February 27, 2025

Maricopa, AZ– Heritage Academy Maricopa eighth grade U.S. history teacher Marin Fairbanks has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-25 LifeChanger of the Year award. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, 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.

Fairbanks was nominated by her assistant principal, Alan Daniels, for her outstanding leadership and impact on her school community.

“Ms. Fairbanks is a true champion for students and educators,” said Daniels. “Her dedication to student success is extraordinary.”

Fairbanks has spent five years developing the citizenship class curriculum, equipping students with the skills to be compassionate, thoughtful citizens. As the department chair for drama and dance, she fosters collaboration among faculty and supports students in every way, from tutoring to overseeing the Tabletop Club, which offers a sense of belonging to students.

A passionate volunteer at fine arts events, Fairbanks also continuously seeks professional development to improve her teaching. Her commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment has had a lasting impact on her students and colleagues.

“Her leadership, compassion, and dedication to students make her a true LifeChanger,” said Daniels.

About LifeChanger of the Year

Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,500 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $790,000 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.

Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of 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.

  • (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 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 comprised of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2025. 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 Fairbanks’s nominee profile. If you’re interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.