Special to IFN
Park View Elementary School teacher Jessy DeFrancisco has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-2026 LifeChanger of the Year Award.
The award recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the U.S. who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
DeFrancisco was nominated anonymously.
“Ms. DeFrancisco creates a positive classroom environment by setting clear expectations, offering consistent encouragement, and intentionally integrating social-emotional learning into daily routines,” the nominator wrote. “She believes that when students feel a true sense of belonging, they become more willing to take academic risks, support one another, and grow as learners and individuals. Through her thoughtful approach to behavior guidance and community building, Ms. DeFrancisco fosters a classroom where students feel safe, seen, and empowered. Her focus on connection and emotional well-being lays the foundation for a supportive and thriving learning space.”
About LifeChanger of the Year
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300-plus school districts. The program has awarded over $850,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
(1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee composed of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2026. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees.
To be considered for an award, nominees must:
♦ Make a positive impact on the lives of students;
♦ Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride;
♦ Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level;
♦ Possess a proven record of professional excellence;
♦ Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning; and
♦ Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
LEARN MORE
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.
Visit HERE to read DeFrancisco’s nominee profile.