LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Lizzy Appleby was nominated by Gayla Olesky, a parent of a student.

"I'm nominating Lizzy Appleby for this award as she was an amazing teacher, providing structure, safety, instruction, encouragement, kindness, and love to her students," explains Olesky. "She made them feel seen, heard, held, and safe during an incredibly challenging two years. Not only did Lizzy guide her fourth-grade class through the challenges that arose when the pandemic began, but she also supported her students by moving into a fifth-grade teaching position the following year. This selfless act provided stability, continuity, comfort, and support as her whole class from the previous year chose to keep her as their teacher. Students had the same classmates from the last year, which was instrumental in their growth, ability to feel connected, and sense of family.

"Lizzy also began each day with a circle where each student had an opportunity to share feelings, good experiences, and challenges they may be facing. I felt incredibly fortunate that my son had such a strong presence and model in his life for two years," said Olesky.