LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Andy Runer's nominator would like to remain anonymous.

Year after year, Mr. Runer has always focused on creating well-rounded students.  He cares about each one of his students.  Behavior problems in class are never swept under the carpet.  He puts in the time it takes to solve any issues causing the student to struggle. Mr. Runer realizes it's hard to learn when you're worried about financial or family challenges.

"I have heard many stories and have seen the success of his students who have had rough home lives," said Mr. Runer's nominator. "Even though their home lives might be a challenge, they are still succeeding and know what it takes."

Another one of the many things Mr. Runer cares about is having students leave his classroom as more creative people. Jobs of the future are going to focus on creativity and imagination.  Mr. Runer realizes this and incorporates the arts into almost all of his lessons.  That doesn't mean it's just a quick drawing activity.  Mr. Runer takes the time to incorporate many different areas within the arts, whether it's writing a play, singing a song, or having the students move to a math problem.  

Mr. Runer's main goal is to have students love coming to school each day.  He constantly says school needs to not only be a safe environment for his students, but a fun, creative learning space.

Mr. Runer has been on the building leadership team and various committees throughout his years of teaching.  He always tries to convey a message of positivity, safety, hope, and perseverance.