LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Scott Allen

Position: Principal
School: Monroe Elementary School
School District: Enid Public Schools
City, State: Enid, OK

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Music that Describes Scott

Scott Allen was nominated by his colleague and the parent of a student, Traci Conrady.

"Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream which, fulfilled, can be translated into benefit for everyone and greater strength for our nation," - John F. Kennedy

The quote above is found under the signature line of Mr. Allen’s school email. If education is indeed the means of developing our greatest abilities, Mr. Allen strives to encourage his staff and students to believe they are all, in his words, "destined for greatness."

Five years ago, Mr. Allen walked through the doors of Monroe Elementary with great hopes of transforming a school that was in need of support. Test scores were low and attendance was poor. His plans included strategies for serving a growing population of English language learners as well as providing support to students and families struggling in poverty, abuse, and trauma.

"Elementary schools are short on positive male role models. I closely watch the strength of character he exhibits while working with challenging students and situations," said Conrady. "On any given day, Mr. Allen makes hard, important decisions that can impact the lives of students and families in our community. His previous experience as a middle school teacher and coach serve him well."

The champion mindset is all about overcoming obstacles in one’s life with hard work, hope, and resiliency. The school's morning assembly opens with the words of this Carrie Underwood song, The Champion.

Mr. Allen calls out, “I am..." and students say:

Invincible, Unbreakable
Unstoppable, Unshakeable
They knock me down, I get up again
I am the CHAMPION!

Carrie Underwood herself made mention of Mr. Allen and Monroe on her social media on two different occasions. One was for the school wide sing along to her song, “The Champion” (which made national news), and the other for his successful efforts on a Champion Challenge. Both videos were viewed by thousands and supported by organizations and people throughout Oklahoma in 2018.

"Good leaders help develop and nurture rising stars," said Conrady. "As a fifth grade teacher, I see first hand how he encourages fifth graders to soar, serve, and speak."

Every morning, the fifth grade students lead our original school creed composed by Mr. Allen.

Today Monroe Family, I am honored to lead you
Remember that all through this day
We will conquer what has not been conquered
Defeat will not be in our vocabulary

Because…

(entire student body chants) We are Monroe!

We will never surrender to frustrations
Weakness will not be in our hearts
We look to our classmates and teachers that have taught us
And we will draw strength from them

Because...We are Monroe!

We will enter our classrooms like a field of battle
Determined to overcome and learn what is expected
No one or no circumstance will keep us from success

Because, We are Monroe!

We are destined for greatness
We refuse to be refused
We deny being denied of our hopes and dreams

Because...We are Monroe!

At the end of the assembly, students join together to dance. Students benefit from the physical fitness because it strengthens the mind/body connection and provides a creative and emotional outlet by easing tension. The music helps students process emotions on deeper levels. When students create positive memories or images with peers, it improves learning potential in the most powerful, dynamic ways. Dance as a group activity is a unique way for students to bond and work together. Creative movement provides students with opportunities to develop different skill sets and take risks in safe environments. It develops a greater sense of esteem that bolsters confidence in one’s ability. Dance is a celebration!

Mr. Allen also demonstrates a high level of professionalism within the greater learning community of teachers, support staff, and district. He has a servant leadership style where the attributes of love, service, and humor are used as tools to communicate various needs and responsibilities within the school. He provides support to teachers through PLC meetings (professional learning community), where he takes an active role in understanding and guiding instruction. The team identifies the needs of individuals and implements teaching and classroom management strategies that support student growth and well-being.

Mr. Allen creates an atmosphere needed for collaboration. He does this by listening to his staff members' ideas and challenges with consideration and compassion. He visits classrooms weekly, and he's great at enhancing the perception of his school through social media. This builds a rapport with families and the greater community. He paints Monroe in the most positive light! Currently, he is mentoring a young and talented assistant principal, Shea Pulis, who was named the 2018 Enid Public School’s Teacher of the Year. Together, they serve families, students, and staff. Their strengths complement one another, and Monroe benefits from having them both totally present and invested!

When it comes to humor, Mr. Allen goes above and beyond to make our students smile and laugh.

"My best memory is of our #whynot day," said Conrady. "Inspired by OKC Thunder MVP, Russell Westbrook, Mr. Allen declared a #whynot day with the theme, 'Why can’t you accomplish your goals and dreams? Why not?' The staff developed lessons around this idea. Fifth grade students created and submitted original works of art in the OKC Thunder Black Heritage Creative Contest, where three student works were featured in a promotional video. All classes decorated the hallways in bold Thunder colors to get ready for the big day. Students all assembled in the gym for the #whynot day assembly, and Mr. Allen had something up his sleeve. He arranged for Rumble the Bison, the OKC Thunder team mascot, to make a surprise appearance at our #whynot day assembly. Students loved the special surprise, and we all joined in on the fun!"

Rumble the Bison posted had this to say about the day:

February 21, 2019

“Had a great time at Monroe Elementary School in Enid today as we celebrated 'Why Not? Day' in an effort to show the students they can overcome any obstacles in their lives and achieve greatness!”

Mr. Allen's record of excellent performance exemplifies the highest ethical and professional standards. As a response to the teacher shortage in his state, the State Department of Education gathered a few select educators to present TED-style talks in hopes of inspiring others to become educators. Mr. Allen was the first administrator to participate in this initiative. This is the statement released by the Oklahoma State Department of Education:

"#EDTalk is a positive messaging campaign that was among the recommendations from State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister’s Teacher Shortage Task Force to spotlight the teaching profession and inspire others to become educators. Mr. Allen was one of the few educators in the state selected to record an #EDTalk. His video went live on social media Wednesday. In the video, he shares a story about a former Monroe student who visited his school some 60 years after she attended. The woman was carrying pictures of swastikas and Germany, yellowed clippings from the Enid News & Eagle, and other items telling her story of escaping a war-torn country. 'This story changed my life,' he said of what the woman told him. 'It certainly changed my mindset.' He said the woman told him how educators impacted her life and changed her life, and how she was able to achieve the American dream because of them. 'I realize there is something very patriotic in what we do in education. We are the gateway to the American dream. We really are,' Allen says in the video. 'No one is going to surpass their knowledge, wisdom and understanding and that all starts in your hallways.' The #EDTalks have a combined 100,000+ views on social media, the primary platform for sharing the segments."

His finest quality, however, is his ability to discern. Discernment is defined as, “the ability to judge well." Mr. Allen is a man of high moral standards. He is an active member of World Harvest Church in Enid, Oklahoma, where he exhibits a closeness with his church family. It is evident in the outpouring of support from his pastor and other church members in his role as principal. He has shared personal testimonies about love, loss, hope, and healing. He uses that powerful voice for good, wherever he goes. His compass points to a true north, a higher calling.

"Lions are symbolic of strength. I believe that being a LifeChanger requires strength, passion, and vision," said Conrady. "To encourage others through the message of 'destined for greatness' shows great hope for future generations."

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Comments (52)

Samantha Fox Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is a life changer!! I am a first year teacher and he has shown so much inspiration, kindness, and guidance. If you work for him you know you are part of a family! He loves all of our students with big love and compassion. He inspires these students every morning and it continues through the day. If anyone is worthy of the life changer award it is definitely this guy!!

Myah Ray hessel Posted over a year ago

Hey mr. Allen. I miss you very much and for what I have just read I almost cried cause I really miss you guys and the school. I have been there for basically my whole life and when it was time to go I was not ready, but you guys helped me conquer my fears and lead me to a great feature. The times when I would always go to your office and talk about my problems were the best because you would always inspire me and make me happy. And I will always remember that I am destined for greatness!!

Trilby Land Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is a true inspiration! I am a first-year teacher and I can’t explain how much he has helped me! The encouragement he gives his staff, as well as the students, are unmatched. He has a true passion for the kids at our school and provides a sense of compassion that is indescribable. He is truly a life changer!

Pamela Johns Posted over a year ago

I worked for Mr. Allen and in all the years working in education I have never encountered a man with such a passion for helping his students succeed. It was a pleasure to work for him.

Maddy Posted over a year ago

I am a first year teacher at Monroe. Mr. Allen has been so supportive, encouraging, and helpful during my first year. He is a great leader, who truly cares about his students and staff. He wants the best for every student. He goes above and beyond for our kids.

Mike Posted over a year ago

Scott you are a rock, you have absolutely shown everyone just how amazing a good Christian man can change the way a school and teachers and children look at themselves for the better, I way to be like you when I grow up. Keep it up bro.

Diana Vargas Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is pure inspiration and a kind heart, we are really lucky, proud and thankful to have him as principal in Monroe, he goes far and beyond to help everyone, as a parent I feel blessed when I see my daughter enjoying to go to school everyday excited to assist to the morning assembly, is awesome to experience this assemblies even help parents feel empowered with the energy that our principal and the kids create.

Myriah Jackson Posted over a year ago

My kids do not like to get up in the morning, but if they know they are going to miss the morning assembly with Mr Allen, they jump out out bed and hurry to get there. Principles are usually seen as the means ones that punish you for doing bad, but Mr Allen is a friend and a leader. He has been a tue blessing in the education process. Thank you for all you do!

Malori Shire Posted over a year ago

Me. Allen is truly amazing! Always there for all the kids and pushing them to do better.

Ginger Ferris Posted over a year ago

I have worked with Mr. Allen for seven years and he truly cares about his students and staff. He is a great leader, role model and is definitely deserving of this award!

Nancy Griffin Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen Is a amazing principal. When my husband was having brain stokes and past away. He was very caring and understanding. Mr. Allen told me to taken the time off I need and not to rush back. Mr. Allen Takes the time to listen. He looks for the very best in all Teachers and staff. Mr. Allen is amazing with the kids in our school. Mr. Allen works real hard keeping the Teacher informed on all new class updates. Mr. Allen strives to keep everyone in Monroe school protected at all times. Mr. Allen always has a positive attitude at all times. Mr. Allen goes all out for the kids to do there best and be an excellent role model. Would like to thank Mr. Allen from the bottom of my heart thru the worst time in my life.

Christina Bentley Posted over a year ago

I am very proud to be a Monroe Lion under the leadership of Mr. Allen. He is extremely dedicated to the children and ensuring they have a positive role model!

Kerri Rainey Posted over a year ago

Scott Allen is an amazing leader. He encourages students to believe in themselves and to rise above the challenges life will throw at them. He is one of the most compassionate and caring leaders to both staff and students. Scott has developed a vision for our Monroe Lions to build them up beyond the classroom and help them become the leaders of tomorrow. Through his leadership our students are building foundations in their work ethic, character, and in their desire to rise up and meet the challenges in and out of the classroom. I have been greatly blessed to work with Scott and it has been a joy to be a part of his vision for our students.

Stephanie Lewis Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is an encouraging leader. He cares about his staff and students. Thank you Mr. Allen for everything you do for our school. I enjoy coming to work every day!

Mike Dods Posted over a year ago

Scott is the most amazing principal and man I have ever met, he is a godly Man and a man of integrity

Traci Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is the best principal I've ever seen. He honestly cares about the students, and their futures, and it shows. He encourages them to be the best they can be every single day. Thank you, Mr. Allen, for being you.

Melissa Gibson Posted over a year ago

Mr.Allen does special days for us. He makes funny videos for us. It’s funny when he dresses up for the kids. I like dancing in the gym. -Josiah student @Monroe 8 yrs old You can tell when you enter the school Mr. Allen cares deeply for his students and staff. He is welcoming to all who enter the building. I’ll never forget our first day we walked in. We had transferred from out of state after losing our home from a hurricane. I was so impressed with the morning routine and felt good about leaving my babies there. My son has so much pride in his school and I really enjoy that. Thank you Mr. Allen for all that you do for the school.

Traci Fields Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is the best principal I have ever seen. You can tell he honestly cares about our children and their futures. He cheers them on every single day. Thank you, Mr. Allen, for being you.

Annie Sutherlin Posted over a year ago

I think Scott is the best principle Monroe has had since Mr. Avery. I have seen a lot of great changes since he has been the principal. I feel my daughter gets a high quality and fun grade school experience with him as the principal. He is fun and motivates the kids to do there best.

Diana Coast Posted over a year ago

I have known Scott Allen since he was a little boy. He is a wonderful young man with a heart made of gold. It is evident he puts his kids at school first trying to make a difference in all of their lives. Scott goes above and beyond changing the lives of everyone he meets. Congratulations Scott, you are a life changer for sure.

Jane Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is an outstanding leader and motivator for both students and faculty! His positive attitude and sense of humor make students enjoy school. Many former Monroe students, who now attend middle school, speak highly of him and the fun times. His costumes and enthusiasm put smiles on his teachers' faces, too.

Janice Posted over a year ago

Scott's passion for his students is very evident in all that he does. Watching videos and reading articles about the Amazing things he is doing at Monroe is just the tip of the iceberg. Seeing the love that his students and staff have for him is beyond words. He is truly worthy of this nomination.

Janci Wayman Posted over a year ago

Thank you for everything you do to care for and enrich the lives of our Enid children.

Aimee Posted over a year ago

What an amazing guy. Professional and passionate for the kids he is charged with overseeing. Definitely a source of strength within the school.

Paige becking Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen has a heart of gold and cares for the students and staff of his school so deeply. I am blessed to have started my teaching career under his principalship and strive to be as great of leader to my students as he is to his school family. He is truly a life changer for the students of Monroe!

Vanessa Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is an amazing principle. He carries himself in such a manner that shows he absolutely cares about his students. He goes above and beyond his duties. He is always involved in whatever his students are doing. I have never met a principle like Mr. Allen. All of my children have enjoyed having him as a principle. God bless him.

Linda Moore Posted over a year ago

Way to go Scott! You are a good supporter of students, teachers and your community. Thanks for all you do.

Rachel Woodard Posted over a year ago

I love being a faculty member under the leadership of our principal Mr. Scott Allen. He makes Monroe a great learning and also fun environment for our students. He is definitely deserving of this award.

Keith Holsten Posted over a year ago

Mr Allen, Thank you for all you do for the students day in...day out!! You always lead by example and empower your team of Educators and Staff to make a difference as you walk the sometimes long road right along with them. Thank You!!!

Ashley Bradley Posted over a year ago

Scott Allen is an amazing leader and principle. He not only tells the students they can achieve and overcome anything, he has lived it out through his actions. He reaches all of his students in the way they need and challenges them to be better versions of themselves. He is patient, kind and passionate. He is a life changer!!

Katie Gonzalez Posted over a year ago

Scott Allen is the hardest worker I know. He’s faced every obstacle with his head held high. He leads his staff into battle every day and is a true leader. He makes you a believer of his vision and his goals to create a positive and safe environment for each student that walks through the doors. He constantly pushes himself and his teachers to go above and beyond what they are expected to do because he cares! It was an absolute pleasure to work for him!

Kathy Beard Posted over a year ago

I’ve known Scott for many years and consider him a dear friend. The love he has for the children and coworkers is truly evident by his actions! It is evident as he goes above and beyond his position of employment!!! Truly believe he makes a life changing difference in the lives of many!!!

Christie Buckner Posted over a year ago

Well deserved! Scott always puts the kids first.

Amy Posted over a year ago

Scott is the true definition of a life changer. He is the most passionate, caring and inspirational person I know. He ignites a fire in his students because of the love and dedication that he shows them each and every day. To count the amount of lives he has changed, would be an impossible task. I have witnessed first hand the countless amount of students that has encouraged, lifted up, cheered on, and motivated. Lifting up his students and helping them see their potential is his passion. He is most deserving of this honor.

Cassey Boyer Posted over a year ago

Mr.Allen is an amazing guy inside and out i couldnt ask for a better person to lead my daughters at Monroe he goes above and beyond for his students!!!!

Jasmine Jones Posted over a year ago

I have 3 children who attend Monroe. One of them is autistic. Mr. Allen has brought about a courage in my children. Courage to show the uniqueness of who they are. Everyday he speaks life into them. My husband and I are grateful and truly blessed to have him leading our children.

Jennifer Gilbreath Posted over a year ago

Mr. Scott Allen goes above and beyond the call of duty at Monroe. He makes sure that our students know that they can achieve their hopes and dreams. That they can rise up from anything. He has brought in Mrs. Oklahoma that has dealt with her dyslexia. She came in to the school and explained how she has learned to work with her disability and has overcome obstacles in her way to achieve her dreams and is now going to college. Mr. Allen also had the students discuss what they wanted to be when they grew up, what they wanted to be. Then a few weeks later he brought in Rumble the Bison from Thunder basketball. At this assembly, it was discussed "Why Not" accomplish your hopes and dreams? He does everything he can to encourage the students and his staff everyday.

Rhonda K Stuart Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen is always hands-on with the students. He makes a point to make each one feel special and included in the Monroe family. As a staff member, I know with no uncertainty that he is in my corner. As a teacher and a mom, Mr. Allen has always made a point to allow me to put my family first. He knows if our families are not first, we can't do our jobs well. I appreciate everything he has done and is doing for Monroe students. He deserves this award.

Amanda Posted over a year ago

Scott Allen

Connie Hood Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen was my Assistant Principal for 1 yr., then my Principal for 2 years. Scott Allen is a forward thinker who is always looking for a different way to stretch students and faculty to realize their fullest potential. Give him a challenge & he'll overcome it un his own creative way. His faith & genuine love for all people ensure that he treats each person with the love of God. Mr. Allen encourages, empowers & gives others a vision of what "can be" in the future with hard work & a lot of love. Nothing gets him down & I am thankful to have worked with him & proud to call him my friend!

Kayleigh Posted over a year ago

Principal Scott Allen was my vice principal while I was in middle school in Piedmont! Hands down he was the best role model and teacher I could have ever asked for! Thank you Mr. Allen for everything you've done!

Mckenlee Foote Posted over a year ago

Mr.Allen (Scott Allen) has been a life changing educator. When I switched schools in 6th grade, he took the time to get to know me and my parents and show me around the school. He always made sure to say hi to me in the hallways and made sure I was settling into my new school well. Mr. Allen was a principal who knew his students and cared for them. He made me feel valued and seen. Always a smile on his face. Mr. Allen is an educator who changed my life and has a spacial place in my heart! I’m now graduated and almost through college, I still remember how kind and caring he was.

Laurie Morton Posted over a year ago

I love his love for the kiddos and how he makes school fun. He also loves the Lord and that is powerful in itself

Brenda Lee Posted over a year ago

My principal, Mr. Scott Allen, is a very supportive, compassionate, and respected leader in our school. His focus has always been on our students and building them up to believe in themselves and how we, the teachers, can work together to make a difference in their lives. He is willing to do many things to make this happen from dressing up in silly costumes to his lively inspiring morning assemblies. His leadership has brought many positive changes to our school.

Matthew Jones Posted over a year ago

All three of my kids go to Monroe and I get to see just how much Scott cares about all the kids... whether it's the positive things they hear, like they are champions, or the fun learning activities. It shows how dedicated he is to their education.. thank God for Scott.

Shea Pulis Posted over a year ago

I work closely with Mr. Allen and this is the truest depiction of how we all view him as a leader. He is truly deserving of all accolades because he changes the lives of children every single day.

Matthew Jones Posted over a year ago

Pam Seigel Posted over a year ago

Scott Allen loves his job and it shows everyday. He always has a kind word, smile or a moment to let his students know they are important and he is there if they need him.

Pat Powell Posted over a year ago

Mr. Allen strives to change the world one student at a time each and every day.

Teresa Allen Posted over a year ago

Wonderful,Scott! You ARE a “Life Changer”. The care and compassion that you show your students and teachers is all from your heart’s desire to make a difference in their lives. You are an exemplary role model and you give it all for your students and school!! Congratulations on your nomination!??

Macy Whiteaker Posted over a year ago

I’m blessed to have Mr. Allen as my boss! He goes above and beyond for our school!

Ryan Walters Posted over a year ago

Scott is an incredible individual. He brings such a passion to everything he does. He is truly an inspiration to everyone he comes in contact with. He is an incredible role model for school leaders to follow. His students are lives are improved by having him in their life.