LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Eric Endow

Position: Adaptive Physical Education Specialist
School: New Haven Unified School District
School District: New Haven Unified School District
City, State: Union City, CA

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Eric Endow was nominated by his colleague, Michelle Concepcion.

For over 35 years, Coach Endow has been a cornerstone of the New Haven Unified School District's Physical Education program, transforming the way students of all abilities experience movement, confidence, and joy. As the district's Adaptive Physical Education (APE) teacher for grades K–8, Coach Endow has dedicated his career to ensuring that every child, regardless of ability or disability, has meaningful access to physical education.

Coach Endow's impact extends far beyond physical activity. He changes lives through compassion, creativity, and a steadfast belief in every student's potential. He designs individualized PE programs tailored to each student's unique strengths and challenges, fostering success and self-esteem through movement. His patience, humor, and positive energy make him a trusted mentor and role model for students who often face significant barriers in traditional PE settings.

Beyond his direct work with students, Coach Endow plays a vital leadership role within the district. He collaborates closely with general education PE teachers to model inclusive practices, promote empathy, and create environments where all students feel valued and capable. His expertise and guidance have helped build a school culture rooted in respect, equity, and teamwork.

A consummate professional, Coach Endow embodies integrity, humility, and dedication. His commitment to nurturing both the physical and emotional well-being of his students has inspired generations of families and educators. Through decades of quiet, consistent service, he has exemplified what it truly means to be a LifeChanger, empowering students to move, grow, and thrive in body and spirit.

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Comments (10)

Katrina Kuo Posted 4 months ago

I don’t remember exactly when I first met Coach Eric in elementary school, but it feels like he has been in my life forever. I remember Coach Eric pulling me out of classes to play adaptive bowling, balloon volleyball, Jenga, or Operation. I later realized that he was pulling me out to do adaptive PE, but I just knew it as a fun time with a fun adult figure. One afternoon, when the elevator broke down and my aide had already left, I was stranded on the second floor with my school bus waiting. When it became clear the repairs would take too long, Coach Eric stepped in. He safely carried me down to the first floor while four other teachers followed with my wheelchair. It was a moment that went far beyond his job description, showing just how deeply he cared for my safety and well-being. That was one of the many examples where I felt safe, cared for, and looked after by him. He never talked down to kids; he always treated us as equals, which I would take advantage of later in middle school when I would tease or nag him. He would humor me with a joking eye roll or a sassy remark. He was always kind, incredibly patient, and somehow always cheerful and encouraging. His job can be tough, but he always puts a smile on no matter the circumstance. When I had to leave for high school, Coach Eric (and Miss Dina!) were some of the only reasons why I was reluctant to leave. I didn’t want to leave the warm and loving environment he cultivated. It was hard saying goodbye to someone who had such a positive impact on my life. Later in high school, I reconnected with Coach Eric for my school’s yearbook team. When it came time for me to do a feature on the Special Olympics, I knew I could count on Coach Eric for photos. His love for photography and his students shines in those photos. His love for students old and new is so genuine and heartwarming. Coach Eric exemplifies the term “life changer,” and no one deserves this award more than him.

Evelyn Kuo Posted 4 months ago

I was a student of Coach Endow's throughout my time at Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School (2011-2015), and he truly has changed my life. I have Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a neuromuscular disease that renders me wheelchair-bound, and it was rare for me to find educators who so completely empathized with and understood my disability as much as Coach Endow did. In my Adaptive Physical Education class, Coach Endow simultaneously respected my boundaries and pushed me to participate in exercises that I otherwise wouldn't be able to do without his quick and accommodating mind. Beyond his brilliance as a special education teacher, he was also a kind friend. Not many educators would put up with teasing from a rambunctious adolescent, much less philosophize with one as an intellectual equal. He made me feel that way: like his equal. Of course, I also knew he was to be revered. Only someone with as big of a heart as Coach Endow would visit me at speech and debate tournaments in the mountains to show support when I was in high school, long past his time as my PE teacher, or speak into existence my acceptance into Stanford University, the school of my dreams. My life is for the better because of Coach Endow.

Jill Brabson Posted 4 months ago

I worked with Eric Endow for 32 years in Union City. I think we interviewed on the same day even! He made Adapted PE so much fun and inclusive for my students and all the others he had. Eric went over and above his school duties and even ran a team for Challenger league for kids with special needs on the weekends! He put his heart and soul into his job and the students loved him! Eric truly deserves this award! I think he is irreplaceable!

Dina Padilla Posted 5 months ago

Having worked alongside Coach Eric for more than 20 years, I’ve seen the heart he brings to his work every day. His dedication isn’t just about showing up- it’s about genuinely caring for his students and wanting the best for each one of them. Coach Eric has a calm steady presence that makes students feel safe, supported and valued. He meets them where they are, encourages them when they struggle and celebrates their growth-big or small! His impact goes far beyond the classroom, it lives on in the students whose lives he has touched!

Arnel Buenaobra Posted 5 months ago

Eric truly deserved this nomination for the National LifeChanger of the Year Award. Praying he'll get this award. His belief in his students is unshakable. I was a witness in his teaching style. He turns every challenge into a chance, and sees ability before disability. And he always wear his smile! Best of good luck to you, Eric!

Rebecca Gross Posted 5 months ago

He was my adapted PE Teacher at Ceaser Chavez. He was very good at supporting me and adapting to the different sports. He was a really good teacher. I'm glad to have been a student of his. I am now almost 25. He was my teacher from the Fall of 2012 to the Spring of 2015.

Heather Kim Posted 5 months ago

Coach Eric has been a part of my son's education for over 11 years! Thanks, Coach, for making sure that Darius and his classmates all get a good workout in their APE classes!

Blaine Cowick Posted 5 months ago

I used to ge Eric’s supervisor at New Haven. He is the most outstanding APE teacher I gave supervised in 35 years as a special education director. Eric is well deserving of this recognition. Please feel free to contact me if I can further assist! Blaine Cowick, Ph.D.

Diana Rivera Leal Posted 5 months ago

Congratulations Eric, I always admired the way you treated ALL students.. when you came into use Kitayama cafeteria. Again Congratulations you Deserve this special Recognition and Award.. Ms. Diana Leal (Retired Kids First Specialist)

Jaime Selby Posted 5 months ago

My son, Matthew Selby, is always talking about Coach Eric (which is surprising because Matthew doesn’t enjoy physical activities). He’s made such an impact on my son in a short amount of time.