LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jong Lee

Position: Physical Education Teacher / Athletic Director
School: Alliance Leichtman Levine Family Foundation HS
School District: Alliance College Ready Public Schools - LAUSD
City, State: Los Angeles, CA

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Jong Lee was nominated by his principal, Talin Darkjian.

"In just his first year at Alliance Leichtman-Levine Environmental Science High School, Coach Jong Lee has become an anchor of our athletic and school community. A veteran physical education teacher, coach, and athletic director, Mr. Lee brings a wealth of experience. More importantly, he is bringing heart, discipline, and a deep belief in the potential of every scholar-athlete he encounters - something we brought him on board to do when we asked him to join our school community to rebuild our athletic program," said Darkjian.

Coach Lee has raised the bar for excellence, both on and off the court, by instilling the values of teamwork, accountability, and perseverance. His players speak of him with admiration and gratitude. At the girls' volleyball Senior Night, multiple students shared emotional reflections about how Coach Lee has changed their lives. One senior tearfully expressed that she had "learned more in one season with him than in the past three years combined." The students he works with know that his tough love comes from genuine care: he holds them to high expectations because he sees who they can become.

Coach Lee's leadership extends far beyond the gym. Under his direction, the athletic programming has brought together students, staff, and families in celebration of school pride. Dozens of students, staff, and families filled the stands to cheer on the athletes- a testament to the sense of belonging and shared pride he has cultivated. Professionally, Mr. Lee is deeply respected by colleagues for his integrity, work ethic, and commitment to doing right by students.

"Coach Jong Lee exemplifies what it means to be a LifeChanger: he uplifts students through high expectations and compassion, strengthens the fabric of the school community, and leads with unwavering integrity. His impact is already profound, and his legacy is only beginning," said Darkjian.

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Comments (10)

Regina Zamorano Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Lee isn’t just an educator, he’s become one of the most important people in my life. His steady strength makes you want to rise to his expectations, not out of fear, but because he believes in you. When I struggled, he didn’t just encourage me: he coached me, gave me tools, and reminded me of my worth. By holding us to such high standards while meeting us where we were, he pushed me toward excellence I never thought possible. Through him, I’ve learned what it truly means to work hard, lead with purpose, and believe in myself. I wouldn’t have wanted it in any other way.

Mariela Zavala Posted 8 months ago

Lee creates a supportive, family-like environment, emphasizing in personal development through discipline and hard work, which has helped me grow not only as a player but as a person. What’s really special about Lee is his ability to see potential in each of his players. He encourages us to step outside our comfort zones, always believing in our ability to improve.

angie Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Lee is not only an exceptional coach, but also an outstanding individual who genuinely cares about his students. He is someone you can trust, always willing to listen and provide thoughtful guidance and support. His leadership has made a lasting impact on many of his athletes, helping them grow not only on the court but as individuals as well.

Daisy Posted 8 months ago

Thanks to coach Lee, I have improved so much this year than i have in the past 4 years of playing volleyball. Lee always helps each player grow with skills, confidence, and mindset. He always gives us feedback and encourages us to be our best. Coach Lee has changed my experience in volleyball and i am grateful for everything he has done for me.

Juliet Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Lee has made a huge impact on the sports teams in just a few months. He’s always been such a great mentor to me and truly cares for the students and especially the athletes. I met him in my freshman year and he has always been a strong support to me and helped me through tough times.

Regina Zamorano Posted 8 months ago

Jeremy Posted 8 months ago

Dr Lee is the best. End of discussion

Elizabeth Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Lee is a very thoughtful and caring understanding person. He shows up with belief and a steady kind of support that makes everyone around him feel seen, heard and understood. He’s the type of person who pushes you to be better not because he expects it but because he genuinely believes you can be. His guidance and advice is emotional in the best way. He is patient, and very understanding making him not only a leader but a mentor who shapes character, confidence, and also intelligent.

Sunday Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Lee truly cares deeply for his students and it shows through the amount of time and care he pours into them. Lots of students know they can count on him as not only a teacher or coach, but as a caring individual who will listen and share in life with them. He's the type of teacher who students will remember long into their adult lives as someone who had a positive impact.

jayden marrero Posted 9 months ago

hes a very good pe teacher and he helps all students out