LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Susan Barber was nominated by her daughter, Kristen Lintz.

Ms. Barber is the reason why Lintz became an educator. She is, by far, the best example of a kindhearted, loving, and passionate kindergarten teacher. Some may say Lintz is biased because Ms. Barber is her mom, but that is not the case.

"From the time I was a child to the time I graduated college, I have been hearing the same thing about my mom as a teacher, not only from other educators and students, but from parents of students as well," said Lintz. "On the first day of one of my college classes, my professor found out my mother was Susan Barber. He went on to explain, in front of the entire class, just what a joy it was to have worked with her in the past. I could really hear how sincere he was. I smiled from ear to ear! She has been an incredible role model for me." 

Lintz has fond memories of watching her mother dye macaroni, make homemade Play-Doh, and listen to her read books at bedtime. Ms. Barber wore wonderful holiday vests, t-shirts, matching earrings and holiday socks which always excited her students. She would make an Easter bunny cake every year, buy shoes for students that did not have their own and bring in hand-me-down clothing for students in need. She made home visits, sent home stuffed animals for students, and bought special toys at Christmas time.

Ms. Barber does everything in her power to make sure her students feel safe and loved, not only at school, but at home. She has taught for 29 years and has not stopped working as hard as she did from day one.

"I wanted to take this time to thank my mom for paving the way for me to be the best teacher I can be," Lintz said. "I know that all 520 students who were lucky enough to call her their teacher feel the same way I do."