Shanita Ables
Position: Fifth Grade Teacher and Curriculum Writer
School: South Columbus Elementary School
School District: Muscogee County School District
City, State: Columbus, GA
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Music that Describes Shanita
Shanita Ables was nominated by her spouse, Darius Ables.
"I am nominating my wife because she is one of the most extraordinary educators, leaders, and human beings I have ever known. What she does for her students is not ordinary work. It is transformational, life-altering work that changes trajectories, reignites hope, and redefines what children believe is possible for themselves. I've watched her sacrifice day after day, year after year, pouring everything she has into students who the world too often counts out before they even get a chance. She refuses to let her students be defined by their neighborhood, their school's reputation, or the stories others try to write about them. She teaches students daily that their narrative belongs to them, and she works relentlessly to help them build one they can be proud of," said Mr. Ables.
What most people don't see is her six-day-a-week commitment:
- Monday through Friday, she stays after school to tutor, ensuring no child is left behind academically or emotionally.
- Saturday, she runs Saturday School, not for discipline, but for ambition. Students come because they want to exceed their previous test scores, and she gladly gives up her weekends to help them do so. The results speak for themselves: every single year, 80% or more of her students grow in reading, many by multiple grade levels. That level of consistent growth is unheard of, and it is the direct result of her relentless belief in her students' brilliance.
Her impact reaches far beyond traditional teaching. Mrs. Ables is an educational rapper, known by her students as Lil Kurriculum, who uses hip-hop pedagogy to bring content to life, help students memorize complex concepts, and connect culturally in ways that unlock engagement like magic. Kids chant her lyrics, study through her beats, and see themselves reflected in the lessons she performs.
She also led her class in co-authoring and publishing a five-chapter poetry novel titled "The Trailblazers of Tomorrow." This book is more than literature—it is a proclamation. Through writing, her students reclaimed their identities, challenged stereotypes, and rewrote their stories. Mrs. Ables not only taught students to read, but to speak power over their future.
Her leadership extends across the district: she is a curriculum writer shaping instruction for countless students beyond her classroom. She presents at multiple educational conferences, inspiring deans, professors, aspiring teachers, and veteran educators with her innovative approaches, culturally responsive mindset, and revolutionary literacy techniques. Most recently, she started her own education consulting business: Lit for Learning Headquarters—a consulting firm dedicated to reimagining education for the modern generation. Through it, she serves as a professional speaker, trainer, and curriculum specialist, impacting educators nationwide with her creativity, expertise, and fire for equity.
Last year, she received one of the most meaningful recognitions of her career: the Golden Apple Teacher of the Year, awarded based on a student nomination. The student wrote about her unforgettable, unorthodox, and transformational teaching style—proof that her reach goes far beyond academics. She changes hearts, mindsets, and lifelong belief systems.
Inside her school, she is a leader who elevates the entire atmosphere. She builds a nurturing environment where students feel safe, valued, and seen. She leads her grade level, mentors colleagues, collaborates across teams, and models excellence with humility and joy. Her moral and ethical foundation guides everything she does. She advocates for the underserved, supports the overlooked, and gives her all to those who need it the most.
"As her husband, I have the honor of witnessing the parts no one else sees: the late-night planning sessions, the stacks of novels she buys with her own money, the tears over kids who've never been believed in, the celebrations when they finally see their own brilliance, the way she refuses to let a single student slip through the cracks. She is not just a teacher. She is not just a curriculum writer, conference speaker, or educational rapper. She is not just a business owner or a literacy expert. She is a LifeChanger. A narrative-shifter. A destiny-shaper. A builder of confidence and collector of miracles. And every single day, I'm grateful that I get to witness her change lives—one student, one lesson, one beat, one book, one breakthrough at a time," said Darius.
I am extremely proud of the many positive contribution Shanita makes in the lives of her students. Also, her co-workers are motivated by her positive energy and passion.
Shanita is an amazing woman with many gifts. She’s is an inspiration for the vision she carries in the educational field and is very influential to others around her. I admire her drive, ambition, and love to make a difference in the younger generation lives. She’s is truly one-of-a kind!
Shanita is a true leader in her field. Her ability to connect with the children she serves is truly remarkable. I have had the privilege of working alongside her as a Partner in Education through Synovus, and her impact is evident every time you step into her classroom.
Shanita’s ability to keep students engaged during instructional time is unmatched. The way children respond to her and genuinely enjoy learning under her guidance is inspiring to witness. Her classroom environment is warm, inviting, and intentionally designed, filled with visual information that supports learning even for students who may learn through observation or “gazing.”
She creates a space where curiosity is encouraged and every child feels supported. Shanita is incredibly deserving of this recognition, and so much more for the passion, creativity, and dedication she brings to her students each and every day.
Shanita is a true beacon of inspiration. Her passion for teaching shines through in everything she does, and her heart for children is unmistakable. She believes deeply in helping every student rise to their fullest potential—and she brings that vision to life through creativity, innovation, and a genuine love for learning.
Her classroom is a place where ideas come alive and confidence grows, and her students are unmistakably better because of her dedication.
How wonderful for a SCES teacher to be nominated for such a prestigious award! This recognition speaks not only to Mrs. Ables, but to SCES for their dedication and support of their teachers as they guide, teach and help direct the young lives of our community. Thank you Shanita Ables for your dedication to your students and for being a true "Life-Changer".
I work for Synovus and have had the honor of meeting and working with Mrs. Ables through volunteering at South Columbus Elementary School. As a learning professional, I am impressed by the way Mrs. Ables excites, energizes and engages with her students. Each time I've entered her classroom the students are very happy and ready to work. She is definitely a motivator and an extremely gifted and talented teacher. If you spend a minute in her classroom, you can tell that she has a passion for her students and strong desire to see them each succeed.
Mrs. Ables is an exceptional and truly inspirational teacher. I have the privilege of witnessing her teaching practices on a monthly basis, and each time I am reminded of how gifted she is in her craft. She connects with her students in meaningful ways—encouraging them, engaging them, and offering tutoring opportunities that support their growth. She genuinely cares.
Teaching is undeniably her calling. Her creativity makes learning not only effective, but also exciting and memorable. She embodies everything I have ever admired in a great educator. Mrs. Ables is a true gem in the educational world.
Her positive energy radiates throughout the classroom and influences everyone around her. I am grateful for the opportunity to visit her class and observe the impact she has on her students. Experiences like these make learning—and my role as a professional partnering with her school—so rewarding.
Mrs. Ables is an amazing teacher. She joined our SCES family only this August and has been inspiring and motivating both students and staff. She is such a joy to work with and anyone can see that she is dedicated to her craft. She is definitely a life changer. I cannot wait to see what else she does in the years to come!
Shanita Ables deserves this honor because she is an awesome human being, period. I grew up with Shanita in elementary school in Maryland, and I can honestly say, she was a natural born leader even then. Her presence and personality could light up the room! I’m happy to report that she has not changed (smile), and is continuing to make impact in the classroom environment with her creativity and attention to detail. I’m proud of who Shanita has become.
Shanita is a wonderful, positive, enthusiastic educator. She puts her heart into developing curriculum that engages her students and makes the learning process fun and intriguing. She has made a difference year over year in the lives of the students she has taught. She strives to instill children with confidence in their ability to learn and be successful.
She’s beautiful inside and out she’s a amazing teacher and she’s loved by many
A very great person inside and out , she is a teacher at my daughter school and she is just great with the kids always there for help and answers to any questions you may have I could never thank her enough for all she do and how great she teaches the kids thank you for being a amazing person :)
Mrs. Ables, is a phenomenal educator!!! She fosters the learning of her students in ways that may seem unimaginable, unthinkable and impossible. Her philosophy of teaching, allows her students to wonder, discover, question and think about things differently! She makes learning real and fun! She also helps her students see their very own talents and worth within themselves. Mrs. Ables ensures that her students experience the challenges and victories! Lastly, Mrs. Ables is a Difference Maker, and Life-Changer!
Having served as her academic coach has given me a front-row seat to what her husband describes. From the moment she walks into a room, her energy can be felt. She doesn’t just teach lessons; she touches lives.
I have watched her turn ordinary moments into powerful learning experiences. Her creativity and love for her students shine through everything she does. She creates a safe space where students feel seen and valued. Because of her, students rewrite their stories and see their own potential. Her classroom is filled with trust, laughter, and growth.
Beyond her students, she inspires fellow educators around her. Her passion and work ethic remind others why they chose this profession. She leads by example, lifting those beside her and building a culture of hope and belief. Through her unique teaching style and strong advocacy for every child she demonstrates that as an educator she is also a life-changer.
I had the pleasure of working with Mrs. Ables for a year at Mary A. Buckner Academy. Every time I visited her classroom, I witnessed a teacher with a genuine, unwavering passion for giving her students her very best. She ensured that her students were not only learning but also enjoying the process, fostering a love for learning that they eagerly shared with her. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Ables was incredibly supportive of the cheerleading team, bringing her bubbly personality and positive energy to encourage the team during practice sessions. I am in full support of Mrs. Ables being named Life Changer of the Year—there is truly no one more deserving of this recognition.
Incredibly proud of how far you've come as an educator, leader and change maker! You've made so much impact already. Can't wait to see where else your journey takes you!
It is with the highest admiration and wholehearted conviction that I nominate Shanita Ables, an educator whose impact transcends classrooms, curriculum, and conventional definitions of teaching. Shanita is one of the most extraordinary educators, leaders, and human beings I have ever known. What she does for her students is not ordinary work it is transformational, life-altering work that changes trajectories, reignites hope, and redefines what children believe is possible for themselves.
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I nominate my younger sister as she is a transformational presence in the lives of her students. Every day, she brings passion, preparation, and purpose into her classroom, creating an environment where students feel seen, challenged, and genuinely supported.
Shanita is a shining star that loves what she does. She has a heart for children and always wants them to reach their maximum potential. She has creative, innovative ways to present curriculum and her students are better because of it. Congratulations on being a life changer of the year nominee, very deserving!
Mrs. Shanita Ables: motivator, stimulator, outstanding teacher. Her innovative techniques help students develop confidence and build communication and public speaking skills that will help promote their growth and proficiency goals. She is truly an asset to our school.
This is Shanita Ables first year here at South Columbus, she is truly an asset to our school. She is not only a positive role model for the students but also for the teachers. She always has a smile on her face is very inspiring. She finds creative and engaging ways to to inspire and encourage to be their best. She supports many of school functions during and after school hours. It is truly a pleasure to have here at South Columbus.
Mrs. Ables is a great teacher. As someone who has decided to become teacher, Mrs. Ables has greatly influenced the decision and the teacher I want to become. South Columbus is blessed and very grateful to have her here. The times I've spent in her room, her students are engaged and she is attentive to what they need and are doing. She is truly valued and appreciated at South Columbus.
I think she is the best qualified because She is a extrodinary hard working person that always sets a good example. She's always been a high achiever. Mediocracy does not match her personality. She is beautiful from the inside out and has a heart of gold.
This recognition highlights the value of dedication, high standards, and a genuine commitment to those you serve. Thank you, Shanita Ables, for your continued dedication and for consistently demonstrating excellence in your work. Your efforts make a meaningful and lasting impact.
Mrs. Ables exemplifies selflessness and unwavering dedication in everything she does for her students. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every child knows they are supported, encouraged, and are capable of success. Her classroom is always warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed to make learning fun, engaging, and exciting for all students.
Her love for education is truly unmatched, and she brings stories and texts to life in a way that sparks curiosity and a genuine passion for reading in her students. Her approach to teaching is anything but ordinary. She uses creative, innovative learning styles that stand apart from what is typically seen on a daily basis, making lessons memorable and meaningful.
Mrs. Ables’ remarkable personality, patience, and compassion for learning shines through in every interaction. She builds strong, lasting connections with her students and leaves an impact that reaches far beyond the classroom. Her passion for education and commitment to her students make her an exceptional educator and a truly deserving nominee.
Mrs. Ables is an exceptional teacher. I have learned alot from her as a paraprofessional. She has impacted my decision and the way I will teach when I become a teacher. We are blessed and so grateful to have her as a 5th grade teacher.
So deserving! Your impact goes far beyond the classroom, our students and school community are truly better because of you. This is what transformational teaching looks like!! Your dedication, creativity, and heart for students do not go unnoticed <3 We are so proud to learn and grow alongside you. Congratulations on this well-earned recognition Mrs. Ables!
Mrs. Ables is an amazing teacher. She is always going above and beyond what is expected of her. She always come ready to teach with a smile on her face.
Mrs. Ables is my daughter's 5th grade teacher. She has made such a difference in my daughters life, she now wants to become a teacher as well. She's not only inspiring but she is supportive. She goes above and beyond for her students. She makes learning fun and interesting. She knows how to not only grab their attention but keep it as well. She is the best teacher any of my children have ever had. Truly.
Mrs. Ables is an amazing teacher. Her new and innovative ways of teaching has brought smiles to the faces of all of jus at South Columbus. The students in the 5th are excited about learning. She is truly an awesome educator!!
I am in support of Mrs. Ables. She is truly a trial blazer, a go getter, an inspiration to those around her. Way to go Mrs. Ables!!!
This recognition speaks to the importance of dedication, high expectations, and service to students, qualities that strengthen our entire school community. Thank YOU, Shanita Ables, for your continued dedication to students and your commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
Shanita is truly a life changer in every sense of the word. She consistently uses her creativity and talent to ensure that her students feel safe, seen, and supported in every space she leads. Her classroom is more than a place of learning. It is a place where students are affirmed, challenged, and deeply cared for. Her intentional approach to teaching, allows her students to grow not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. They know they matter because she shows them through her actions every single day.
Her impact extends far beyond her students and reaches the educators fortunate enough to learn from her as well. As my mentor, Shanita has had a profound influence on my life as an educator and as a person. She leads with wisdom, compassion, and high expectations, always encouraging me to walk boldly in my purpose while remaining grounded in integrity and heart. Through her guidance, support, and honest conversations, I have become a stronger, more confident educator.
Shanita’s work creates a powerful ripple effect. The students she teaches and the educators she mentors carry her lessons forward into their own classrooms and communities. This nomination reflects the countless lives she has touched and the lasting impact she continues to make. This recognition is truly well deserved, and her legacy of love, excellence, and service will continue to grow for years to come.
