LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Austin Fay was nominated by a parent of a student, Kyrstyna Texeira. 

"I'm truly grateful for the chance to nominate Austin Fay. It's hard to put into words just how much she means to her students and families, but I'll try because she absolutely deserves to be recognized. My daughter has ADHD and is on an IEP, and school hasn't always been easy for her. But Austin has completely changed that experience. She has a natural ability to connect with her students and really understand what they need, both academically and emotionally. She meets them with patience, kindness, and encouragement, and because of that, my daughter feels safe, capable, and proud of herself in a way I hadn't seen in the school setting. She has made sure the school doesn't just push her under the rug and let her fall behind, and is always willing to send work that she sees her struggling with for extra help, truly going the extra mile for her kids," said Texeira. 

What stands out even more is Ms. Fay's inclusivity. She makes sure every single child feels seen and included, no matter their learning differences or personal situations. Her classroom feels like a community where kids look out for each other, and that doesn't happen by accident. It's because of the environment she creates every day.

Ms. Fay is also an incredible leader for her students. She doesn't talk down to them or dismiss their feelings; instead, she teaches them how to handle challenges, work through problems, and treat others with respect. She models the kind of behavior you hope kids will carry with them for life, and they listen because they genuinely respect her. 

"One thing that has really touched me is how much Ms. Fay cares beyond academics. She notices when kids need extra support and quietly steps in, whether that's making sure they have the supplies they need, extra help, or just someone who believes in them. That kind of compassion can't be taught; it comes from who she is as a person," said Texeira.

Ms. Fay also sets a strong example in doing the right thing. She holds her students to high standards while still being understanding, and consistently shows them what honesty, kindness, and responsibility look like in action. Ms. Fay also teaches them to accept responsibility at a personal level and to understand that they are just children and that mistakes happen, but they must learn from their actions.

"Austin has made a real, lasting difference in my daughter's life, and I know we are not the only family that feels this way. She is the kind of teacher every child deserves, and I can't think of anyone more worthy of this recognition," said Texeira.