Paul Banks Elementary School kindergarten and first grade teacher Jennifer Reinhart has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-25 LifeChanger of the Year award. The award “recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.”

According to a Feb. 27 press release from National Life Group’s Lifechanger of the Year program, Reinhart was nominated anonymously for her profound impact on students, particularly those with special needs.

“It is an honor to be nominated for this award,” wrote Reinhart in a Monday email. “I have been so blessed to work at Paul Banks, where our staff is a team that always puts students first. The care and compassion for each and every child’s academic and emotional well-being is evident.”

Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Seventeen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2024-2025 school year, ranging from $10,000 to $5,000.

Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2025.