LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Michelle Vick was nominated by a parent of a student.

Mrs. Vick is an amazing teacher. She has the biggest heart for what she does. Anyone who meets her can attest to the warmth that she radiates. Mrs. Vick is exactly what you envision a first grade teacher being like; caring, kind, and someone who truly wants the best for her students. She consistently works hard to ensure her first graders are having as normal of a school year as possible, despite COVID-19 restrictions. Many of these children had either never been in a public school or had a very limited experience at the beginning of the year. Mrs. Vick welcomed them into her classroom and the school like they were members of her own family, easing any fears.

"I was very impressed by the fact that she has been providing afternoon snacks to her students in a safe manner. Initially, the snacks came out of her own pocket expense. She provided these snacks to her students knowing that their little bodies needed a little boost to help them through the rest of the day," said the parent.

Mrs. Vick, along with her colleague, Mrs. East, were able to provide the items necessary for the students to host a harvest party in their classrooms, also from their own expense.

"It's been so nice for these students to have some semblance of normalcy this year. It's been refreshing to have my student be excited for school, instead of dreading it. Mrs. Vick's class is truly his home away from home," said the parent.

Mrs. Vick has been laser-focused on her students developing better fine motor skills, especially after virtual learning last year. The methods she uses to teach her students about various subjects seem to stick with the kids.

"Just recently, my child made a number rack at school and has been so excited to tell me about numbers/math. Who knew making a craft would generate such excitement about a school subject! Mrs. Vick also taught them how to tell if a number is even or odd by using your fingers. My son was so excited to teach' me the method," said the parent. "There is more that could be said, but suffice to say, Mrs. Vick is a teacher who truly loves what she does, and it shows!"