LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Amelia Behney was nominated by a family member, Denise Alfonso. 

"I am honored to nominate Ms. Behney for the LifeChanger of the Year Award," said Alfonso.

Ms. Behney has dedicated her career to serving students within Miami-Dade County Public Schools, working in a variety of roles that demonstrate her passion, resilience, and commitment to education. She began her journey teaching in the Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities (EBD) program at South Miami Heights Elementary while simultaneously working toward her education degree. Teaching students with emotional and behavioral challenges requires exceptional patience and compassion, and Ms. Behney excelled in this role. Her students gravitated toward her because she understood their needs and successfully guided them academically, helping them progress to the next grade level.

After returning from maternity leave, Ms. Behney taught high school mathematics for a year before transitioning to Goulds Elementary, where she taught in the Pre-Kindergarten program. Both students and parents quickly recognized her dedication and warmth, making her a beloved teacher in the school community.

After two years in Pre-K, her principal recognized her talent and moved her to first grade, where she continued to make a positive impact. For the past five years, Ms. Behney has been teaching Kindergarten, where she continues to inspire and nurture young learners. During her time teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten, she also earned her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling, further strengthening her ability to support her students' social and emotional needs.

"Ms. Behney brings positive energy, compassion, and a genuine love for teaching into her classroom every day. She also contributes to her school community by participating in extracurricular activities and supporting school initiatives. She is truly an asset to Goulds Elementary School, and her impact on students, families, and colleagues is both meaningful and lasting. For these reasons, I strongly recommend Ms. Behney for the LifeChanger of the Year Award," said Alfonso.