1-08-2026 4:37pm

Ypsilanti Community Schools Educator Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award 2026

Ypsilanti PressLLC Editor

Ypsilanti Community Schools Educator Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award

January 7, 2026 –Ypsilanti, MI– Ypsilanti Community High School 31a at-risk social worker Kimmy Johnson 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.

Johnson was nominated for her dedication to creating a safe, inclusive space where students’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being are prioritized. She encourages students to be their authentic selves and meets their individual needs with compassion and care.

She founded a school clothing boutique to support students’ confidence and access to essentials. Her impact has been recognized with a 2024 District Support Staff of the Year nomination, a 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award, and a $10,000 It Gets Better Project grant.

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 Johnson’s nominee profile. If you're interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.

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