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Avon Middle School English language arts teacher Becky Haenfler 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. Haenfler was nominated anonymously for creating a classroom environment where students are excited about reading and learning. Haenfler holds a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and a Master of Arts as a reading specialist from the University of South Dakota. She uses her expertise to elevate literacy and learning every day. Haenfler’s thoughtful, student-centered approach motivates learners at different levels and fosters confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking. Her engaging instruction emphasizes meaningful lessons built around novels that help students make real-world connections and develop into lifelong readers. One of Haenfler’s most recent accomplishments was being named the 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year. She was recognized for her ability to ensure every student has the support needed to tackle challenging and inspiring texts. “Through her dedication to student growth, ability to build joyful, rigorous literacy experiences, and commitment to supporting the next generation of teachers, Ms. Haenfler exemplifies what it means to be a LifeChanger,” said the nominator. “Her work helps students succeed academically and find confidence, joy, and purpose in their learning.” 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. (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 Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/. Visit here to read Haenfler’s nominee profile. If you're interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.