LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Phil Scriver

Position: Sixth Grade Teacher
School: Truman Public Schools
School District: Truman Public Schools
City, State: Truman, MN

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Music that Describes Phil


Phil Scriver was nominated by his colleague, Melissa Williams.

Mr. Scriver has been teaching for a number of years. He only came to Truman last year, at the height of COVID-19 spread. His first year at Truman was quite a whirlwind of events. You see, he not only had to teach from his home due to COVID, not knowing any of his students at all, but he was also receiving chemotherapy for a brain tumor.

Mr. Scriver proved, without a reasonable doubt, that one can do anything. His proven ability to just get up each day, get students to sign in and turn in assignments on time, and handle a classroom with only a para at his desk, was truly amazing. 

His commitment to positive, nurturing behavior while being home was an inspired, daily thing on his part. No answer is incorrect. If you raised your hand or gave an attempt to answer a question, Mr. Scriver only gave positive feedback. This made students feel more comfortable to answer any question in his classroom.

Mr. Scriver allows kids to take a break and come back on their own in a certain amount of time, which gives them a chance to prove they are mature. If unruly behavior happens, however, he handles it in a quiet manner without disrupting the class. It also prevents the student from feeling like they're being "put on the spot."

"He is back this year, and I have the honor of working in his classroom as a special education para," said Williams. "His ability to work with kids of all spectrums of learning, as well as his ability to pair kids who learn easily with ones who struggle, are so wonderful to see. You have less teasing and taunting, both in and outside of the classroom."

Finally, Mr. Scriver goes out of his way while teaching to find places for kids to go on field trips to learn more about the topic he's teaching. For example, his kids have learned "hands-on" at a museum, what Native Americans made, and what kinds of clothing people used to wear. The best compliments on a field trip are from observers watching him talk to his students, who behave so well. They would say how wonderful it was to see such well-behaved kids. He expects excellent behavior to earn these field trips.

"Thank you, Mr. Scriver for bringing such great and passionate teaching to your students. Your ability to come to school each day, regardless of the pain you might be feeling that day, only inspires those around to work just as hard. It's an honor working with you," said Williams.

Comments (118)

Leah Bilitz Posted over a year ago

Phil is a thoughtful and kind person who cares about and works to improve any community he is part of. I moved to China after Phil and his family had already been a established there for a number of years, and he opened his doors to me, introduced me to his friends, family members, and colleagues, and helped me if I ever had difficulty adjusting to a new way of life. His generosity and help were lifechangers to me. Phil certainly has my vote!

Pastor Ray Kimbrough Posted over a year ago

Phil taught at St. Philip’s Lutheran School and was an excellent teacher and Christian role model for our scholars and their families.Phil is an example of what a Christian should be, someone who puts their trust and confidence in God alone. Phil has our vote.

Kelly Schauland Posted over a year ago

Phil is an inspiration to so many! We appreciate all the time he puts into coaching. Our son has learned so much from him. Most of all, we appreciate the way Phil lives for Jesus. He definitely has our vote!

Shiyi Quan Posted over a year ago

This is actually a message from China. Phil used to teach in China with me. He was one of the builder of our school. He had taught me and other new teachers so much skills during the years he was here. He also hosts parenting studies at his home by then. He understands that the core of education is actually at home. He and his family worked really hard to influence many Chinese kids' life by teaching their parents. He was not only a great teacher, but also a great leader, husband and father. Even today, we still have many families here who really appreciate him and his family! Miss his family a lot !

Nick Marshall Posted over a year ago

Easy choice, Phil all the way!!

Jacob Beilke Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great friend and co-worker I have had the privilege of serving/teaching with him in the past and he is an excellent example of a servant leader. His care and concern for fellow colleagues and students is inspiring. I am thankful for being able to learn from him and with him. He definitely has earned the title of lifechanger!

Melissa Williams Posted over a year ago

It's been a great year & a real pleasure to see how kids are having fun in learning in your class! So many "light bulb" moments in one classroom. That's because of you. Taking your time to reach all levels of learning! You Rock!

Rob Guenther Posted over a year ago

Phil has my vote! Praying for you, brother!

Katie H Posted over a year ago

Phil is such an inspiration! So deserving of this honor!

Liz Altmann Posted over a year ago

Hope Mr. Scriver receives this award!

Denise Karstens Posted over a year ago

Praying Phil wins!

Emily Marshall Posted over a year ago

My brother has my vote! :) Pick Phil!!

Marc Tye Posted over a year ago

Phil is always positive and never has a harsh word to say about anyone. A great dad and role model!!

Hayley Posted over a year ago

Phil is caring and hard working and shows love for all his students.

Hayley Moldenhauer Posted over a year ago

I taught with Phil for a few years at St. Philip's Lutheran School, an inner city school in Milwaukee, WI. Phil was caring and hard working and showed love for all his students.

Gideon Posted over a year ago

Phil definitely knows how to help students grow as a whole person. Way to go, Phil!

Michele Paul Posted over a year ago

I worked with Phil in Colorado. He was a great principal, a great teacher and he became a great friend. I loved how he interacted with the kids in every grade level. He is a great role model for both kids and adults. I am blessed to call him a friend and I would work with him again.

Tammy Posted over a year ago

Phil is a very easy going guy that you just feel comfortable talking to. He’s a great dad and hubby and I’m sure that carries over to his profession!

Jessica Posted over a year ago

I've always been inspired by Phil. He shows that he loves and cares for his students, their families, AND his fellow teachers.

Katie S. Posted over a year ago

I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award!

Jen Mueller Posted over a year ago

Phil's got my vote!

Becky Birkholz Posted over a year ago

Phil is a huge blessing as a teacher, coworker and dad. He’s a great example for those around him!

Melissa Gieseke Posted over a year ago

Phil is an inspirational teacher, husband and father! His resilience and dedication to his students is amazing!

Bryan Posted over a year ago

Phillip is an unbelievable father, educator, brother, and friend. He has a tender heart for all of the students he gets to teach. With everything he has gone through, he has always maintained a positive attitude and his love for teaching.

Kimberly Young Posted over a year ago

Go Phil!!

Heather Haala Posted over a year ago

Phil is great guy and a very good husband and dad to my friend Danielle and their 4 boys. I can’t help but think he’s a great teacher too! Go Phil!!

Cassie Scriver Posted over a year ago

Go Phil!

Marilyn Borns Posted over a year ago

Phil sets a great example in all aspects of life, strong faith in our Lord, great family man and teacher. He still strives to do his best even though many health obstacles have presented themselves. He certainly has our vote!

Lisa Posted over a year ago

We have known Phil for a long time. My husband taught him at Martin Luther College then prepared him for teaching in China. Phil is an excellent teacher with great administrative skills. He is compassionate with his students and a fine Christian man.

Melanie Posted over a year ago

Phil is an inspiration to all those he comes into contact with, and his dedication to his students is second to none.

Jessica Schmidt Posted over a year ago

Vote for Mr. Scriver. Not only is he q wonderful teacher he is a very patient and knowledgeable basketball coach. He gives of his time freely to others that benefit from their time knowing him.

Peter Trapp Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great friend and a positive influence on those around him! Love you brother!

Hannah Scharf Posted over a year ago

We are blessed to have Phil in our lives as a coach for our son’s basketball team! Phil’s dedication to the team is unparalleled. This year he suffered a serious health issue during the school day and one of the first things he had his wife do,( on her way to the hospital!)was call someone to cover their scheduled practice for that evening. He is kind but competitive, patient but driven, caring but tough when he needs to be. Our son has learned so much- not just about basketball but about leading a godly life and We thank God for that!

Andrea Li Posted over a year ago

Phil had a significant impact on the students and the staff as the school principal back then in Beijing. I also learned a lot from him as a staff. We still miss him as our principal.

Penny Posted over a year ago

I have followed Phil's journey and have come to admire his all-out dedication to his faith, family, and work community. Lives are so positively impacted by this man after God's own heart. My vote is for Phil!

Beth Posted over a year ago

Phil: A Haiku give Phil this award he leads with grace and wisdom and is a great friend

Joeleen Posted over a year ago

An inspiration to many!

Megan Gurgel Posted over a year ago

Phil is an awesome teacher to work with and learn from!

Jamie S Posted over a year ago

I don’t know Phil as a teacher in the traditional sense. But I have had the privilege of watching him as a “teacher” to his boys. The love and warmth and commitment he shows towards his boys is generation changing. He’s raising these boys to live their best lives despite the most extreme of life’s challenges. Showing them what it means to live your faith out loud and embrace the people around you. I can only imagine that the way he blesses his own boys automatically transfers to the children in his classroom. In a time when teaching has never been more challenging; in a time where just living has never been more challenging, Phil surpasses all expectations and is showing and teaching what it means to live with grit and grace.

Pam Christman Posted over a year ago

I vote for Phil

Matt Langebartels Posted over a year ago

Phil is a hard worker and great teacher

Jennifer Posted over a year ago

We are lucky to have Phil on our team. He is an excellent educator!

Lisa M Posted over a year ago

My vote is for Phil!

Jessica M Posted over a year ago

Phil is a fantastic teacher!

Andrew Zimdars Posted over a year ago

I'm not sure anyone deserves this award more than Phil. Phil has been a dedicated educator long before now, but the past couple of years have truly shown what Phil is about. Phil has a servant's heart, doing so with the attitude of someone who is blessed beyond measure regardless of the circumstances life has thrown at him.

Andrew Zimdars Posted over a year ago

I'm not sure anyone deserves this award more than Phil. Phil has been a dedicated educator long before now, but the past couple of years have truly shown what Phil is about. Phil has a servant's heart, doing so with the attitude of someone who is blessed beyond measure regardless of the circumstances life has thrown at him.

Patti Posted over a year ago

Phil is a thoughtful, caring person who has a true gift for teaching and leading.

TJ Smith Posted over a year ago

I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Phil for one year when he was the Mission Advancement Director here at MVL. Phil possesses a true servant's heart and I could tell that the "classroom" was still calling him as he missed that interaction with the students. If Phil the teacher is as passionate and caring as he was in the role here, I have little doubt that he will have a positive impact on each and every student that is fortunate enough to have him as their teacher. I cannot think of a more deserving individual of this award.

Tiffany Riesgraf Posted over a year ago

Phil is such as inspiration and role model. My son is currently on a basketball team that Phil is coaching. Phil is so patient and compassionate with these boys. I feel so blessed that he can be a part of my son's life. He is well deserving of this honor.

Sam Scriver Posted over a year ago

Phil’s ability to relate to others and use his strong faith to spread the word is incredible!!! Let’s go Phil!

Evans (and Olson!) Family Posted over a year ago

Phil consistently balances hard work, dedication, focus and fun! What a blessing to have him in any classroom or basketball court! :)

Nick Novotny Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great educator and a man with incredible character and dedication.

Savannah Posted over a year ago

My vote is for Phil!! Your such a positive role model. Your a great asset to our school!!!

Kim Posted over a year ago

Let’s go!

Clarisssa Posted over a year ago

Yes! Hope you win!!

Wendy Posted over a year ago

It is an honor to be a colleague of Mr. Scrivers! He is an outstanding educator. He is organized and patient, bringing a plethora of information to his 6th grader learners. He respects them and in return, they respect him. He is kind and considerate. His Faith Is his stronghold. I couldn’t think of a more deserving educator for this award.

Kristin Posted over a year ago

Way to go Phil! Much deserved recognition and very much deserving of this award!

Cairne Posted over a year ago

You are an inspiration to others. Keep up the great job teaching students.

Lisa Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great teacher! Not only does he care for his students but also the staff and parents he gets the privilege to work with. He can get along with anyone, just like his dad and grandfather who are both educators. Love you Phil!

Grandpa & Grandma Scriver Posted over a year ago

We are very proud of our grandchild Phil!

Marie Kramer Posted over a year ago

Phil is an amazing gentleman with a strong Christian background. He has patience, kindness, and a love for children. He’s a great example for his four boys and everyone he comes in contact with.

Mitch Posted over a year ago

What a blessing Phil Scriver is to so many people.

Emily Mullenbach Posted over a year ago

Phil Scriver is an absolute gift to have in school and in the community!

Dustin Uhlenbrauck Posted over a year ago

Let’s Go Phil!!

Yolonda Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great educator and a very positive role model!! We are lucky to have here at our school! My vote is for Phil!!

Adam&Linda Cheng Posted over a year ago

It has been a great blessing to serve together with Phil for about two years. Phil has always been an amazing leader, a loyal friend and a positive role model. We really appreciate what he had achieved and the way he had served in Beijing.

Amanda Boots Posted over a year ago

Mr.Scriver is a wonderful teacher who took time with my kiddo Timothy who has autism and willing to get to know Timmy.My son really thinks highly of Mr.Scriver while he was in his class and Mr.Scriver always made sure my son was safe and not being bullied by watching for him in hallways and going that extra mile to make sure he is ok..With a the stuff he is dealing with in his private life he makes sure he is a concerned and caring teacher. He is loved in our school..and works hard to teach the kids.So he very much deserves this!

Amy Detloff Posted over a year ago

Mr. Scriver brings out the best in his students. He is patient and promotes positivity and respect in the classroom. I know the kids have so enjoyed the field trips and outings that would not have been possible without Mr. Scriver!

Debbie Neitzke Posted over a year ago

You are truly a POSITIVE LIFECHANGER! Thank you for your commitment to our students and school.

Laurie Wille Posted over a year ago

Mr. Scriver is very patient with the students at our school. Instead of raising his voice, he speaks quietly to a student who isn't engaged in the learning. This keeps the whole classroom quieter and gives all of the students the ability to pay attention. The students are lucky to have him as their teacher!

Eric Zhang Posted over a year ago

I know Phil from his time in China. He was a great asset to the school he taught at in Beijing.

Charlotte Edwards Posted over a year ago

I can't think of a better person to be nominated, and hopefully win, this award! Phil has had the unique opportunity to teach in a variety of settings, including in Beijing, China. I had a few chances to get to know him and his family during this time. He is well-respected and liked by his colleagues, students, and their parents. I wish him and his family all the best!

Allison Posted over a year ago

My son is in Mr Scriver's class and he would describe Mr Scriver as kind, fun, and informative. He pushes the students everyday to be the best they can be and doesn't believe in settling for less then what they can truly accomplish.

Lori Little Posted over a year ago

We vote for Phil!!?

Jennifer Moskopf Posted over a year ago

God’s blessIngs!

Gretchen Posted over a year ago

Phil is a servant leader who reflects the love of Jesus to everyone in his path!

Trisha Jansick Posted over a year ago

Phil is an inspiration to all those around him. His perseverance and positive attitude are qualities children and adults alike are fortunate to have as an example. Even with ongoing health issues, Phil’s commitment to being a leader and role model is a top priority - whether in the classroom, on the basketball court coaching, or just in passing. Phil constantly puts others before himself. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this award!!!!

The Schapekahm Family Posted over a year ago

Phil is a wonderful light for Jesus in all that he does!

Teri Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great educator, leader and teammate. He reflects God's love in his work and life. He encourages and inpires so many.

Laurie Hill Posted over a year ago

Just amazing Phil!!

Joyce Posted over a year ago

Phil is a man of strong faith and indomitable courage.

Karissa Tye Posted over a year ago

Phil-you are truly an inspiration on so many levels. Your care and compassion for your family, friends, students, and peers is one of a kind. Your faith in your Lord is also apparent in all aspects of your life. Also-all this while going through the difficulties of having an illness with so many complications and unknowns. I’m honored to have you as a part of my family. Love you!

Joanne Colasacco Posted over a year ago

Wonderful Christian son, grandson, husband, father, brother, friend.

Laura Miller Posted over a year ago

Hoping Phil wins this well-deserved award!

Suzanne Moldan Posted over a year ago

Phil is my grandson’s basketball coach, he’s a great coach!

Stacy Doering Posted over a year ago

Phil is a great educator and my my child it isn't in the classroom as he isn't at the school, however it is on the basketball floor where he has had the privilege of playing for Phil. He pours encouragement and positive discipline to these kids so they learn their mistakes and focus on how to improve the next time. He is patient and inspiring. Thanks Phil for teaching my Son to give his best to God's glory.

Karla Kent Posted over a year ago

I have known Phil Scriver for over 15 years. Although I haven't seen him in a classroom setting, I have seen him as a husband, father, and family member. Anyone that has had a student in Phil's class can consider themselves blessed. You won't find a better example of a human being than Phil Scriver. He and his wife Danielle have 4 sons that are 4 of the best kids I have ever met in my life. That doesn't happen by chance. These kids have a Christian father who has led by example throughout their lives, and it is evident in their behavior. His love for God, his family and life shows in his every day living. Phil has been battling health issues, and you would never know it. He maintains a positive attitude, and puts his best foot forward every single day. In my opinion there is no one more deserving than Phil Scriver!

Tony Rekeweg Posted over a year ago

I had the opportunity to teach English at the same school as Mr. Scriver in China. He loved his students and made learning fun for them. It's not always easy to connect with students from other countries, but Mr. Scriver not only easily connected with his Chinese students, but also established lasting relationships with many of the student's parents.

Mary Posted over a year ago

This man is truly about faith, family, honor, truth and he brings out the best in others by just being himself. He is one of those guys you approach in hopes to build up his spirits but you find before the conversation is over that he built up your spirits. He is a genuine authentic and inspiring individual that through adversity continues to stay the course and put others before himself. Never will you get a "why me" it will always be a "why not me" attitude. His commitment to his family, friends and people that come in contact with him will be forever changed because of the selfless life choices this man has made. Phil will never know the full impact he has, and it will be immeasurable and far reaching. Thank you Phil for who you are, but mostly for what we are becoming because of you.

Bruce Kent Posted over a year ago

I couldn't think of a more deserving nomination. I know Phil as my niece's husband and not as a teacher. I do get to experience how Phil parents each of his four boys. My wife and I compliment Phil and Danielle for the wonderful job they do in raising such outstanding young men!! If Phil's parenting skills translate to him as a teacher (which I'm sure it does) I can see how he would be an amazing teacher!!! We have also observed and helped out a bit as Phil has been going through his battle with cancer. He handles this battle with such grace and strength!! I am so proud of him and believe he would be an excellent choice for the LIFE CHANGER of the YEAR award!!!

Katie Greefkes Posted over a year ago

My husband and I have known Phil since college. He is an excellent teacher, father, and husband to one of my very best friends. He handles adversity with poise and strength while letting his Christian faith shine. We admire and love Phil and his family with all of our hearts!

Pam Christman Posted over a year ago

Such a God fearing man.

Hongmei Cui Posted over a year ago

Our son was Phil's pupil years ago when he was the principal of Rising Eagles school in Beijing. Along with other teachers from Wisconsin, Phil brought so much blessing to the kids. The parents are thankful to have Phil here, and I am one of them.

Wen Liu Posted over a year ago

My son Lancelot studied in the Rising Eagles school in Beijing years ago, when Phil Scriver was the principal. Phil changed lives of many Chinese children with his own life! We are grateful we had him.

Paula Windschitl Posted over a year ago

I know Phil Scriver not as and educator but as a good and decent human being. He is an excellent father, doing activities together with his 4 sons and setting a great example of what it means to care for others. He is also an excellent husband, leading his family in a Godly lifestyle and Christian upbringing. He served us previously in another role (prior to his teaching career) and he was kind, caring and professional. All of these qualities no doubt flow into his teaching position as he leads children in paths of integrity and wisdom. We are honored to nominate him for this award.

George Yang Posted over a year ago

In 2015,When Mr. Scriver was principal of Eagle School in Beijing, China, my son Jerry went to school and was baptized as a Christian by Phil. I went to Phil's family bible study and was baptized as a Christian by Phil. We love him and thank him for bringing us to God.

Keith Wordell Posted over a year ago

Phil has been a life changer in the lives of students both here in America and around the world with his teaching and character. All this while battling brain cancer is an amazing feat, worthy of your award.

Connie Scharf Posted over a year ago

Phil has shown remarkable resolve to keep teaching in the face of brain tumors and the resulting tests and appointments. He’s also a wonderful, Christian family man.

Mint Posted over a year ago

Awesome!

Laura Posted over a year ago

Phil and his family are wonderful and a huge blessing to our school and community!

Tegan Posted over a year ago

He is so deserving of this award!

Peggy Linn Posted over a year ago

I’m pleased to call Phil and his family our friends. He is an inspiration to us as he leads his life, his family, and his classroom with integrity and dignity. His students are fortunate to have his as their teacher.

Nancy Johnson Posted over a year ago

Mr. Scriver is an amazing role model and leader to all students he interacts with! His calm nature and ability to encourage a students strengths builds confidence and trust with his students and the respect they have for him comes naturally! He is a Blessing to so many!

Mei Huang Posted over a year ago

I have known Mr.Scriver for over 10 years. He is like a mentor to me for my teaching career. He is always very encouraging and positive to his coworkers and students. His dedication to teaching is remarkable!

Shiying Wu Posted over a year ago

Phil loves his wife, children, family, colleagues, students, friends, and fighting cancers many years. Admirable! God bless him!

Zhaoxia Liu Posted over a year ago

Phil Scriver once teached in Beijing, China. My daughter is one of his student. I appreciate d him for his Christian spirit. I also pray for his whole family that he could get well from the cancer totally and give glory to God!

Nate Scharf Posted over a year ago

I have coached basketball with Phil for the last two years as his assistant. His patience with the team and his effort to make each player feel like a valuable part of the team is phenomenal. He has helped each individual on the team grow as well as his coaching staff! Thanks Phil!

Paul and Susan Scriver Posted over a year ago

What a blessing you are to the students and all who get to work with you! A great example of a Christian young man who lives his life with trust and confidence in God's plans. We are very proud and thankful! Love, Mom and Dad

Dawn Hamlin Posted over a year ago

I am very impressed that Phil continues teaching his students while going through treatment for brain cancer. He is very dedicated to his students!!

Gene Rodewald Posted over a year ago

We vote for Phil!

Kurk Kramer Posted over a year ago

Phil has a love for teaching and helping his students! He is extremely dedicated to his classroom responsibilities and has dedicated his life to the classroom and students despite his challenges with cancer. He commits his time and efforts to teaching while balancing his responsibilities as a father, husband, and educator. He has never let his life challenges interfere with his responsibilities and dedication to teaching. He is inspirational!

Helen Posted over a year ago

Sounds like a motivating & inspiring, dedicated teacher!

JANET L KRAMER Posted over a year ago

Phil Scriver is a compassionate, Christian father of four young boys, who teaches sixth grade at Truman Public school. He has been recently dealing with brain cancer, but continues to teach in his classroom and provide a positive example of strength and patience to his students.

Heather Posted over a year ago

As Phil’s younger sister, I have always looked up to him and am so proud of all he has accomplished!

Rogan Scriver Posted over a year ago

My dad loves teaching and his students!

Danielle Scriver Posted over a year ago

Phil loves teaching and puts his whole heart into it! He enjoys helping all his students reach their highest potential. Everything he does in the classroom reflects his love for his students.

Jan Ringeisen Posted over a year ago

My experience with Mr. Scriver is that he maintains a positive, professional attitude despite the circumstances. I believe that he works to build good relationships with children, giving them confidence and pride. Phil is a highly respected member of our staff. I appreciate all that he does for students at Truman Public School.

Allison Posted over a year ago

Mr Scriver sees the value and potential in each and every student. He provides them with what they need to excel at their level. As a special education teacher, I appreciate his willingness to accommodate special needs students in his classroom. He is always professional and seeks resources needed to provide academic and emotional support for his students. Thank you Mr. Scriver!