Ashley Swartz

Position: Special Education 12th Grade

School: River Terrace Education Campus

School District: District of Columbia Public Schools

City, State: Washington , District of Columbia

About the Nominee: This is the second year Ashley Swartz has been nominated for LifeChanger of the Year. She was previously nominated in 2015-16."Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all."-Aristotle.Mrs. Swartz teaches from the heart each and every day at River Terrace Education Campus. She was nominated in 2015-2016 while completing her 5th year teaching and her first year at District of Columbia Public Schools. Mrs. Swartz recently became a 2016 Apple Distinguished Teacher to support the school's Apple Technology goals. She teaches with rigor and enthusiasm while keeping her students on task and engaged during her high school biology class. At River Terrace, the students have a wide range of disabilities, but they all have the ability to learn in their own way. Mrs. Swartz understands the needs of all students and builds her students from the foundation up. She has spent time with the Family Engagement Team to enhance supports that can bridge the gap between home and school. Most days, students in her classroom enjoy being relaxed, benefitting from low-lighting, motivational quotes and music. Mrs. Swartz is truly an inspiration to River Terrace and is always looking for ways to better herself and her colleagues. In a team environment, everyone achieves more, together. At River Terrace, Mrs. Swartz is a LifeChanger!

[nominee_videos nominee_email="ashley.swartz@dc.gov"]