LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Elayne Ellis was nominated by Kelly Pitard, a parent of a student, as well as her colleague Laurie Belliveau.

"I have had the absolute pleasure of knowing Ms. Ellis for the last few years, as she has taught two of my children in her classroom," explains Pitard. "Mrs. Belliveau has worked directly with her for nine years. We want to share with you how she has truly been a LifeChanger who has impacted our lives and those of her students."

"Ms. Ellis has been an outstanding elementary school teacher for over 20 years, an exceptional coworker, colleague, team player, and most importantly, a role model to the students and school community," said Belliveau. "She demonstrates this in many ways. Ms. Ellis is supportive of all students and colleagues within her classroom and school community. She collaborates with stakeholders and administration for successful academic, social, and emotional learning for students. She builds and fosters relationships and demonstrates strong communication and organizational skills. She motivates, supports, and recognizes her students at all levels."

Ms. Ellis is a committed, positive, compassionate, collaborative, and genuinely caring and empathetic person with everyone she engages with, particularly her students. She shows them how to love one another, lift each other up, show empathy, and encourage each other, no matter their struggles or strengths. She demonstrates these qualities daily, in and out of the classroom. 

Educating and supporting the students is her #1 priority. She supports and encourages all students socially, emotionally, and academically. Ms. Ellis understands and accommodates those with learning disabilities, physical and emotional challenges, and all learning styles. She ensures each student gets what they need to learn and be successful in their school and personal lives. Ms. Ellis continuously reaches out to her students and parents, keeps constant communication about their day at school, and also cares about what is going on at home. She makes her lessons exciting by sharing her experiences and amazing personality to engage and interact with the students. Her teaching style is fun and engaging. Ms. Ellis uses a variety of strategies to make her teaching more effective and create a successful learning environment for all students. She is a favorite among students and is frequently sought out by previous students she once had in her classroom.

She is a veteran staff member within the district. She mentors new colleagues and always welcomes all educators with open arms. She shares her wealth of knowledge and experience, and she's enthusiastic about education. Ms. Ellis is part of the Wellness Committee at school, as well, because she cares about each and everyone's well-being. Ms. Ellis encourages everyone to be healthy, happy, and live their best life!

"Ms. Ellis changed my life by showing me how to be an Educator," said Belliveau. "She exudes what every educator should be. Listen - Support - Encourage. In every way possible."

"I'd like to share how she has changed my life, particularly my children's lives," said Pitard. "I had always heard about Ms. Ellis, as she taught several of my nieces and nephews years prior. But it wasn't until I met her for my own children that I realized the magnitude behind this wonderful woman. She has taught both of my children for the last two school years, and in both years, she has consistently surprised me. My children are twins in different grades, and they have polar opposite personalities. When it seemed most people were frustrated with my behavioral child, she welcomed him. When we were out of options, she created more. When I had had enough, she didn't let me quit. She said, 'Let's figure this out,' and came up with a new plan on the drop of a dime."

"She takes the time to get to know each student, and she makes sure they learn in whatever way works for them. She stays in touch with their parents, refusing to let any child fall through the cracks. Elayne handles anything thrown her way with a smile on her face. She has been the kind voice and words, talking to us through our own tears after IEP meetings, the voice of reason or the tough love needed to get the hardest kids through their long days, all while still caring for her own family outside of her workplace," said Pitard.

"I can't piece together the exact words to show my gratitude for her and how she has changed mine and my kids' lives. She has truly made a difference in my children's academic, social, and emotional success. She has made an impact on our lives that will last a lifetime. The love she has for her job shines through daily. She truly cares for all of her children and coworkers and deserves recognition for her 20+ years of love and dedication. For good reason, children from 4+ years prior still visit her on an almost daily basis," said Pitard. "She is truly an asset to our children's lives and school community as an educator and human being. She is a LifeChanger!"