie, she is not only a thoughtful and dedicated colleague, but also an incredible friend. Her unique ability to balance being both firm and fun in the classroom is something truly special. It’s one of the reasons she stands out as an exceptional teacher. She brings the best out of those around her and has a powerful way of inspiring both students and peers to stand up for what’s right and never back down! Her presence is uplifting , her energy is contagious, and her impact is undeniable. If you’re lucky enough to have her on your team, consider it a guaranteed win. I have nothing but immense love and respect for her and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this nomination.
A truly inspiring teacher who consistently demonstrates excellence, professionalism, and genuine care for every student. We are so lucky to have our son Dominic in her class
I have known Julie for over 25 years. I have seen her grow and have worked with her as my student, my colleague and now as a supporter of her accomplishments. She is dedicated in helping children in their educational development and well being. I am proud of her accomplishments.
It is with great pride and admiration that I nominate Julie Reyes for this esteemed educator award. I have had the privilege of knowing Julie for over 20 years, and throughout that time, she has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to education and to the success of her students.
Julie is a remarkable teacher whose passion for learning and teaching is evident in everything she does. She is constantly seeking out innovative and creative approaches to engage her students, adapting her teaching strategies to meet their diverse needs and learning styles. Her lessons are not only effective but also inspiring, making a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to be in her classroom.
What truly sets Julie apart is her unwavering dedication to student growth and well-being. She always goes the extra mile to ensure her students are supported both academically and emotionally. Whether it’s staying after class to provide additional help, finding new resources to enhance the learning experience, or simply offering a kind word of encouragement, Julie is fully invested in the success of every child she teaches.
Over the past two decades, Julie has continued to grow and excel in her profession. Her enthusiasm for education is contagious, and she serves as a mentor and inspiration to her colleagues. She exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator—compassionate, innovative, hardworking, and deeply committed to making a difference.
I am honored to nominate Julie Reyes for this educator award. I had the privilege of meeting Julie over ten years ago, and from the very beginning, it was clear that she exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and passionate educator.
Julie consistently goes above and beyond to support her students, both academically and personally. Her unwavering commitment to student success is evident in every aspect of her teaching. She creates a learning environment where all students feel valued, encouraged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Julie not only focuses on academic excellence but also prioritizes the emotional well-being and individual growth of each student. Her innovative teaching methods, tireless work ethic, and compassionate nature make her a role model for both her colleagues and students.
Over the past decade, I have witnessed Julie make a lasting impact on countless young lives. She is not just a teacher she is a mentor, advocate, and leader within her school community. It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend Julie Reyes for this well-deserved recognition.
I had the opportunity to work as a Teacher’s Assistant with Ms. Reyes for a year, and during that time I learned so much from her. I enjoyed seeing the different creative ways she got her students engaged in their learning. Her hard work and dedication were clear, and it showed through the success and enthusiasm of her students.
Our son's first grade teacher. She’s amazing very amazing and down to earth and relatable to the students. Creative ways of teaching. Very involved and wants to help each student the way they did. We are very happy with our son’s first grade teacher. She’s fun and strict when she needs to be and doesn’t allow any type of bullying
I had the pleasure of working with Ms Reyes many years ago when I first started out as a para. We worked various positions together and I was always learning something new from Ms Reyes. We continued our friendship to see each other reach our goals of becoming educators. Ms Reyes is one of the greatest! She has had the passion for teaching and leading since I could remember. She’s always been a great motivator and colleague/friend. Always willing to help and give her time to make the kids happy and getting them to learn at their fullest potential. She is an awesome possum! She is always eager to gain knowledge as well as share it.
Ms. Reyes is the kind of teacher who makes a lasting impact not only on her students, but on everyone who knows her. As a friend, I’ve had the privilege of seeing just how much love and dedication she pours into her work. In every conversation we’ve had, her passion for teaching is so clear and it’s not just a job for her, it’s a calling. She lights up when she talks about her students, always so proud of their progress, their accomplishments, and even the small day-to-day victories that others might overlook. What stands out most is how much she truly believes in her students and their potential, and how deeply she cares about helping them grow into confident, capable individuals. Her pride in their success and her unwavering commitment to their well-being is inspiring. Ms. Reyes embodies what it means to be a LifeChanger, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
I had the pleasure of working with Julie for three years, and I truly miss collaborating with her. She is intuitive and creative in her work with diverse learners, including students with disabilities, and she genuinely cares for all of her students
Ms Reyes has always been a colleague I can count on. Whether it’s for the kids or staff, she goes above and beyond every time. Last year, her 5th grade tutoring students were selected based on almost having passed the state assessments. After a year of tutoring from Ms. Reyes, 5 out of her 6 students passed the state assessments state assessments!
Ms. Reyes is an amazing and impactful educator! Not only is she an excellent and caring teacher, but she is a leader on her school campus hosting special events for students and families to participate in. As the local school board member, I have the privilege of visiting many schools and was especially touched and impressed by Ms. Reyes' leadership in organizing a week of Read Across America events at her elementary school. Not only did she organize special celebrations and reading activities, but Ms. Reyes took it upon herself to seek donations and resources to provide books, coloring pages, and a stuffed animal for every student.
I had the pleasure of having Julie in my courses at CSUN's Reading and Literacy Added Authorization Program. Julie was an extremely dedicated student, making the most of every professional learning opportunity, embracing coursework, and always keeping a positive, hopeful to learn and make an impact attitude! She also demonstrated expertise throughout the program at connecting with students and designing engaging interactive lessons for students she worked with during the clinical program hours. Julie inspired other students in the program to be better!!! We need more Julies in education!! :)
I had the privilege of meeting Ms. Reyes, last school year when she enrolled in LAUSD's rigorous, year-long micro-credential program in special education. This program is specifically designed for General Education Teachers who want to learn more about how to best serve the special education population of students in their classroom and at their school site. Throughout the program, Ms. Reyes demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ensuring all students feel seen, supported, and successful in her classroom. She attended Saturday sessions to deepen her knowledge and refine her instructional practices. Her willingness to invest personal time in her growth reflects her passion for equity in education and her identity as a true lifelong learner. Ms. Reyes is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and professionalism.
Julie Reyes is a committed and passionate educator who successfully completed the Los Angeles Unified School District’s Special Education Micro-Credentialing Program. She is eager to continue growing professionally to ensure that she can effectively support the diverse needs of all learners in her classroom.
During my visit with Ms. Reyes at Noble Elementary, I witnessed the remarkable impact of her work. She is an outstanding first grade teacher who excels both in instruction and in building strong relationships with her students. Ms. Reyes fosters a positive and engaging classroom environment, delivers high-quality lessons, and consistently nurtures her students’ academic and social-emotional growth. Her dedication and care are evident in the meaningful connections she creates with children and in the success they achieve under her guidance.
I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Reyes years back when I was an assistant principal at Noble ES, and she was a paraeducator. She was dependable, hard working, and demonstrated a heart for students with special needs.
The thing that stood out most to me was that Ms. Reyes took initiative in ways that were outside of her job responsibilities. On several occasions she signed the school up for events in which firefighters came to the school and provided gifts to each student with disabilities. Not only did Ms. Reyes take the initiative on finding resources for our students, but she also took the lead in organizing events. All educators are leaders, and Ms. Reyes' impactful leadership was evident even as a paraeducator.
I always looked forward to visiting Julie's classroom. She truly creates a powerful experience for her students by fostering a classroom environment that is both a stable, welcoming sanctuary and a space of high expectations where students are empowered to excel. Her positive influence, however, extends far beyond her students; as a colleague, she has been an unwavering source of support, wisdom, and encouragement, always willing to share her expertise and lift up those around her. She is a courageous advocate for fairness and respect within her school community, consistently speaking up to ensure all voices are heard and valued. It was a true honor to work alongside such a dedicated and impactful educator, and I have personally witnessed the profound, positive change she inspires in everyone fortunate enough to know her, especially her students.
I have the great pleasure meeting Julie in a professional development. She contains a wealth of knowledge, and an eager drive to keep on learning. Julie is a rare jewel hard to find for anyone seeking mentorship .
I am the agent/advisor that solicited a teacher for this LifeChanger award from Principal Prendez. I had her in mind when I made the offer of sponsorship, but I did not say anything. I was so pleased when Principal Prendez selected Julie from the many deserving teachers in the school. We have met a lot of them, and they should be proud.
I am in tune with some of the challenges teachers endure. Before I began my career, I obtained a California Secondary Teaching Credential. So, I have been through the 5th year certification organizational process, including the detail lesson planning from week to week that has to go on. You do not just through a book or ball out and say go at it. Everything has to be with a purpose. Julie Checks all the boxes.
Where she drew the most attention was the very first day we/I met her. We were waiting to go into a meeting she had organized. We had an impromptu discussion on teaching the students personal responsibility. I do not have enough time to go into it, but she was spot on. The type of teacher I would want my children and grandchildren to experience.
If she were to win this award, any money presented will be used wisely by both her, and the school.
