LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Steven Anderson was nominated by his colleague, Jeanette Westfall.

Mr. Anderson made all the difference in Liberty Public Schools as students returned to learn during these unprecedented times. From the moment it was decided in June to ensure classrooms and schools were going to be ready for students to return to school, Mr. Anderson dedicated the entirety of his position to support the Superintendent in providing the safest level of learning possible for students wanting and needing to attend school in-person. 

Liberty Public Schools spent the bulk of the summer working with stakeholders to determine the best path of returning to school during a time when everything was unknown.  Mr. Anderson worked tirelessly with the Superintendent, Dr. Jeremy Tucker, networking with state, county, and national organizations to determine the best path for bringing students back to the buildings after the long hiatus of virtual school from March through June. He has guided the process with a determined mindset to offer the best learning options possible for students, from hiring an interim COVID-19 director to navigate and manage individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, to creating and implementing a process for close contact, data sharing, and setting up a testing site within the district.

"During a time when so many other districts find themselves in need of adjusting their plans to remain virtual or close for limited times, the planning and implementation of our Return to Learn plan has kept our students able to learn in person - and safely," said Westfall. "For this, our parents and teachers are grateful. While Liberty has been impacted by the gripping concerns around rising cases and changing guidelines, it is through Mr. Anderson's valued teamwork, leadership, and strong partnerships that we can navigate these very difficult times with a mindset of hope and care."

Without question, Chief Anderson adheres to the highest moral and ethical standards.  His partnerships and networking with the local health departments, local city leadership, and district leadership team through so many difficult decisions show his character to be as solid as they come.  This can be said about the entirety of the leadership in Liberty Public Schools, and Mr. Anderson brings that to light. He is the hub of action for all things that revolve around the Return to Learn Plan. 

"Chief Anderson remarks often when we talk about teaching and learning issues that he does not have the background in academics and PK-12 education that many of us hold in our district," said Westfall. "As educators, however, we would all wholeheartedly share that his understanding and expertise in managing operations for our school district has allowed Liberty Public Schools to thrive during a time when many other districts struggle.  In his humility, Mr. Anderson would never claim to be any more of an impetus for the success Liberty Public Schools has seen during COVID learning. He truly is a servant leader - yet it is certain that his insights, guidance, and leadership have been instrumental in the caring, forward-thinking position we are blessed to maintain for our children to learn each week."