Joseph Serviss was nominated anonymously.
"I remember a day when the weight of the semester felt insurmountable. I walked into the room feeling invisible, convinced that my struggle with a particular concept was a sign of failure. Serviss didn't just give me the answer or tell me to 'try harder.' Instead, they pulled up a chair, looked at my work, and said, 'This isn't a wall. It's just a puzzle we haven't solved yet.' That simple shift in perspective—from seeing a dead end to seeing a challenge—changed how I approached every obstacle from that day forward. It wasn't just about the lesson. It was about the belief that I was capable of overcoming the 'unsolvable,'" said the nominator.
my favvvv ever teacher ! he was always more than a teacher to me , he was like family . he put his all into teaching and truly loves what he does . i miss having him as a teacher but forever my fav
One of the most genuine and real teachers I regrettably never even had. I was never directly in his class but strong personalities gravitate! Mr Serviss always took a second to say hello, see what’s up and was more than happy to play any character we thought up for our Broadcasting projects! He is more than deserving of this award. Mr Serviss is not just the life changer of the year, he is a life changer EVERY YEAR!
I hope you feel just as much love right now as you have poured into us Mr Serviss, it is most deserved.
Mr. Serviss has taught both of my children and they wouldn’t be where they are today without his guidance, understanding, PATIENCE, compassion, and passion to teach and lead students to be better than they were when they entered his classroom
When I was in high school, Mr. Serviss was always there for me when I needed support. I remember one time when I was having a really hard time with a project for another class, and he noticed I was struggling. He sat down with me, listened, and helped me figure out how to move forward. Moments like that showed me he was more than just a teacher, he was someone who truly cared. He guided me when I felt unmotivated and helped me believe in myself. Because of him, I became more confident, more outgoing, and far less afraid of speaking in front of others.
When I first met you my freshman year, I was blown away with your personality. Full of life and willing to pour yourself to all of your students. Now having you again twice my sophomore year, you are a true inspiration. You are always there for me, even my quirks and side eyes. Through my struggles, you make sure I am okay.
You are the teacher that inspires me to push hard and be my best. Thank you for all you do.
One of the only teachers who used to help me when I was feeling down when I was a Robinson bulldog (class of 2019). I appreciate everything he did for me till this day.
Mr. Serviss is a really good teacher, and he is a really funny guy. He always checks on how people are doing and is really nice. His class is really fun to be in, and you can tell that he wants his students to be successful. He goes the extra mile to help us learn and grow, and his positive and upbeat attitude and support make learning from him cool.
Joseph was a teacher at Jay M Robinson High School when I attended there. I never had him as one of my teachers though I should've by how much time I spent in his classroom whether it was just to stop in and say hey or to sit and talk about life. He is one of the most genuine person I've ever met he has so much love and compassion. He quickly became one of my favorite people at Jay M and anytime i had an issue he would always try to find a way to cheer me up. When my dad had passed I had gone into school because I needed to talk to and tell Joseph. At the time of his passing I had known Joseph for 4 years and he became a father figure to me especially after my dad had passed. To this day I still call him my "adopted dad". To this day we still keep in contact whether its a holiday or just to say hi and check in. There is no other person I could think of that deserves this more than him.
He helped me when I was down in the dumps great man
He changes my life about how I see the army
I am delighted to nominate Mr. Joseph Serviss for the National LIFE Changer Teacher of the Year and to write this recommendation on his behalf. Throughout the years I have worked with Mr. Serviss, I have consistently observed that he is well prepared and regularly goes above and beyond what is required of him as a lead mentor, colleague, and educator. His contributions to our school and community are thoughtful, perceptive, and insightful.
Mr. Serviss is an independent and highly creative thinker who frequently seeks out alternative perspectives during group discussions, which truly distinguishes him as a leader. He is highly respected by his students, alumni, and colleagues alike due to his ability to relate to individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. He possesses a deep understanding of his content area and is exceptionally knowledgeable in his field of study.
In my opinion, Mr. Serviss is a talented and versatile educator. I strongly believe that his high standards, strong work ethic, and outstanding personal characteristics will ensure his continued success in any future endeavors, both inside and beyond the classroom.
I have only know Mr. Serviss for a week and I consider him as one of my favorite teachers because he's serious, doesn't play, and has an amazing personality!
Mr. Serviss was my favorite teacher and there is no comparison. He accepted everyone as they were, but there were so many ways in which he inspired us to be a better version of that. He was always willing to talk, and sometimes that meant tough love. There was never any doubt though that it was love. He just had a way of making you see things differently, or even seeing yourself differently.
He has sincerely been an incredible teacher to me he has made a huge impact on my life not only by teaching me the lessons in class but by inspiring me to be the best version of myself every single day His patience, kindness, and especially his dedication have not gone unnoticed I have learned so much from him not just by the lessons he gives in class but also about life, responsibility, and believing in my own yourself he always take the time to listen, encourage, and support his students that attention has made a difference for me personally and I know it has for many other students as well he has a way of making his students feel valued and understood and has created an environment where learning is exciting, motivating.I appreciate the time and effort he has put into teaching.I am so grateful to have had his support, I can honestly say that he is a teacher who leaves a lasting impact on his students.
One of a kind right here!
He’s a wonderful teacher and mentor. My kids thoroughly enjoyed having him as a teacher and he left a lasting impression to say the least. We need more teachers like this. You can tell he puts his heart and soul into it and he genuinely cares about his students.
Mr. Serviss has changed my life in a way I never expected a teacher to do so. I’m only a sophomore and i’ve had the privilege to take Mr. Serviss class 3 times. He is fun and bubbly and cares about his students more than himself. His classroom environment is un like any other. He checks in on his students and will do anything for them to succeed. He has a different perspective on teaching and the world of education, he wants to prepare students for the world we live in and how they can succeed in it. Mr. Serviss deserves this more than anyone i’ve ever met.
It is with great enthusiasm that I can comment on an individual that was a colleague of mine on many levels and for many years. Joe Serviss is a teacher whose vision, dedication to his students, energy level, creative methods and outright love for being a teacher is without question worthy of being selected as a Life Changer of the Year recipient.
As I read the comments from many of Joe's previous students, the words they use to describe their teacher could not be more accurate: Supportive, Caring, Understanding, Empathy, Inspirational, Honest, Understanding......I could go on. I heard the same students in real time use these same words when speaking about their teacher....Mr. Serviss.
From an "extra-curricular" standpoint, Joe was instrumental in assisting me with the founding and building one of the best district-wide competitive VEX Robotics programs in the nation. This program was instrumental in transforming how students engage with engineering, problem?solving, and teamwork. Joe graciously donated hundreds if not thousands of hours to this program. Joe made the program fun and exciting for the participants and their families. Joe also dedicated much of his time with many other school activities. He was one of the more unselfish individuals I've ever worked with.
The National Life Group could not select a more worthy individual to represent the Life Changer of the Year title.
Mr. Serviss always felt more like family than a teacher. He cares deeply for each and every one of his students and makes an effort to connect with them unlike any other teacher I have seen before. He is kind, selfless and compassionate. I can’t think of any one else more deserving than him.
Throughout my high school years, he was more than just a teacher. He was a constant source of support, guidance, and encouragement when I needed it most. He believed in me even when I doubted myself, and he showed up in ways that went far beyond the classroom. He truly became a father figure to me, and the impact he’s had on my life is something I’ll carry with me forever.
At first before I actually met Mr.Serviss, I was a little intimidated by him. Now after meeting him, I know I can go to him for anything. He is supportive and caring in so many ways and will always be there to help out any of his students. He always (and I mean always) has a smile on his face even when he’s had a rough day. He is one of the best teachers I could ever have or ask for.
Mr. Serviss is an amazing teacher, very funny, and my spirit animal, thanks for making school fun 4 me
He has helped by teaching me that I am not alone and that I can always talk to him when i need someone to talk to
One of the best teachers I have had in my career as a student. Not only does he teach very well, but he also wants to see every student succeed and is willing to do whatever he can to help them reach goals. He is also very easy to talk to and overall brings the mood up when you are in his presence! Very fun person to be around
Our whole family appreciates Mr Serviss! Over the past 8 years he has taught & mentored both our boys in class & sports. We appreciate the frequent communication throughout this semester and his positivity. Unfortunately we don’t see this very often anymore! Thank you Mr Serviss for everything!
Mr Serviss has been a life saver, that man has made a path for me that I couldn’t get out of any other teacher, thank you for everything Mr Serviss!
Mr. servicss has been my teacher for this semester for entrepreneurship 1 and all thought i haven’t really had him for very long i tend to find myself being interested in the lesson. Some of the advice and life lesson he gives us does stick to me, I try to apply it for the rest of my day. You don’t find many teachers that care about their students and just try to get their job done yet Mr servicss isn’t that type of teacher, he wants to not only do good for job but he does good for his class. If i could pick one teacher who has impacted my life in a short little of a time i would choose mr servicss no doubt about it.
Mr Serviss is a amaizing teacher I didn't have anyone before but they kept saying bulldogs belong after being in his class I do feel as though I finally belong
i met mr. serviss my freshman year of high school when we were all still mostly online. from the very start, he supported me and helped me through all the tough times whether it was school related or something in my personal life. i only had him as a teacher officially for one other class after that, but he always made sure i knew that his door was always open for me should i ever need a shoulder to lean on. he was the one that helped me to find motivation to push through school when i was struggling the most. i truly wouldn't have made it through high school without him, he changed my life in many ways for the better. if anyone deserves an award like this, it's this man. like a second dad to me, i'll forever be grateful that i got the opportunity to have a teacher who cared so much about every individual student and become such an important figure in my life.
If there is any person who’s earned this award it’s for sure Mr.Serviss. You can tell from all the bonds he shares with his students that he’s one of the teachers that actually make a difference. I was class of ‘18 and still think about some of the lessons he taught us in class. His influence didn’t stop in the classroom though….You’d also see him encouraging students on the field, in the gym, or just around the school. A lot of students would’ve given up and not have graduated if he wasn’t a teacher (and friend!)
Some teachers leave an imprint that time never manages to fade & Mr. Serviss is one of those rare people for me. It's been nearly 10 years since I sat in his personal finance class, yet I remember often the way he encouraged us, believed in us & loved us unconditionally. Not every teacher becomes someone you remember for life, but Mr. Serviss did, because he earned that place. Joseph Serviss is most deserving of this award, because in every lesson, laugh & act of kindness, no one embodies the true spirit of a life changer more than he does.
When I went to Robinson back in 2015-2019 Mr. Serviss was the one out of about three teachers who let it be known to the students that he truly cares about our education and our personal lives. He made a huge impact in my life, and to this day I live by so many pieces of advice that he has given me.
Mr Serviss has been my homeroom teacher since the beginning and I couldn't have asked for anyone else, when I first met him I knew he was a funny person and I was totally right. Because of him I caught myself smiling and laughing during the most hardest times in my life, even tho homeroom was once a month, even seeing him in the halls would make me smile and I am grateful that I have met a person like him.
Mr. Serviss is the most kind hearted inspirational person i have had the pleasure to know he always puts people and his students first and tries to connect with them in the most positive ways
Joe Serviss was a wonderful colleague to work with! He was the lead mentor for me when I started my teaching journey and he was always my go to guy for discussing hard things with empathy and understanding. He is an incredible advocate for students and is always right there. Cheering on students and colleagues. He’s incredibly deserving of this award!
Mr. Serviss truly deserves to be recognized. He always goes above and beyond, not just academically but personally too. He genuinely cares about our success and takes the time to make sure we understand and feel confident in ourselves. What really sets him apart is how he prepares us for the real world and teaches us things that actually matter beyond the classroom. Because of him I feel more prepared for my future and more motivated to work hard. His dedication to his students makes a real difference and I’m grateful to have him as my teacher.
Mr. Serviss has changed my mindset since the moment I walked into his classroom freshman year of high school. He has taught me many lessons and how to improve the quality of my work exponentially, while continuing to improve my mindset and tell me how I can improve my work. I cannot thank Mr. Serviss enough for his support and dedication to mine and everyone else’s education!
Mr. Serviss is a very honest teacher and wants nothing but the best for us. He pushes us and helps us to our best. He is easily one of the best teachers I've had, and I enjoy being his student in every course I've taken with him.
I appreciate his honesty about things. He cares about these students and the direction of our education system. I vote for Mr.Serviss to receive the award.
Mr. Serviss goes above and beyond he is an exceptional outstanding individual who consistently exceeds expectations by doing more than required, showing initiative, taking extra steps, and demonstrating deep care or commitment, often without being asked, making him an asset and a valuable part of the team. His key traits are being proactive, resourceful and taking ownership to ensure tasks are done perfectly, not just adequately. He is dedicated and is an exemplary model for others. It would be our honor to have him receive this LifeChanger award.
Joe volunteers countless hours to helping make football Friday nights an amazing experience for all Robinson Bulldogs fans. His time and dedication to announcing Friday night football make the "Dawg Pound" one of the best places to experience a high school football game. Thank you.
I started at Jay M Robinson my junior year, having to have transferred halfway through my high school years, leaving all the friends I've known since middle school, starting completely fresh at a new school, introverted, and deep down, terrified. Mr. Serviss made it all worth it. He was not only one of the best teachers I've had, but he was, and still is, like a second father to me. He cares about his students more than other teachers, he takes them in as his own, cares for them, helps them learn and grow, not only academically, but as people. He's patient, kind, understanding, and not to mention hilarious! If I could go back and do it all over again, I would a thousand times. Mr. Serviss absolutely deserves this award. He changed my life and helped me grow and get to know myself better than I thought possible. He helped me see parts of me I didn't even know were there, and I miss being able to come into school excited knowing I'd get to attend his class. He allowed for all his students to have a safe space in that classroom. Thank you Serviss, for always being there for me when I needed it most, even if you didn't realize it :)
Mr. Serviss the teacher who truly deserves the greatest award!, i remember being in my sophomore year sitting in the back of his class struggling with myself not even trying to do my work until one day he pulled me aside and instead of just telling me i had to get it done or i else i would fail the course he asked me about myself and what i wanted he really got to know me in that moment and changed my perspective in such a way that now every time i feel conflicted i think of his wise words. Mr. serviss is a person who truly gets to know his students not just in the the classroom but also outside of it.He is someone who has truly never doubted that i have the ability to do anything as long as i truly put some thought and effort behind it i am now a junior and have a totality different perspective on certain things for myself just because a teacher cared. Love him from the bottom of my heart for everything <3!! I VOTE MR. SERVISS FOR THIS AWARD:)
As a former student of Mr. Serviss, I must say his influence, character, and abilities stand out. His sacrifice goes beyond his given duties; his interactions are wholesome, caring, and influential. He inspired each student carefully and thoroughly. He was well-informed of everything he taught. He brought good humor and sarcasm into the classroom. His words, his conversation, opened young minds. Serviss has yet to see all of the change he brought and might never see all he’s contributed, but in his classroom alone, effortlessly, with his wise words and generous nature, because it’s natural to him, he contributed growth for him and his students that is prominent. Serviss reads student responses thoroughly; he exceeds every standard. Serviss's words stick with me even today, as I’m out of college and in my career. Serviss helps struggling students, misbehaving students, all while being a father and helping with after-school events. He is everything a teacher should be and everything a man should be. It may not be understood how great he is, but if you knew, you would be extremely overwhelmed by all he does. Working and going to school, his words were the most constructive and helpful words that I needed. He goes unnoticed, unrewarded, but he’s not in it for an award; he truly puts his heart into what he does, being around that alone inspires.
I remember when he started teaching me life lessons I was so against it and wanted nothing to do with it but eventually he sat me down and explained why he does it he said that he does it to see us all succeed and make the right decision
Joe is the type of educator you want your children to have. He’s a trusted adult, an innovative teacher and someone who has that “young mentality” that the kids enjoy being around. I’ve seen Joe operate under pressure at large Vex Robotics events and he had a calm demeanor that others feed off of. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of “Lifechanger” than Joe.
Proud to have worked alongside Joe. He is truly a teacher who wants all his students to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. He challenges students, supports students and invests in them. We need more teacher/mentors like him in our school system.
Truly a caring man, so considerate of his students and what they may be going through!
Joe is quite possibly the greatest and most influential teacher I have ever had. As I have known him for going on 8 years now sense I was in 7th or 8th grade I can confidently say that he impacts the lives of everyone he comes in contact with. Especially given his contributions to the robotics team being a announcer and a active supporter of all the kids on or around the team. He is the most caring and funny guy I have the pleasure of being around. I remember him being there after a bad competition and me and my team were very unhappy at our performance and joe came over and gave us the talk of a lifetime. He told us that even when things get tough or when we feel as if we are incapable there is always a way to improve. These are word I still live by today and I truly do not know if I would have stayed in Robinsons robotics team if it was not for joe. He is a absolute legend and I absolutely love him as he is family forever.
I am absolutely delighted to support Mr. Serviss’s nomination for this award. When I was in my first year of high school, I wasn’t doing too well academically, and the school introduced a mentoring program. They asked me to pick a teacher I trusted the most, and I chose Mr. Serviss. With his enthusiasm and fantastic sense of humor, he quickly made the mentoring experience engaging and impactful. Over time, he not only mentored me but also became a beloved figure among many students. Even after I transferred to a different school, I kept in touch, and it’s been almost a decade since I graduated. Mr. Serviss’s dedication, kindness, and genuine care for both me and my family truly reflect the incredible mentor he is.
To be honest I couldn’t tell you 90% of my former teachers names but I will never forget Mr Serviss. I struggled a lot mentally in my junior year. I never felt comfortable bringing it up to anyone but I specifically remember Mr Serviss always being able to tell when something was wrong. He used to let me sit in his room when I was having a bad day just to talk. He let me talk about anything and everything and never once did he judge me. Believe it or not I’m almost 20 and I will never forget the things he taught me. Serviss always taught us things that mattered. Things that we would actually use in the real world. Ways to get around mental challenges and hardships. He did this by relating with us. Showing us that he’d been in the same position we were in. When I think of a life changer I don’t think of someone handing me a packet and telling me it’s due Friday. I think of the person who still checks up on his students and makes sure everything is okay with them years after they’ve left his classroom. I think of the person that no matter how long it’s been since I’ve seen him greets me with a smile and a hug. People that leave life long impressions like that deserve to be nominated for this award. They deserve the attention even though I assure you Mr Serviss is not seeking it. This award is for the educators that care. The ones that are teaching for the future and not just for a job. Mr Serviss is that teacher. I couldn’t have asked for a better one.
Mr. Serviss, also known as Coach Serviss, has always been amazing! He always does things with a purpose and wants everyone to understand the purpose of life. When I was a freshman in high school in 2014, he asked me to write a letter to myself that I opened last year. It meant so much to me, and I’m so grateful he helped me with that. It’s amazing to see how far I’ve come since 2014!
Some teachers change grades, but a rare few change lives. Joseph Serviss was one of those rare people. When I was struggling—failing classes, questioning myself, and watching my sports career slip away—he never gave up on me. He helped me see the true importance of life and school, not just as obligations, but as opportunities to grow. He was a mentor first, a friend second, and a teacher third, and he excelled in every single role without ever needing recognition. His belief in me came at a time when I had none for myself, and that belief carried me through it all. I will always be grateful for his guidance, his patience, and the impact he’s had on the person I’ve become.
Joseph Serviss is a colleague of mine. We worked at the same school for many years. He is someone I really admire as I watched him not only teach his curriculum, but teach students in a way that helped them process life and be better human beings. He would challenge them and keep high expectations and most importantly—he got to know them. He built relationships so that kids knew he was there for them-no matter what. He was a huge advocate for students and for change in a system that doesn’t always focus on qualitative data (when maybe it should). To know him is to know he cares. He is truly a life changer.
Mr. Serviss a really amazing teacher. I graduated high school four years ago and I still keep in contact with him. I know if I ever need something any type of advice I will be able to go to him. He truly does care for all his students and he is willing to help anybody.
So proud and well deserved!
Joe Serviss is the definition of a pillar in his community! He taught be almost 10 years ago and I still talk about how LIFE CHANGING his lessons were to this day. He still continues to fight the good fight and stand up for what really matters!
You have been an amazing teacher to my student this is what parents want from a teacher. We hope you win ! It is well deserved!
Mr. Serviss has truly impacted me in so many aspects. His kind words and motivation got me through my last few years of high school. Whenever I felt like wanting to give up he always reminded me of my potential and showed me how proud he was of me. I am so thankful to have had him twice. In my three years at Jay M Robinson he is the one teacher who has truly left a mark in my life and I cherish every piece of advice he’s given me everyday.
Mr. Serviss has taught my son, Ayden for multiple years now. His passion, care, thoughtfulness and genuineness are beyond sincere. His communication is thorough and my son has always spoke very highly of him. Not only does he give scholars school lessons for today, but valuable knowledge and jewels that they will be able to hold on to for a lifetime. Thanks so much for all that you do! This honor and award will be WELL DESERVED!
Mr. Serviss is one of the most deserving teachers of this award. He changed my life in so many ways. Whenever i was going through anything i could always count on him he would sit and listen and was always willing to help and find ways to make things better. Weather it be a breakup, family, personal, or life in general he always made u feel heard, valued, and loved. He puts his whole heart and dedication into the lives of the children he teaches. He impacts all the lives around him through his teaching and his involvement in all the sports. YOU CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON MR. SERVISS!! He gave me and so many others different outlooks on life and different ways to view the struggles and challenges we face.
If anyone deserves this award it’s Mr. Serviss. I never officially had Mr. Serviss as a teacher, I was introduced to him through fellow classmates whom he taught. From the minute I met Mr. Serviss he was always so full of love and wanted the best for everyone around him. I have one very prominent memory where I was having a really hard day. My boyfriend at the time and I were arguing, I had just gotten back a failing grade on a test, and I was overall overwhelmed. The person I chose to turn to in that moment was Mr. Serviss and he created an environment for me where I could calm down, recollect myself, and where I had reassurance that everything would be okay. In my darkest hours he was always there. There is no teacher more deserving of this award.
Mr. Serviss is an incredible teacher. He was one of the best teachers I’ve ever had, he cares about his students, his career, his kids and wife, he was with me when I graduated high school and he still has my support now!
