LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Joel Sprazoff was nominated by a parent of a student, Chris Cox.

Coach Sprazoff is more than a teacher. He's the backbone of Corpus Christi Montessori School. As the only physical education teacher for grades 1–8, he serves every student by himself. There's no gym or real facilities, and everything is done outside on concrete, grass, and dirt, but you would never know it by the way he shows up for these kids. He builds programs, teams, and opportunities out of nothing.

"I've seen firsthand the kind of impact he has. He runs a fishing club at least twice a month at Cole Park Pier, teaching kids how to fish, respect the environment, and take pride in learning something new. He sometimes pays out of pocket for bait and supplies, so no kid is left out. He even coordinated with Buccaneer Cruises to get a group of students out on a deep-sea fishing trip, something most of these kids would never get the chance to experience. He also coaches girls' volleyball and both boys' and girls' basketball on his own," said Cox. 

Despite having no facilities, Coach Sprazoff's girls' volleyball team went undefeated and was recognized by the Nueces County Commissioners' Court. This success was due to his leadership, consistency, and belief in those kids.

"What people may not see is what he does for safety. There is no School Resource Officer on campus, even though the state strongly recommends it. Coach Sprazoff has stepped into that role as a point of contact, helping make sure our kids are safe. He created and coordinates a Watch D.O.G.S.–type program that brings fathers and father figures onto campus to volunteer," said Cox.

"I'm a disabled veteran, and because of what he built, I'm able to show up once a week to help by checking perimeters, being present on campus, and helping chaperone fishing trips. That matters to me, and it matters to these kids. He didn't just ask for help. He created a way for me to be involved, give back, and help protect and support the school. On top of everything else, he organizes fundraising and donation efforts to improve the campus and create better opportunities for students. He doesn't wait for resources. Instead, he finds a way," said Cox.

"Coach Joel doesn't just teach physical education. He builds character, creates opportunities, keeps kids safe, and brings a community together. I've served my country, and I know what strong leadership and service look like. What he does for these kids every single day is exactly that," said Cox.