LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Kris Henrickson was nominated by her principal, Rick Frens.

As part of the office team at Hamilton Middle School, Ms. Henrickson interacts with all students, staff, and many members of the community. She is a mentor, coach, teacher, cheerleader, advocate, friend, and mom to all students, and she makes a positive impact on the environment of Hamilton Middle School on a daily basis. During the school day, Ms. Henrickson takes care of students with injuries, adjust schedules, finds supplies, helps parents, assists with health and emotional issues, listens to students who need to be heard, and takes on every challenge with a smile. Outside of the school day, you'll find her in the bleachers cheering on students, or at a dance ensuring that the students are having a great time. Students recognize her by her name and her smile, and she knows all of them.

Ms. Henrickson is also a leader professionally. She is always learning new skills and developing ways to serve her students and staff. She is a great resource for the district when there are questions on how to handle scheduling, parent teacher conferences, open houses, or other school functions. Ms. Henrickson knows the ins and outs of running a building, and is always looking for ways to perfect her craft. She couples her great skill set with an unmatched work ethic.

"In a time of change and turbulence in education and in our world, Ms. Henrickson is our rock," Frens said. "Our students come to us from a variety of different of places and spaces, and Ms. Henrickson makes Hamilton Middle School their home. She is an integral and invaluable member of our team, but she doesn't seek the spotlight for her work. She has made an immeasurable positive impact on our kids and our community. Ms. Henrickson is a LifeChanger in every sense of the word, and it is my honor to nominate her for this award."