Phoua Chang
Position: Sixth Grade Hmong Immersion Teacher
School: Susan B. Anthony Elementary School
School District: Sacramento City Unified School District
City, State: Sacramento, CA
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Phoua Chang was nominated by Kia Song, the parent of a student.
Inspired by her uncles and her high school teacher, Mr. Vang, Ms. Chang has dedicated 15 years to the field of education. She has dedicated five years to Hmong literacy and the past ten years to teaching Hmong Immersion. She has not only achieved academic success, but instilled cultural pride, resilience, and life lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.
Ms. Chang had a powerful experience with a student who struggled academically and had no mother. For him, she was the closest thing to a mother. This moment reshaped her outlook, teaching her that her influence reaches far beyond academics—she is truly changing lives.
In her early career, another student showed her that affection is just as essential as discipline. Since then, she has balanced firmness with empathy, guiding her sixth-grade students through a critical stage of growth. She reminds them that every life lesson and every high expectation comes from a place of care.
Her commitment extends well beyond the classroom. She is often the last to leave campus, ensuring her students are cared for and even fed—knowing that children cannot learn when they are hungry. For five years, she has collaborated with schools nationwide to build the Hmong Immersion program, which is now used in other states. Outside of school, she produced The Healing Series, emphasizing spirituality and culture as vital to learning and identity.
Ms. Chang is more than an educator; she is a role model, a program builder, and a source of hope and strength for her students. I can think of no one more deserving of the Life Changer of the Year Award," said Song.
Ms. Chang is truly an extraordinary person whose presence leaves a lasting impact on every life she touches. She inspires me deeply and continues to be a light for so many others. Her love for youth, healing, women, especially Hmong women and her community radiates through everything she does. She is not only a role model, but also a living example of what it means to lead with purpose, heart, and passion.
Ms. Chang deserves this award because she is shaping the next generation with compassion, kindness, and wisdom. The most powerful gifts a teacher can offer her students. The impact she leaves behind in their hearts will last a lifetime. When I walk into a room where Ms. Chang is present, I instantly feel a sense of peace and hope. There’s something about her energy, her words, and her presence that reminds you you’re safe, seen, and capable.
If you ever have the honor of hearing her speak, you’ll understand why she is so loved and admired. Ms. Chang doesn’t just teach. She transforms.
I am honored to nominate Ms. Phoua Chang. She is a dedicated and compassionate individual whom I met her when she was about 16 years old. Over the years, I have witnessed her remarkable growth and unwavering commitment to serving the community with heart and soul. Phoua continues to inspire others through her actions, leadership, and deep connection to her culture and heritage. She is an outstanding role model and a true example of service and integrity.
Where do I even begin with Ms. Chang. You can tell she’s very passionate about all the things she does. She not only taught through education for her kiddos in her classroom but preservation of the Hmong language and all other aspects of the Hmong culture, history, and art. She continues to foster that outside of the classroom as a teacher and continued throughout the community through all these same aspects but through the continuation of storytelling through art, film, and directing. Let’s not even begin to talk about her annual support in supporting and or training her girls within the community to work towards trying to achieve their goals as competitors in community events which is a way to preserve her culture. If she’s not dedicating her time in her classroom she’s dedicating her time within the community. Now this is only what I see how she supports her community.
She has taught both my nieces and family in the classroom but with me, she does exactly the same with supporting me by providing me with opportunities to give back to my own community whether that be with my time or contributing to the goal of preservation in our love and passion in our cultural history and language.
Ms. Chang is full of powerful encouragement, love, and support. She is compassionate and kind to each individual no matter their age. Anyone who knows of her can attest. She has changed my life and so many others with her heart.
Ms. Chang has touched so many lives in so many ways. She waits for no directions and is a leader in the work she does and her presence alone is a life changing. I know her as a mentor and a community organizer, and I really wish more people get to experience her the way I did.
Ms. Chang is resilient & truly passionate about the role she plays in our community as a citizen & a teacher. She truly deserves to win this prestigious award because with her dedication to her job and community it’ll be accepted with every ounce going towards nothing but back into the community & scholars she deeply cares for. She’s a great role model for our children & she does it so effortlessly- because that’s who she truly is.
We love Ms. Chang! She has touched the lives of so many through her work as a teacher, giving back to students and community members.
Ms. Chang was my Hmong teacher when I was a little girl, and even now at 23 years old, I’m still deeply touched by her kindness and the impact she’s had on my life. I remember when I was younger, I wanted to be someone like her because she made learning feel so special and full of love. She wasn’t just a teacher; she was someone who believed in her students and made every moment in her class meaningful and full of heart.
I learned so much from her, not only about the Hmong language and culture, but also about pride, patience, and compassion. Till this day, Ms. Chang continues to be one of the most genuine and caring people I’ve ever met. She inspired me to stay connected to who I am and to always lead with kindness, just like she does.
She truly deserves this award because she has given so much of herself to her students and her community. Her love for teaching shows in every word, every lesson, and every smile she shares. She continues to touch hearts, lift others up, and make a difference in ways that go far beyond the classroom. Ms. Chang is the kind of teacher who stays in your heart forever, and I feel so lucky to have been one of her students!
Ms. Chang is a changer. She loved her students and always encourage her students and community members to tell about their own experiences and stories. She is an authentic teacher and person who continues to support others no matter what.
Ms. Chang was my Hmong teacher when I was 14 years old, and even now at 23 years old, I’m still deeply touched by her kindness and the impact she’s had on my life. She wasn’t just a teacher; she was someone who believed in her students and made learning feel meaningful and full of heart.
I learned so much from her, not only about the Hmong language and culture, but also about pride, patience, and compassion. Till this day, Ms. Chang continues to be one of the most genuine and caring people I’ve ever met. She inspired me to stay connected to my roots and to always lead with kindness, just like she does.
She truly deserves this award because she has given so much of herself to her students and her community. Her love for teaching shows in every word, every lesson, and every smile she shares. She continues to touch hearts, lift others up, and make a difference in ways that go far beyond the classroom. Ms. Chang is the kind of teacher who stays in your heart forever, and I feel so lucky to have been one of her students.
Mrs. Chang is an extraordinary individual whose dedication and compassion have made a lasting impact on our community. From day one, she has selflessly devoted her time, energy, and heart to helping others. Whether through volunteer work, community outreach, or simply being a source of encouragement to those around her, Mrs. Chang continues to lead by example.
Her humility, kindness, and unwavering positivity inspire everyone she meets. She doesn’t seek recognition or praise — instead, she focuses on uplifting others and creating meaningful change. Mrs. Chang’s actions remind us all what true community spirit looks like: serving with love, leading with grace, and bringing light wherever she goes.
There is no one more deserving of recognition than Mrs. Chang. Her consistent efforts and genuine heart have not only strengthened our community but have also touched countless lives in ways that words can hardly describe.
Phoua is a phenomenal individual. I’ve been able to witness her growth throughout the years and the way the way she loves speaks volume. Her energy is contagious. She inspires and empowers everyone around her!
Ms. Chang gives so much to the community, but her role as a teacher shines the brightest. Her love for teaching touches students, colleagues, parents, family, and friends. I feel truly grateful to know her.
Ms. Chang has truly been an inspiration. Her constant dedication to being an educator has influence me to become an educator as well. She truly makes a difference in her scholar’s learning and lives.
Ms. Chang has always been passionate about teaching. She is a kind hearted and caring individual who is always there for others. May you continue to be an inspiration to your students and all of us.
Ms. Chang is such a great teacher! All of her students are so lucky to have her. She always helps out her community and does so much for everyone. Her sense of humor, kindness, and compassion really speaks out about her. She is the kind of person that you would want to be around with !
Not only is Ms. Chang an excellent teacher, but she is also an advocate for her community. I had the honor of witnessing her in action as teacher and a community member. I had the opportunity to collaborate with Ms. Chang to implement a Healing Dialogue workshop. Through her guidance and support, we were able to create a safe space for individuals to share their stories. Her love and dedication to uplift her students and community is irreplaceable. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than Ms. Chang. She’s truly changed my life, and I know her influence has touched and uplifted so many others as well.
Ms. Chang is a very passionate teacher, who strives to be a great role model for her students and everyone around her.
Ms. Chang is an individual whom will not give up easily on helping others.
