2019-2020
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
Eric Crouch
Double Churches Elementary School
Eric was moved to become an educator after his own struggles in school due to attention issues. As a result of his experiences, he made it his mission to engage his students and give each of them equal opportunity to discover their passions and use them as a vehicle for achievement. He also encourages his students to channel their passions into serving the community and making a difference.
When Hurricane Michael devastated a nearby community in 2016, he and a few of his students immediately took action. They traveled to Bay County, Florida, to interview teachers and other individuals impacted by the hurricane, and create a documentary to spread awareness for the thousands of families who had been displaced. After being shared by thousands on social media, the documentary drove close to two million dollars in donations to Bay County School District.
As the Grand Prize Winner, Eric has received $10,000 to be shared between a $5,000 individual award and a $5,000 donation to Double Churches Elementary School.
GRAND PRIZE FINALISTS
These educators have received $5,000 from the National Life Group Foundation to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to their school or district.
LIFECHANGER AWARD WINNERS
These educators have received $3,000 from the National Life Group Foundation to be shared between a $1,500 individual award and a $1,500 donation to their school or district.
SPIRIT AWARD
The 2019-20 Spirit Award was given to Nicolas Williams from Little Rock, AR because of the incredible support he received for his nomination. He received $5,000 to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to his school.
SPOTLIGHT AWARD
The 2019-20 Spotlight Award was given to Jason Knies from Jasper, IN for his exemplary work as a school resource officer. He received $5,000 to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to his school.