LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jeff Parrott's nominator would like to remain anonymous.

Mr. Parrott has spent the last 25 years of his educational career with TCSD #1. In that time, he has been a teacher, a coach, and an administrator. Over the past four years, he has served his district as a school bus driver. Needless to say, because of his experience, passion, work ethic, and sense of humor, the Transportation Department has changed for the better in so many ways.

Mr. Parrott came to Transportation with a different, yet critical set of experiences and values. Having worked in school buildings and in classrooms, he brought a unique, much-needed skill-set to his department. In many ways, Mr. Parrott bridged the gap between his department and TCSD schools. He continues to help his department to excel and improve in numerous ways. 

With his district and educational background, Mr. Parrott helped his department align their protocols and practices with those of the schools, so drivers and students alike could be better served. Everything was implemented and improved because of his help, from student bus rules, to PBIS student management systems, to driver trainings.

Due to his commitment to excellence, Mr. Parrott always pushed the Transportation staff and drivers to excel. He was never OK with the status quo, and he always wanted to achieve excellence in his line of duty.

"Jeff would regularly come into my office with a random thought or 'idea'," said the nominator. "Many of these thoughts, suggestions, and questions led to drastic improvements in efficiencies, infrastructure, driver safety, driver training, and most importantly, student safety. Our department created an impressive Student/Parent Handbook, implemented PBIS driver training with a school principal, and improved communications and driver training thanks to Jeff’s leadership and influence."

Mr. Parrott was also extremely skilled with students. Having been a former teacher, coach, and dean of students, he brought a skill set to the transportation team that was second to none. He loved students and created long-lasting relationships with so many of them. He had the uncanny ability to be strict but relatable, a balance that's almost impossible to achieve. His students loved him, but they also listened! Many former students still admire and respect him greatly as a man, teacher, coach, and driver."

Additionally, Mr. Parrott's attitude, demeanor, and ability to build relationships are second to none. Students, staff, and parents simply love him. His personality is one that draws interest, respect, and humor from everyone almost automatically. He was the type of person who changed the dynamics, for the better, of every group he was a part of. Whether asking thoughtful discussion questions in a safety training or making a well-timed joke in the driver’s room, Mr. Parrott always seemed to know what to say in each moment.

"In addition to all of these incredible qualities, Jeff regularly volunteers for sporting events, works hard without being asked, and gets the defensive driving award (we’ll show you the video another time..)," said the nominator. "He is an absolute asset and will leave a huge hole when he leaves. He will be missed, but our department is very grateful for the time we have had with him. Our staff, students, district, and community are much better off because of Jeff’s legacy."