Dusty Jenkins Spence
Position: Teacher and ISS Coordinator
School: Blacksburg High School
School District: Montgomery County Public School System
City, State: Blacksburg, VA
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Music that Describes Dusty
Dusty Spence was nominated by an anonymous parent and one of her students.
"When you say the word "LifeChanger," Ms. Spence comes to mind," said the parent. "Over her decades of teaching in both the private and public sector, she has changed the lives of so many students, parents, and future teachers she has mentored." She has taught every grade level over the years, as well as kids across every economic, emotional, and academic spectrum. She not only provides her students with information, but she gives them the belief that they can accomplish anything they are determined to work for. Ms. Spence attends after-school activities and sports events, visits homes, and is a partner and advocate for parents.
Ms. Spence makes sure each child is remembered, loved, and included. She has provided clothing, gifts, and meals, not only for her students, but their extended families. When her private school closed due to COVID-19, she was immediately sought after for different schools. She now teaches children virtually across three different school divisions. She provides a safe place for kids to receive additional one-on-one learning. Parents trust her. Kids adore her. Administration relies on her expertise and knowledge. Student teachers want to shadow and learn from her. She provides before and after school programs and summer programming. She makes learning fun, and her students are always active, learning, and involved with giving back to the community.
Ms. Spence also loves her community. She is very active in government and civic groups to promote learning and advancement. Her two grown, successful children have received their college degrees and are thriving. Now, she is the mom to all children who are in her room. Her high standards of learning, character, and morals are respected. She disciplines with love and believes in the hopes and dreams of each child, pushing them to give their best. She is a blessing to all who are lucky to know her. Students adore her, parents love and respect her, faculty appreciate her, and administration are amazed with the dedication and abilities to teach all students while changing lives everyday. She is a true LifeChanger!
Spence was also nominated by one of her students.
“I met Ms. Spence last year, my senior year in high school,” said the student. “She provided the stability I needed and completely turned my life around. She not only helped me graduate academically, but she provided the guidance and help that I needed emotionally to make sound choices and gave me advice in every area of my life.
“Students could not make it without this woman in our school. She treats every student as if they will conquer the world and builds them up daily. At the same time, she provides individual attention so that each student feels loved, secure, and has the ability to conquer the world. Whether it’s tough love, or a shoulder to cry on, she is there.”
She can teach any subject and has helped so many of us with extra tutoring or just teaching in small groups. She is loved by the faculty, administration, and students follow her daily and come to her room just to chat. She attends sporting events, extra-curricular activities, and helps with testing. She is there for us 24/7. She has overcome many health obstacles but you would never know it. She always has a smile, a kind word, and a loving spirit and heart to everyone. She will jump in and help anyone, at any time. She’s been teaching and in academics forever and I’ve had older family members that have had her as a teacher. She is one of the teachers that you remember for a lifetime, and she will remember you. She still keeps in touch with a cousin, 15 years later. When you think of a LifeChanger, you think of her!
I can think of no one more deserving of this award. As my life-long friend, she has always been a beacon of light and positivity. She offers love, learning, and friendship to everyone. Anyone that knows her, already knows she is a LifeChanger.
I have known Dusty for many years (both professionally and personally) and I have always admired her passion that she has for teaching. She always goes above and beyone to make sure the needs of the children are met both inside and outside the classroom. She cares for the well being of the total child (academically, physically, and all other areas). I have admired her ability to adapt to an ever-changing world and classroom environment. There is a tireless energy about her that she builds in others. She is able to remain focused and dedicated to her students even when there is a unknown storm around...she calms both the mind and spirit. In a world that sees many people give "just enough", Dusty goes above and beyond as a teacher, a mom, and as a leader in the community. She is worthy of recognition as a life changer. I believe this is because she gives selflessly and has a heart to see others benefit and grow!
Dusty is one of the greatest influences a child could have in their life. As a young teacher, she guided and molded me to help me become the teacher I strive to be. She is a great role model for students and teachers alike. She's dedicated to all the children she comes into contact with and has so much knowlege about teaching, behavior, needs, ... the list goes on. She is such a blessing!
Congratulations Ms. Dusty! You deserve this and more. You are awesome at you do. Me and my kids appreciate everything you have done over the years. BHS is so lucky to have you there. Keep up the great work!
Dusty is one of the most dedicated teachers I've ever met. She goes above and beyond to give her students the best learning experience possible. These past few years, she has suffered medical setbacks which would have made most just stay in bed and take disability. Her concern was not for herself, but for doing what she was called to do, and what was best for her students. She is not your 8am-3pm teacher. I have seen her collect items to use in her classroom. She raises money for students and families in distress. She provides clothing, food, school supplies, and other items for her students and families. I've seen her tutor kids, spend her nights and weekends-working around the parent's schedules. I've seen her at extra curricular activiites....all this above and beyone her own family (which is beyond an active group by themselves). Her energy is always high, her smile and personality is contagious, and she always finds the blessings around her.
Dusty has devoted her professional life to children by teaching academics and modeling the way to care for others. She is well loved by her students because they know she loves them. Building relationships with children is critical to being able to help them learn and grow. Dusty continues to bring those skills to her job every single day. As a teacher (and one that taught her children), she served and volunteered in every capacity possible. Her own children modeled her behavior by both pursuing academic careers. She talks the talk and walks the walk.
Dusty is not only an amazing teacher, but a wonderful friend. She has overcome many obstacles in the last several years that most people would not have even survived. She faced these with grace, strength, and a spirit of being blessed (and sharing that blessing with others). Teaching and being a mentor to all those around her is her priority, regardless of what storm she is going through. She is very dedicated and puts her soul into all that she sets out to do. She is a wonderful mom, friend, spiritual anchor, and giver. This award could not go to a more deserving woman.
Ms. Dusty dedicates so much of herself to ensuring the success of her students. During times of adversity is where she steps up and shines, showing more determination than ever. She always finds a way through it, and will bring others with her (sometimes kicking and screaming). She performs the job of 20 others in one, with grace and knowledge. She should be applauded. Ms. Dusty, you are just awesome and we love you!
Ms. Dusty has been "my person". We originally met when I was in a very dark time in my life. I live 5 hours from home, my family. Ms. Dusty has been my rock, my mom when I'm away from my mom, and just an all around miracle for me; just as she is to other new teachers, co-workers, and all her students. She is creative, devoted, and the most passionate teacher I have ever met. She makes me want to be a better teacher. There is nothing that can break her organization methods, her spirit, or her love for every student and person she meets; you can't be shy with this one, she'll make you talk. She is a well-rounded, bubbly woman that nothing can stop. Moral of the story, I believe that Ms. Dusty Spence SHOULD be elected lilfe changer of the year. I couldn't see anyone else that is more fit to fill this role better than my Momma D. <3
Dusty has made a huge impact on both my son, and myself. As a single mom, I have had struggles and she has walked me thru issues, made contacts for me and got the help that was needed. She helped my son come out of his shell and thrive in a learning environment that builds his mind and spirit. He loved having her as a teacher. She has gone above and beyond for the students and the parents and we all want her to win this award!
She is definity deserving of this award. She has endured so much over the last several years and overcame every obstacle or situation that has been thrown her way. She is very strong willed to give the children what they need, day in and day out.
She is called many endearing names by her students, and all reflect just how deserving she is of this honor. She has always gone the extra mile to be sure her students are getting the education and love that they need to get them thru either an hour, a day, or a week at time. She has faced so many health challenges of her own, and even during the pandemic, and in spite of the stress and struggles, she has always went over and beyond for her kids. She is very determined to be there for them in every capacity needed. She is the calm in the storm and helps them to overcome challenges. Very deserving candidate!
There is no one anymore deserving of this award than Dusty! Her dedication to our young people is unmatched. Not just in the classroom, but outside the classroom. She takes her love of the profession along with her love for children outside of the classroom to the families. In today's world, that is rare. Each child who has the privilege to be taught, guided, and loved by Dusty are truly blessed!
Congrats Dusty! A well deserved honor.... our youth need more teachers with your dedication. You have consistently done this for many, many years, and you only get better!
Dusty is a great teacher! She pushed my kids to work hard, learn the basics, and they made great grades. She tutors, and makes sure the kids understand what is being taught. She not only teaches academics, but she goes above and beyond with citizenship, manners, etc. She teaches the entire spectrum and makes kids want to do better.
My daughter absolutely adores Ms. Spence (Ms. Dusty). She goes the extra mile to provided fun and educational activities for the kids. She was always there to help in anyway possible for the little ones. Every school and summer program has been blessed to have her leading the team!
I've watched this woman for years pour her heart, sweat, and tears into her kids. I've seen her teach all day, go to after school activities, participate in search parties, sit by hospital beds. I've seen her counsel students and parents that were at their breaking points. She has been there to tutor and to comfort in ways that only she can. She is tough love and has high expectations for everyone around her - yet she does this in such a way that everyone wants to rise to the challenge to succeed and do better. She turns kids around that have been labeled by society. She makes them love learning. When schools closed, I've seen her zoom from home, hold classes outside, and go to homes to teach. I've seen her hold children while crying (or until they do)...when no one else can break thru, she does. A trip out to the store, or dinner out, will eventually end with kids that have ran into her, or chatting with parents. Once a child is in her class, they are her kids forever. She does all this while being a wonderful mom to her own kids, active in the community and church, and always being there for her family and friends. This woman is the definition of "LifeChanger". She has been nominated for years, and it is time to acknowledge her!
Dusty is an amazing person and a fantastic person. I've seen her handle so many situations, scenarios, and challenges with grace and leadership. The kids view her not only as a teacher, but a mentor and mom. Parents look to her as a confidant, friend, and trusted guide. Co-workers look to her for her experience and how to do this ever-changing, and difficult, job. Administrators look to her for her unique style and abilities who is also responsible and goes above and beyond what is asked. She brings this to everyone, everyday with a smile and a spirit that won't let anyone give up.
Ms. Spence is a wonderful teacher. She takes her time for both the students and parents. As a single parent it is hard to stay on track and be 100% of everything for our kids. She helps us stay on track with homework, and is a guide through parenting. Even though my child has aged out of her care, she is still there, and always will be a fixture in our family. Once she is a teacher to your child, she is a teacher for life. She instills everything good into our kids and we are blessed! She must win this award this year!
Ms. Dusty is an amazing teacher and person. My girls absolutely loved her as a teacher and I loved my kids having her. She is a very kind and thoughtful person. She is very loved....just to see her out in public...kids, parents, and community run to see her!
Ms. Spence goes above and beyone for all of her students and expects the best of them. She is an amazing educator and person, who in the face of a challenging situation, finds the solution that is best for the individual student and implements it immediately. She is absolutely amazing and I'm lucky to work with her!
Dusty is one of the kindest people I've ever met. She is an amazing teacher, but more...she guides students, and helps them prepare to be a better person. She doesn't just set them up to fail, she is there to make sure they succeed. She is an advocate for her students, and partner to the parents, and a wonderful assett to her school. She is a support system to everyone. No other is more deserving to win this award than Dusty!
Dusty is one of the kindest people I've ever encountered. She is my true life saver. Several weeks ago, I witnessed her in action in a restaurant. Me and my husband were visiting our daughter at a local college. My husband, whom she did not know, had a medical emergency and she jumped in. She gave clear direct orders to staff, those wanting to help but didn't know what to do. She gave life-saving first aid and resuscitated him. She had him back before the rescue squad arrived. She calmed me and my daughter, directing us as to what to do. We both were hysterical. She guided medical staff that arrived on all the necessary information. She directed the staff (all young kids) as to what needed to be done. She then waited and prayed with us and had the entire situation under control. I was amazed at her calm, yet directive and clear actions. To watch her, I thought she was a nurse. I later found out from the restaurant staff where she worked. If she does this much for a total stranger, I can only imagine what she is like in a school setting. She deserves this award!
Dusty has always been a caring and loving example to her students. She constantly strives to show students how to become the best person they can be and how to deal with daily struggles during challenging times. She loves her job and it shows to her students, her coworkers, and anyone that she comes into contact with on a daily basis.
Ms. Spence has taught 3 out of the 4 of my children and if I had the money I would personally pay her to be my children's personal teacher for regular schooling and once graduated she would teach them through all of college as well. She is that amazing and truly unforgettable! No one else will ever compare to her in any way ever. Also as a close friend she gives the most sound advice and whom I strive to become more like. I love her with everything in me and pray for her health, wealth and safety on a daily basis! Phenomenal doesn't even tip what she is!
Dusty is always here with a pleasean attitude and outstanding work ethic. I appreciate her smiling through some of the toughest situations that arises in a school setting. Dusty takes into consideration a student's background and is always willing to listen and emphasize with students and teachers alike. She is loved by everyone at BHS and is a positive influence on everyone she encounters.
I think everyone should vote for Ms. Spence because she is an amazing person. She takes care of every problem that comes her way calmly and efficiently. She cares and loves her students and always brightens up the room with her lovely smile. She will drop her problems to help students and make sure that they are on the right track and becomes successful in life. She loves kids and helps them academically, and makes sure they are ok physically and mentally. She checks on them during and after school if needed and tutors before and after school and during her lunches. If she sees someone upset or mad, she will help them calm down and find peace with their situation. She deseres this award and we need to show her just as much love as she shows us.
Over the last several years, I've seen her tackle and conquer obstacles that would have killed a normal person. From surviving a near death experience, and continued health issues, she arrives to work early, works with a smile, and is always there to support the students, her colleagues, her family with such energy that no one would every know her own struggles behind that smile. From her private school closing, working in a on online environment only, and now in a public school setting, it is obvious her ability to adjust to circumstances far beyond her control and to calm the students around her is a gift. Her dedication and love the these kids is her driving force. She is also a wonderful mom to her own grown kids. But she is "mom" to everyone, from kids at school, sports mom, her friends children, kids at church, even strangers in public, the list continues. I've seen her counsel parents, be at after school events, assist with tutoring, bring gifts to kids' homes, assist parents in whatever they need. If something is needed, she would come up with a plan to make it happen. She is an amazing woman who has dedicated years with a smile on her face and love in her heart. She is most deserving of this award.
Ms. Spence and I are colleagues at BHS. She has an excellent rapport with the students. She seeks to help them succeed academically. But, she also imparts wisdom in helping guide them to be successful in the real world. I hope Dusty wins this award. She is such a great asset to our school.
I can honestly say with utmost confidence that Dusty is easy going, friendly, and professional. She is a kind and caring individual that is always willing to help students and staff. I learned recently that she faces many personal health issues daily, yet you would never know it by her pleasant demeanor. Her position at BHS can be very challenging and she always approaches it day with a smile and positive attitude. She is such a joy to be around and would be most deserving of the Lifechanger Award - she changes lives EVERY day!
I've worked with Dusty in two different schools. She was my mentor as a new teacher as well as my lead teacher. She is productive, determined, and experienced. She is a wonderful teacher. She makes learning fun for the kids but has high expectations. Teachers look up to her and her knowledge base is amazing. I've been blessed to learn from her and she is very deserving of this honor.
Everyday at BHS, Ms. Spence works with students who need continuous reminders or prompting. She organizes and monitors their work loads in a manner that has increased the amount of work that I, as a classroom teacher, are receiving back from ISS. It's no longer a matter of missing assignments when assigned ISS. Not only does she teach the material, but she makes sure the kids are returning work. It's a relief to have her in that position. It's a plus for the students. They aren't falling behind when they are with her. Her experience and ability to nudge students forward has made a huge difference to the students who frequent ISS. Honestly, ISS is now a meaningful and life lesson timeout from the classroom.
Dusty is fantastic with our kids. She has such a great relationship with not only the kids but everyone she encounters.
She is amazing to work with and is a wonderful mentor to the new teachers. She helps not only the students but all the teachers here. We are so lucky to have her.
We are so lucky to have Dusty as a part of our team. She is organized and does a fabulous job coordinating student suspensions. When the students are with her she is kind yet firm. She builds great relationships with students and the faculty are impressed with the changes the students make when they are with her.
Dusty gets along with all the teachers and administration. She is very well liked and the most positive influence on the kids at BHS. She is a valued collegue.
Dusty is a valueable asset for BHS. She has a very tough job that requires an unique skill set. She goes above and beyond the call of duty to help the students who come her way. She is an exceptional teacher and most definitely deserves this Lifechanger Award!
I highly recommend Ms. Spence for this award. She is a colleague that is passionate about her job. Her organizational and attention to detail makes her classroom a place where learning can occur. Her job is tough but she perfect for it. Her students know exactly what the expectations are and she holds them accountable. She is very respected by students, faculty, and administrators alike.
I highly recommend Ms Spence for the LifeChanger of the Year award. I’ve met and talked with her on many occasions and I can honestly say that she is my favorite teacher. She treats me like a person and helps me by teaching in a way that you don’t realize you are learning. She shows what a truly kind person looks like. I do, and always will, respect Ms Spence and I believe she is the best choice for LifeChanger of the Year!
Ms. Spence had not only changed the way I see things in my life but she also gives me advice as well. She has always helped me, over the past 2 years. She is seen as a mom
,a teacher, a helper. Overall she is just an amazing person. She can tell just by looking at us, what kind of day we are having, if we need to talk, or if we just need a snack. She makes you believe that you can get grades, and be a better person. She changes your life around and you don’t even realize what she’s doing. At the end of the day, she will welcome anyone into her arms.
She helps every student she can. She treats students as people and listens. She teaches how to be kind and how to see things from other perspectives. She helps to break down problems so they are solved. She’s my pick for LifeChanger!
Ms. Spence should win this award. She helps us and is always smiling and helpful. Even if we are in trouble, she makes us feel like we learned something and we come away with tools to make it better. She is a positive influence to all of us that come into her room.
Ms. Spence is a valuable part of the Blacksburg High School community. She is a great team member all around. Ms. Spence has also strived to build relationships with students she encounters daily. I have witnessed Ms. Spence connect to so many studnet in unique situations in order to help them. With these qualities, I feel as though Ms. Spence is a true Life Changer.
She is the best teacher! Students listen and connects with her. She explains the work in our terms and is always there to help. She always smiles and turns our day around if we are struggling or having a bad day. She will hold us accountable but never makes us feel bad. She remembers small details about each of us and follows up with us. She really is one in a million!
