Crawford Elementary School kindergarten teacher Ginger Abney has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award. National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year 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.
Abney was nominated by her colleague, Mary Riley, for her consistent commitment to making a meaningful difference in her students’ lives.
She is a natural leader, instilling the values of respect, integrity, and perseverance in staff and students alike. Abney’s ethical approach to education sets a standard that others strive to uphold, and her character is a guiding influence on the school community.
Abney consistently demonstrates a deep knowledge of her subject area, and her ability to communicate complex concepts in an engaging and understandable way is unparalleled. Her classroom is a model of best practices, where students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and actively engage in their learning.
“Ms. Abney is deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for all students. She understands that academic success is intertwined with emotional well-being and is constantly working to create a safe and caring space where students feel comfortable expressing themselves,” said Riley.
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+ 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.
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(1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/district.
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(4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
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(10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
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(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.
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(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 comprised 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
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Make a positive impact on the lives of students
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Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride
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Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
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Possess a proven record of professional excellence
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Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
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Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.
Visit here to read Abney’s nominee profile. If anyone is interested in nominating someone from their school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.