Dennis Balch
Position: District Attendance Supervisor
School: Cocke County School System
School District: Cocke County School System
City, State: Newport, TN
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Dennis Balch was nominated by an anonymous colleague.
Mr. Balch definitely embodies the definition of a LifeChanger! He has worked for Cocke County School System since 1977 and has served in a variety of roles, from teacher and coach to Assistant Principal and District Attendance Supervisor. He understands that the first step to educating a child is getting them to school. Mr. Balch has gone out of his way over the years to make sure children attend school daily so the teachers can provide a quality education. He is patient, kind, professional, and morally and ethically sound. He meets and works with schools, parents, guardians, law enforcement, and human services departments to assure that truant/absent children are cared for first and foremost, then directed in the path needed to assure their attendance in school.
Mr. Balch wears many hats in his role and does so with professionalism and compassion. Although certain aspects of his job are clear and concise to others, it's the time he spends behind the scenes that makes him a LifeChanger. He spends a lot of time going to home visits and courts, verifying countless reports, making sure state and federal guidelines are met, and attending conferences to stay in compliance and educate himself on up-to-date practices. His job, though not a glamorous one, offers rewards when he sees a student who has had attendance issues walk across the stage to receive a diploma.
He works hard daily to reach every student who has attendance issues. He works to get school officials, faculty, and staff to offer incentives and encouragement so students can achieve their attendance requirements and goals. Mr. Balch strives to be fair, diligent, and open-minded without compromising professionalism. Rewards are given throughout the year to students with perfect attendance to encourage compliance.
Needless to say, sometimes a student falls through the cracks and is unreachable due to circumstances beyond their control. These losses are never easy for Mr. Balch, and he can recall times when it has been hard to continue, but he never complains. On several occasions, he has said, It's all about the child and their need." His faith and core values have allowed him to have a true compassion and concern for the students, his co-workers, and people he comes in contact with on a daily basis. He has an unwavering dedication to the students of Cocke County and their future. To say that he is "passionate" about his job is an understatement.
"You could speak to anyone in the district and they will tell you he is diligent and fair when it comes to his profession," said his nominator. "I truly feel that Mr. Dennis Balch is a LifeChanger! It would be such an honor to bring recognition and have him finally rewarded for his contribution throughout the years."
Dennis is my uncle (in-law)
He’s quite honestly one of the best men I know. He inquires about each person’s life, and is the first to encourage everyone in the family. He has a quiet strength, and is always ready to tell you how his faith and his relationship with God have shaped him. He’s a supportive husband, father, grandfather, and uncle in-law! He takes the time to do little things that mean so much to our family. When he found out that I was thinking about returning to nursing school, at the next family gathering he gave me a little Bible small enough to keep in scrubs. Those are the unseen things that Dennis does to change and impact lives. These are a few of the reasons why I believe he is so deserving of this award. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to let him know how much he means to our family.
I’ve had the pleasure to know Dennis Balch for over 40 years. He is one of the most genuine and best people I know. He truly cares about others and has made it his life work to help others whether it be through school, church, coaching, or just daily life. He is always there with a kind and wise word. When it comes to a “life changer”, I can think of no one that embodies this principle more than Dennis Balch. I am honored and fortunate to have him in my life and I know that your organization would be extremely proud having him represent it as winner of this award.
Jeff France
I can not think of a more deserving candidate for the LIFECHANGER of the Year award! I have known Mr. Dennis Balch for many years and he is always the same no matter where you see him. He genuinely cares about our children, their education and future. Dennis has positively impacted the lives of many people in our community, including myself. He Is an humble leader and puts God first in all that he does. We are grateful for Dennis, Ann and the boys. You all are family to us.
My dad is definitely a LifeChanger. He lives out his faith in everything that he does. He is the best role model a son can have. His dedication to God, family and work are balanced. He does not think of his occupation as a job. He believes it is his calling and that God has placed him in the different roles at the appropriate time. He could have retired years ago; however, he is committed to changing people's lives in his current role. He is a deacon in his local church and has a servant attitude. He much deserve this recognition and it is my pleasure to be called his son.
First of all I would like to thank Dennis for help showing me how your life can change so much for the better when you put God first in your life. He has been a great friend and brother in Christ for many years. We serve as Deacons at the same church. I think Dennis lives his job the same way he lives his life by putting God first in not only his life but his families life. Thank you Dennis for all you do for our students here in our county schools, because they are our future.
I have known Dennis for most of my life. He is a deacon of my church and a great man of God. He truly lives his life as God would have him too. Our community needs more men like Dennis. He works tirelessly for our church, community and God. When Dennis faces our Lord and Savior, I know He will say "Well done my good and faithful servant!"
First of all I would like to thank Dennis for help showing me how your life can change so much for the better when you put God first in your life. He has been a great friend and brother in Christ for many years. We serve as Deacons at the same church. I think Dennis lives his job the same way he lives his life by putting God first in not only his life but his families life. Thank you Dennis for all you do for our students here in our county schools, because they are our future.
Dennis is such a good christian man I have only known him and his wife Ann for a couple years or so but I can see how much people respect him with kindness. I go to the same church as he does I see how much the people think the world of him. My husband said he had him as a teacher when he was in school said was a great teacher, I'm so thankful I know Dennis as a friend.
He has been an inspiration to me. He’s a very fine lay speaker at church. He tries to make young boys to become men. He treats all children the same.
Huge congratulations on the nomination. Mr. Balch puts his whole heart into whatever he does. From teacher and coach, to principal and now administrator he has spent decades shaping the lives of students in one of the most underserved areas of the country. He is always willing to go the extra mile to make a positive impact in his students and his community.
He has been an inspiration to me. He’s a very fine lay speaker at church. He tries to make young boys to become men. He treats all children the same.
I love my uncle Dennis he taught me how to drive and picked me up and took me to school.
His life has been a blessing to so many people. His life reflects what a true Christian is.
Congratulations to my younger brother Dennis on his nomination for life changer of the year. I’m very proud of the example he shows in his everyday life to the young students and their parents. I’m thankful for the service he does for his church family and community.
I am not sure how many words are allowed for this post but there are probably not enough to describe the profound impact that Dennis Balch has had on his community. I have worked closely with Dennis for the the last 11.5 years as Director of Schools in Cocke County.Cocke County is a distressed county and our community has many needs. Dennis works very hard to to meet these needs in every way (physically, emotionally, and spiritually).He is truly one of the best men that I have ever known.He is a true servant leader. I cannot imagine anyone more deserving of this award and i am so thrilled that he has been nominated for LifeChanger of the Year!
I Dr. Btrown am doing the for James since he does not have a computer.
I James Suggs have been Dennis' pastor for 32 years and you will get to know a person in that length of time.
He is a faithful servant , a deacon, and a Sunday school teacher. He watches after the widows and orphans as well as helping with many of the other ministries of the church. He also does a lot for the needy in our church. H teaches special subjects in our church on Wednesday as well visiting the sick and hurting.He is faithful to the Gideon ministry in Cocke counity. He works as the attendance Supervisor for all of cocke county schools. A Faithful Prayer partner and willing to give time and talent and even money when needed. He has been a good exec. board member at Cave Hill Baptist Church. for several years.. Dennis serves as chairman of the grave yard committee of the church. He is the assistant moderator for the church and is the chairman for the deacons. He is always ready to go and do when needed. There is no way to count the number of people that Dennis has touched.
Congratulations Dennis!! I am so glad you got nominated for Life Changer of the Year. Dennis is so deserving of this honor. He has spent his life helping to give children and adults a chance for a better life. Through his life he has been involved in so many lives not only as a Teacher but as an Attendance Supervisor, Assistant Principal, Coach, Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Prison Ministeries I could go on and on about the lives he has changed through his faith and the Christian life he lives every day. He is always there for family and friends in their time if need. I can say this because he is my bother and I am so proud of him. He truly deserves to be called the Life Changer of The Year.
The best words to describe Dennis is "he's always there", no matter what the situation. He's always there for his family, his church, friends, and the children and parents of the community. He is such a role model for our children. This community is very blessed to have Dennis and his wife, Ann. They have helped so many people and touched so many lives. We are truly blessed to call them "true friends". Dennis has truly been a LifeChanger in our lives and many others. He is truly a Christian man and he cares about others.
Dennis Balch is one of the best persons we have ever known and is so deserving of this award . Such a fine caring Christian man and always so eager and one of the first to help when needed. We are always so happy to say that Dennis is a member of our family (Brother-in-law)
Dennis Balch is very deserving of this nomination. His generous, caring, and kind nature is evident in his daily mission to serve others. As a family member and former educator, I have always known him to be dedicated to helping others from his family to his community. Dennis eagerly helps when needed! He continually strives to be a positive role model in the education field and influence the lives of others. He is genuinely devoted to having a lifelong impact on the many children that he encounters daily. Dennis Balch truly deserves this honor!
I have known Dennis for 10 years. He is a member of the church where I am a member, and we are in the same prayer group that meets weekly. I have gotten to know several people in Newport that Dennis has tough in years gone by. They all speak well of him. He is well known for been a honest person and one who would do any thing to help someone. He has made an impression on most everyone here in Newport that you talk to. He does the job that he is doing, well and that has had a changing effect on all the people here. He puts out a big garden each summer and gives the produce away to people here in Newport. To me I would look no father then Dennis for the Life Changer of the Year. When you see Dennis any where you see the same person, not a different person. Thank you.
Dennis (coach Balch) was my science teacher in high school 30 years ago. He has also been my Sunday School teacher for 35 years. He’s been my mentor, big brother and friend for all these years. Great ambassador for Christ and servant of the church. Deserving of any and all honors that may come his way.
I have known Dennis all of his life. He truly exemplifies this award. He definetly leads by example. He is very deserving of this award and many more. I have coached him, coached with him, and taught with him for many years. His faith is evident in his daily life. Congratulations to a deserving man.
Coach Mike Proffitt
This is such a well-deserved honor. Mr. Balch has always cared deeply for others, particularly his students. His hard work through the years as a teacher and coach, assistant principal and now attendance supervisor has positively impacted so many lives. He is a a man of integrity and leads by example. Congratulations on the nomination.
This is such a well deserved honor for Mr. Balch. I have worked with Dennis for many years. From students and families to co-workers and acquaintances, he always treats others with respect and professionalism. Dennis exemplifies his faith everyday. He is a true servant as he goes above and beyond to help others.
Dennis Balch is an exceptional fine gentleman in our church who also serves as a deacon he never hesitates to help anyone in need, with all his good traits, characteristics, compassion, helpfulness and a wife that supports him in all the things does for our community ,church and school he is well deserving of this title and it is my honor to nominate him
This is such a well deserved nomination! It has been my privilege to get to know Dennis through our participation in state organizations. As I've gotten to know him, his leadership, wisdom, and selfless dedication to schools
have had such a positive impact on me and others. I'm proud to call him colleague and friend and wish him the very best with this nomination.
Upstanding Christian man with leadership qualities for him family, church, school and community
Dennis - you are my friend. For many years, you have been a friend to the students and faculty/staff in the Cocke County School System. You have served as a teacher, coach, mentor, administrator and supervisor. You have served well in those roles and you have been very conscientious. Thank you for being my friend for 58 years!
In all the years I have known you, I have always thought of you as a friend and a good guy. You are also conscientious!
You are one of the best! I was blessed to have you as my own high school teacher. Now I am blessed to work under you. God bless you and this is well deserved! Thank you for all you do!
Well deserved honor for you best of luck.
Congrats Dennis: A well deserved honor. Good Luck.
Congratulations! You do so much for the students, and deserve this award.
way to go on your success congrats
Way to go Dennis, you're an awesome person!!
He’s my twin brother who I think has tried to encourage all children in our community and surrounding areas to better themselves though education in their life’s. Please support him in this life changer of the year nomination.
Congratulations on your nomination MR. Balch you are deserving nominee God bless you.
Congratulations!! Dennis Balch is truly a deserving nominee!! Thank you for all that you do for all the students in Cocke Co School System!!
Mr. Balch is a man of integrity who truly cares about the success of the children and adults in Cocke County. He puts others first and leads with a servant heart. Mr. Balch has positively influenced countless lives, including my own, and is the epitome of a life changer!
Congratulations!! Dennis Balch is truly a deserving nominee!! Thank you for all that you do for all the students in Cocke Co School System!!
Dennis works very hard every day in a concerted effort to improve attendance in our county schools. He works with administrators, students, their families, the court system, community agencies, and the community as a whole to communicate the importance of attendance and the accountability that goes along with it for the schools. He has been working in our system for over 40 years and I obviously admire that and although he has done many great things in his job over the years, Dennis is an even better human being. There's not a whole lot of bad about Dennis that I have ever heard and I have worked for the school system for 26 years myself. I think Dennis deserves whatever recognition he can get and this nomination is a tribute to his dedication as an educator.
Congratulations Mr Balch on your nomination! Thank you for all you do for our schools! You are a good Godly man that cares deeply for the students of Cocke County!
I have had the privilege of working with Dennis for the past 11 years. He certainly is dedicated in his efforts to help the students in our school system. One can be assured any guidance that Mr. Balch offers as attendance supervisor is for the betterment of the student. I can attest to the fact that Dennis definitely strives to live his life everyday based upon the “Golden Rule”. He is a person of utmost integrity, and I am blessed to call him my friend.
Congratulations Mr. Balch! You are so very deserving of this award. Thank you for being such a blessing in and out of school.
Thank you Mr. Balch for your hard work, professionalism, care, and kindness.
Outstanding individual who puts others first!
Excellent choice for Life Changer of the Year.
As a 41 year teaching veteran in Cocke County, I have known Mr. Balch in his many roles as an educator, and I have NEVER seen him that he does not have a smile on his face and a kind word to say. His gentle, kind manner is a reflection of his heart as not only an educator, but a person whose mission is to help everyone he comes in contact with as he carries on his mission in life to serve others. His career has been rather a calling to help develop our greatest resource, our children. he has LITERALLY changed the lives of thousands of humans. What a blessing he has been, and will continue to be as he lives out his life as a beacon of light to the world.
Dennis thank you for being best role model a hall-mate could ever ask for. I am blessed to work across the hall from you. One of the things I love about you is that as you scroll through all the amazing comments about yourself you are giving all the credit to God.
You know when Dennis says “watch this” it’s going to be words of truth and wisdom. No matter how busy I get I know it’s always worth the time to listen to Dennis. He is very deserving of this nomination. He is focused, hardworking, positive, and devoted to each individual and family. He is a life changer.
Mr. Dennis Balch is one of the finest people that I have had the pleasure to know. He was, long ago, my drivers education teacher, the assistant principal where I was a teacher, and now our system's supervisor of attendance. I can think of no one more deserving of recognition. He is a Godly man who exhibits his faith through his deeds, and executes his job duties with character and best intent. Mr. Balch has, and continues, to touch countless lives in our county.
Super guy! A hard working man! Congratulations Mr. Balch.
Congratulations on this well deserved nomination Mr. Balch! Best wishes to you (:
Congratulations on being recognized for the difference you have made in the lives of those you serve.
Congratulations to Dennis Balch for being nominated as a LifeChanger of the Year! We are so grateful for his commitment to helping our Centerview kids succeed!
Mr. Balch was a great assistant principal when I was a student. He has been a great co-worker since I have been working for the school system. I have great respect for Mr. Balch. I appreciate what he stands for and his wonderful treatment of our students.
I have worked with Dennis Balch for 10 years at central office. He cares deeply for the students in our county and works hard every day. He has always been dedicated to the families and students in our county. He as implemented several things in our county to make families and students aware of how important education is in our lives. He is always willing to go that extra mile to make sure families and students know he cares and he is there for them. He is a joy to work along side. I also was able to have Dennis as a teacher in high school. As a student I felt his same caring nature as I do working with him as a colleague.
I have worked with Dennis Balch for four years but have known him for several more years. Mr Balch cares first about God and by doing that he has the love for all children. He puts one hundred percent into his work to make sure that all students are treated fairly and instills into families how important education is and how important their children are to our county. Mr Balch is definitely a life changer in everyone that he touches. I consider it a privilege to work with Mr Balch
I've been privileged to know Dennis in many different roles, as an administrator when I was a student, as a longtime friend of my family, and now, as a coworker. He has always attempted to be fair-minded and helpful. He's serious when he needs to be, but he also has an amazing sense of humor!
Congratulations Dennis!!! You deserve this nomination. It is an honor to work with him, but more importantly he is a good friend.
Mr. Balch interviewed me for my teaching position in Cocke County, giving me an opportunity to once again help students in Math and Life. He mentored me through his tenure as Assistant Principal and has continued to be a faithful friend. He has a wonderful attitude and caring heart. He truly cares about each and every person that comes into his life and always goes above and beyond to make sure their needs are met whether spiritually or physically. He truly is a "good man".
Dennis has always been very friendly and supportive. He is a very positive force in the Cocke County school system. I greatly appreciate his friendship. Best of luck, Dennis in your nomination.
Dennis Balch is very deserving of this award. He is a very good Christian man that truly cares about the students of Cocke County.
Congratulations to a most well deserving individual. Mr. Balch is an individual who is fair, consistent, and a professional that I am honored to know. He firmly stands on the principle that every student CAN achieve, but to do so they must be PRESENT - physically, academically, and spiritually. Thank you, and congratulations. We are proud of you.
Mr. Balch is an outstanding Citizen. He has helped so many individuals in the community, and you can tell he truly loves the County he lives in. Mr. Balch is a #1 Christian who believes the lord comes first. He is always been one of those persons who lends a helping hand when someone is in need. He is trualy a LifeChanger.
I have known Dennis Balch for several years. He is an astounding person who takes his job very seriously. Dennis has always wanted the students to succeed when they graduate. He is also a "Godly Man" who loves the Lord and you can tell the minute you have a conversation with him who comes first in his life. The Lord, His Family, Then his work. I truly feel he is a LifeChanger because of so many lives he has helped thru the years both in the education field and the community.
Dennis is a great christian man. He works 24/7 for the betterment of Cocke County's students and the community.
Mr. Balch truly defines excellence in the workplace and beyond. He is a great person and throughout his life he has produced many life changers through his work.
Dennis is a great person to know an to work with. He takes his job very seriously. Congratulations!!!!
Mr. Balch is a super-hero here in Cocke County. I have known him since 2003 when I became a NJROTC Instructor in Cocke County High School. His priority has always been about the students and positively impacting their lives, now and in the future. His firm but compassionate attitude toward their success is particularly noteworthy. His Core Values and uncompromising high standards of integrity guide his professionalism every day. It has been my honor to have worked with him throughout my eight-year tenure in the district.
High Praise to him and his lasting impact with young people here in Cocke County.
I have had the privilege of working with Dennis Balch for several years. He is such a great person who takes his job seriously. He is one of those individuals in the Education Field who wants to see students succeed in life. Dennis Balch is also a Christian man who puts his Faith above everything else. When you talk to him it is obvious that God is first in his life. So many times he and I have had conversations pertaining to the Bible. I feel it is a Great Honor to not only work with him, but also consider him a good friend.
I have had the extreme pleasure of having worked with Dennis for numerous years. I know how much he is deserving of this nomination. He is a most dedicated employee who is extremely knowledgeable of his job and one who cares deeply about the students and their education. He goes above and beyond in his job performance. He is a highly spiritual individual who does not waiver in his belief; I know personally that he lives his life for God. I am most honored to have him as a close and dear friend.
Congratulations on your nomination, Dennis. I have known Dennis for about ten years and worked with him on the TN Data and Attendance Supervisors Steering Committee and the East TN Attendance Supervisors Group. Any time I have a question whether it be attendance or data driven, I can count on Dennis to have an answer that is accurate, and also, even though not the most popular, always the solution that is in the best interest of the student. Dennis is a man of integrity and is well respected by all in our professional community.
Congratulations Dennis! You definitely deserve this nomination. I certainly appreciate the times you've been able to answer my questions in the past. Great job!!!
Dennis,
You are such a deserving man of great character and I have always admired your Christian attitude. Keep changing lives my friend. You are making a difference.
Congratulations!
He is my brother and has always cared about other people and helped them. I am so happy he has been recognized for his work and nominated for this award.
Congratulations to a good Christian man!
Dennis Balch is a young man that is deserving of this award. He volunteers his time to help children and his community. A favorite teacher among students, and other staff members. He’s an all around good guy.
Awesome man that cares about students and parents welfare inside and outside of their school setting. Way to go Mr. Balch!!
Congratulations my friend!!
Dennis has been a great friend of mine all my life. He helped my mom and dad all throughout their school years and mine also. He has been a great leader , supporter , helper, and friend. CONGRATULATIONS Dennis
You have earned it.
I have had the honor of working with Dennis for the past 15 years. He is a man of integrity-He treats everyone fairly and is always willingly to help with whatever problem is presented to him. His professionalism is unmatched. I am so fortunate to work with such a dedicated professional. Whole heartedly, he has earned and deserves this award!
Congratulations! No one is more deserving. You have touched so many lives throughout your career.
I have known Mr. Balch from a teacher, to a Coach, Assistant Principal, Attendance Supervisor, but most of all he is my brother in Christ. He stands on his faith and lives it every day. Congratulations Mr. Balch and Good Luck
This man has been a big part of my life from a very young age, see he's my uncle, i also had him in class in high school, i always admired the way he never made an exception for me, and of course i didn't like it then but now as i have a grandbaby myself, oh how i wished he was still teaching, which he does but its not at school. See when i was in high school, we prayed, said pledge of allegiance and then had class...now its wrong if we do this, but as for Dennis, he may not have done it where anyone could see it but you can bet if a child asked him to pray he would, that man is such a good man ....i remember telling my aunt that him and his wife make me want to be better...and if anyone deserves this Dennis Balch does....he hasn't only changed my life but there's so many other lives he's changed....he if so worthy of this....its unbelievable!!
Dennis has high standards, much compassion, and morals that every young person needs. He indeed is a life-changer
Congratulations Dennis! ?? Very big deal! It's always great to see some encouraging local news!
I have known you since I was a young girl. You have always been a positive role model in our community. I am so proud to now call you my coworker and friend. You work very hard at a job that is unnoticed by many. Thank you for supporting me in several aspects of my career! Cocke County is very blessed to have you and your family here.
Mr. Balch is definitely a life changer both academically and spiritually. He is an upstanding man of God and truly has the children of Cocke County in his heart. Good luck Dennis
Dennis always influenced my life when I hit high school. He always encouraged me to do the right thing stay out of trouble and work hard at what you do. Mr Balch always help others achieve there goals Glad he was my teacher and principal. He is well derserving of this award.
I am so humbled to learn my husband has been nominated. I can truly say that he sincerely cares for children and especially their need to get an education. Growing up in a family of 11 and losing his father at age nine, he knows what obstacles some children face. At an early age, he had a desire to teach and work with young people. He gives God the credit for his education. He works diligently to find ways to help children stay in school because he knows how important an education is. He has always told our sons that an education is a “gift” that no one can take away from you. I can truthfully say he is a godly man and he “walks the talk” of a Christian and NO is not perfect but has a “Jesus” kind of love for helping others.
Congratulations, good luck. A well deserved honor.
Congratulations Dennis! A well deserved recognition!
Congratulations Dennis on your nomination. I cant think of anyone more deserving than you for all your hard work and dedication to the students of our county. Best of luck.
So thankful that you have spent so many years caring about the children of this county. Who knows how many lives you have touched for the better!
Congratulations and good luck!
Way to go Dennis. Finally some recognition for all your tears of happiness d work. Congratulations
As a staff member of the Tennessee State Department of Education, I have worked with Mr. Dennis Balch for fourteen years. Mr. Balch is the definition of a complete and dedicated educator. I have not met any one in my thirty-four years with the department throughout the State of Tennessee or in other states in my travels that is more caring about the students he serves or the individuals that work with him.
I worked beside Mr. Balch for many years on the Attendance Steering Committee. He was knowledgeable, a leader with important ideas that he knew would make a difference in the life's of students across the State, considerate of others, the first to volunteer, and the first to be on the job to serve others.
Mr. Balch is the first person that I call at least once a week to discuss questions and important issues that I need an answer that will influence the attendance policies in the state of Tennessee.
As great of an educator that Mr. Balch has become, he is even a greater person. I have never met anyone that cares more about others than him. His Christian values and his prayers for myself and so many individuals that he has met or not met has changed the life's of these individuals.
Mr. Dennis Balch's faith is the definition of a true LifeChanger.
