LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Ryan Kurada was nominated by an anonymous parent of a student.

"I was writing this nomination for Ryan Kurada, and my 6 year old son said, 'Mom, you are going to write what I say about Mr. Kurada, right?' In fact, there is nothing easier than soliciting positive feedback about one of the most talented and magical teachers I have ever come across," said his nominator. "However, I would like to start by listing the words my son uses to describe Ryan Kurada as his K/1 teacher: Kind, fun, always smiling, happy, super smart, never mad, amazing.  I must concur."

Mr. Kurada and his nominator have known each other since 2014, the second year University Elementary at La Fiesta was open. The school was started with a dream of providing a Project Based Learning curriculum at the elementary level.  Since Mr. Kurada walked on campus, his contagious passion for education has provided a base for this growing school, which serves a diverse and passionate population. Mr. Kurada has been a leader in coaching other teachers in PBL and has literally brought students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members together. He fills his classroom with guest speakers from the community and highlights the talent that surrounds his school. The quality of teachers at his school is outstanding, and they are now collaborating and sharing ideas as the school becomes a showcase of Project Based Learning.

Mr. Kurada's passion for the students and community involvement knows no bounds.  He orchestrates showcase evenings, and student work is proudly put on display with artistic genius. His mantra is, "It's incredible what they can do if given the chance." The community has grown closer and stronger as they attend the events Mr. Kurada organizes for his class.

"As a parent, I look forward to attending as I grow closer to our classroom community," said the nominator. "I have seen Ryan's reputation blossom at the county level, state level and recently national level.  He has been recognized with various awards and was named in a speech at a Department of Education national conference.  But recognition is not what Ryan is looking for, and you would know that if you spent one hour in his classroom.  He is a teacher that respects student work, student opinions, collaboration, student creativity, and feedback."

Mr. Kurada is an amazing teacher, but he is also a LifeChanger.  He has had students in his class who had been struggling with academics, socializaton, or behaviors. By the time students leave his class in the spring, they've changed in many positive ways.  Not only are the students confident in their work beacuase of Mr. Kurada's encouragement, but their families believe in their abilities, as well.  Mr. Kurada looks for the good in all students and works tirelessly to bring those traits to the surface.  His kind and gentle nature nourishes students of all abilities.

Mr. Kurada's classes consist of English learners, special need studetns, and economically disadvantaged students of different levels and abilities. The students are excited for school and work collaboratively while developing skills in cooperation and public speaking that strengthen as they move forward in school. It is life-changing for the students and families, who may have previously been struggling to give their child the supportive start they need in their educatonal career.

Mr. Kurada documents what happens in his class consistently, and parents can follow the events happening on Twitter.  Daily accomplishments are celebrated, and his incredible ideas in Project Based Learning are shared freely to any educator who is interested in learning more.  You can follow Ryan on Twitter @Ryan_Kurada or visit his website at RKLearningStudio.com.

"My son says is best: 'I love going to school because I get to be with Mr. Kurada.' It's a sentiment you'll find year after year," said the nominator.