LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Dawn Tucker was nominated by Tiffany Felgar, a parent of a student.

"It is my great pleasure to write this nomination for LifeChanger of the Year on behalf of Dawn Tucker," explains Felgar. "Mrs. Tucker was my son's fourth-grade teacher at the Academy at Nola Dunn. Each morning, she greets her students with a smile and a hug. You can see how her positivity is reflected on the students so they can confidently start their day."

"I spent some time volunteering at the school and in her classroom, and I saw how she can light up the class with inspiration," said Felgar. "She is energetic, passionate, kind, and promotes a culture of learning where she is an active participant in her students' discussions and activities. She is a great motivator and believes in her students, which empowers them to do their best."

"My family went through a difficult time at the beginning of 2022 with my father's passing," said Felgar. "It was especially hard on my son, who was very close to his papa. He had some emotional mornings the first few months after the funeral. Mrs. Tucker was always there to support him, my family, and me. She recognized when he was having a tough morning and provided a safe place in the class to work separately until he was ready to join the class."

"There were also a couple of times that school year when my son was hospitalized with breathing issues," said Felgar. "She recognized when he wasn't feeling well or his usual self and would always communicate with me. She would send warm get-well wishes and videos from the students that made my son light up with joy. I truly believe she was meant to be my son's teacher that year. She is such a kind and loving educator."

"Mrs. Tucker connects with students and communicates in a way that fosters creativity, expression, and leadership growth," said Felgar. "She is dedicated to her students, their families, and the school. I have been impressed by Mrs. Tucker and how she has been committed to both the educational and emotional growth of her students. I don't know how my son or I would have made it through that school year without her. To me, she is a LifeChanger."