LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Harmel Tatel

Position: Special Education Teacher
School: William E. Orr Middle School
School District: Clark County School District
City, State: Las Vegas, NV

Support Harmel Leave a comment Get Updates

Harmel Tatel was nominated by his friend, Chona Samson.

"Mr. Tatel is not only an outstanding educator, but a compassionate advocate who makes a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of his students, especially students with autism and other special needs. If I had to describe him in three words, I would choose compassionate, dedicated, and inspiring. He approaches every student with patience, understanding, and genuine care. He recognizes that every child is different and takes the time to understand each student's individual needs, strengths, challenges, and abilities," said Samson.

His classroom is more than a place of learning. It's a safe, nurturing environment where students feel valued, respected, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Mr. Tatel has a remarkable ability to connect with students who sometimes struggle to communicate, socialize, or succeed in a traditional classroom. Through his dedication and creativity, he helps his students develop academic, social, emotional, and life skills that can have an impact far beyond the classroom. He celebrates their progress, no matter how small, and encourages them to believe in themselves.

Mr. Tatel deserves this recognition because he helps create a positive atmosphere within his school. His compassion and professionalism extend beyond his classroom. He demonstrates leadership through his commitment to his students, collaboration with others, and willingness to advocate for children with special needs. He understands that educating students with disabilities requires patience, consistency, teamwork, and a deep belief in every child's potential.

He also demonstrates a high level of professionalism and ethical responsibility. He treats students and families with dignity and respect and works diligently to ensure that his students receive the support they need. His commitment shows in the effort he puts into his work each day and the relationships he builds with his students.

Most importantly, he does not simply teach his students. He empowers them. He helps them discover their abilities, gain confidence, and become more independent. For students with special needs, having an educator who truly believes in them can change the course of their lives. He is that kind of educator.

“Harmel Tatel is a true LifeChanger because he sees the person behind the disability. He sees possibilities where others may see limitations, and he consistently goes above and beyond to help his students succeed. His dedication, compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing environment make him an outstanding teacher and a tremendous asset to William E. Orr Middle School, the Clark County School District, and the Las Vegas community. He deserves to be recognized as a LifeChanger of the Year because his positive impact on his students is measured not only by grades or academic achievements. It’s measured by the confidence, independence, hope, and opportunities he helps them gain,” said Samson.

9 9 9 8 9

Comments (11)

Cris Posted 4 days ago

Mr Harrell Tatel have a good qualities of a true leader. He is an accommodating man that checks your work and sometimes your personal matters. You can also ask an advice about issues and concerns in life. Whatever his achievements in life that would define him as a man of honor.

Cris Posted 4 days ago

Nelson Posted 5 days ago

I have known Harmel Tatel for more than 15 years, and he has always been a visionary with a heart for making a difference. His many accomplishments are admirable, but what stands out the most is his unwavering commitment to students with special needs. Through his leadership, passion, and dedication, he continues to champion their potential and create opportunities for them to succeed. As a fellow educator, I deeply value the commitment it takes to make a lasting difference in students’ lives. Harmel embodies that commitment, and I wholeheartedly recommend him for this award. He is truly deserving of recognition as a life changer.

Arvin Manalac Posted 5 days ago

I am honored to express my support for Dr. Harmel Tatel, an outstanding Special Education teacher, colleague, and friend. Having worked with him in South Carolina, I had the opportunity to witness his dedication to teaching and his commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs. His passion for Special Education reflects his desire to help every student learn, grow, and reach their full potential. As a colleague, Dr. Tatel is dependable and professional, always demonstrating a strong commitment to his responsibilities as an educator. He understands the importance of providing individualized support and creating an inclusive learning environment where students feel valued. His experience and dedication make him a valuable member of any educational team. Beyond our professional relationship, I am grateful to know Dr. Tatel as a friend. Working alongside with him allowed me to appreciate not only his work as a teacher but also the person he is outside the classroom. I wholeheartedly support him and recognize the positive impact he makes on his students, colleagues, and the educational community.

Arvin Manalac Posted 6 days ago

I wholeheartedly support Dr. Harmel Tatel, an amazing Special Education teacher, dedicated colleague, and genuine friend. Having had the privilege of working with him, I can personally attest to his character, professionalism, and genuine commitment to education. He exemplifies what it means to be an educator who leads with compassion, patience, understanding, and dedication. As a person, he is kind, supportive, respectful, and always willing to lend a helping hand. As a teacher, he demonstrates a deep commitment to meeting the unique needs of his students, ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving success. His dedication, positive attitude, and willingness to work collaboratively make him an asset to any school community. Dr. Tatel is not only an exceptional educator but also a wonderful human being and a trusted colleague whose impact extends far beyond the classroom. Having worked alongside him, I have seen the qualities that make him truly deserving of recognition. He embodies the heart of teaching, the spirit of service, and the compassion that every educator should strive to demonstrate. I am proud to have worked with him and wholeheartedly stand in support of him.

Neri Posted 7 days ago

I have known Dr. Tatel for years, and I can confidently say that he is an amazing teacher who is considerate, passionate, and deeply committed to his work. He consistently demonstrates dedication and professionalism in everything he does. He genuinely cares about his students and goes above and beyond to ensure that they receive the support and guidance they need to succeed. Dr. Tatel is not only knowledgeable and skilled in his field but also patient, understanding, and approachable. He creates a positive learning environment where students feel valued, encouraged, and motivated to do their best. His passion for teaching, willingness to help others, and commitment to making a difference are qualities that truly set him apart. I highly regard Dr. Tatel as an educator and a professional. I believe that his dedication, integrity, and genuine concern for others make him an excellent teacher and a valuable asset to any educational institution. I wholeheartedly recommend him and am confident that he will continue to inspire, guide, and positively influence the lives of the students and colleagues he works with.

Jinah Luague Posted 8 days ago

Sir Don Tatel is a dedicated, responsible, and hardworking Special Education teacher. Way back we work together at Forest Hill Elementary School in South Carolina he always shows patience, kindness, and understanding toward his students, especially those with special needs. He takes his responsibilities seriously and makes sure that every student receives the support and guidance they need. Sir Don maintains a positive attitude and works well with his colleagues. What I admire most about Sir Tatel is how much he values his profession. He treats teaching not just as a job but as a commitment to making a difference in his students’ lives. He always gives his best, shows compassion, and respects the individual needs of every learner. His dedication and passion for teaching make him a great SPED educator and a positive role model for others.As a friend and colleague I always admire how he handle his students.

Aileene Nelson Posted 9 days ago

Sir Don is someone who embodies boundless optimism, especially when it comes to discovering and nurturing the hidden potential of students with special needs. The more challenging a student is, the more determined and inspired he becomes to uncover their unique strengths and abilities. He sees challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities to bring out the best in every student. His unwavering belief that every child has the potential to grow, learn, and succeed is truly inspiring.

Joey Cabrera Posted 9 days ago

I have had the privilege of knowing Dr. Tatel since 2015, during his time in Italy until 2019. I personally witnessed his remarkable dedication to education and the Filipino community. He pioneered the establishment of the first Philippine school and homeschooling program for Filipino immigrants in Italy, creating opportunities for students who dreamed of continuing their education despite the challenges of living abroad. Through his passion, leadership, and selfless commitment, Dr. Tatel has transformed the lives of countless Filipino students and families. He has not only provided education but also inspired hope, confidence, and a brighter future for many. His contributions to the Filipino community in Italy are truly admirable, and his legacy continues through the lives of those he has helped. Dr. Tatel is more than an educator—he is a visionary leader, a mentor, and an inspiration to the Filipino community.

Roldan Corpuz Posted 9 days ago

Dr. Tatel is an excellent educator. The students he is handling is very much pleased of having him. Keep it up.

Ylaya Palma Posted 9 days ago

I have known Mr. Tatel since 2019, when we worked in the same school district, Richland One, in Columbia, South Carolina. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he was entrusted with additional duties because of his strong work ethic, professionalism, and dedication. He was appointed chairman of the Special Education (SPED) Department, demonstrating the trust and confidence that the school administration placed in his leadership and abilities. He is highly respected and valued by the school administration for his outstanding contributions and commitment to his work.