2025-2026
The results are in - and we might be coming to your school!
We’re getting ready to hit the road to surprise this year’s National Life Group LifeChanger of the Year winners. These outstanding K-12 teachers and school employees were chosen from nearly 1,100 nominees across the country. Stay tuned to see where we’re heading!
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
Jenora Haynes
Business Entrepreneurship Teacher
Westbury High School
Houston, TX
As a teacher at a Title 1 school, Ms. Haynes addresses barriers that go far beyond academics. She brings in moments of encouragement, humor, and reflection to keep her classroom environment uplifting and supportive. Whether it's starting the day with an inspiring quote, sharing real-world success stories, or simply checking in on how students are feeling, she strives to make her classroom a space where students feel motivated to show up as their best selves. She creates an inclusive atmosphere where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn rather than setbacks.
At Westbury High School, she introduced a DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) chapter to prepare students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. She introduces students to college programs, legal and business pathways, internships, mentors, and competitions, which often change the trajectory of their lives for the better.
We and National Life Group are proud to have Ms. Haynes as this year's Grand Prize Winner and are giving her $20,000 to be shared between a $10,000 individual award and a $10,000 donation to her school, plus a trip to the Dominican Republic in March.
“Before I met Ms. Haynes, I was slipping into trouble and didn’t really see a clear path for myself. She saw potential in me that I didn’t even recognize. She pushed me to stay focused, challenged me to think bigger, and taught me how discipline and responsibility can open doors. Her belief in me made me want to do better, not just in school, but in life. Because of her guidance, I stayed out of trouble and started to believe in my own future.”
2025-2026 AWARDS
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$20,000 to be split between a $10,000 individual cash award and a $10,000 donation to the winner’s school/district, plus an all-expenses paid trip to the Dominican Republic in March
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$5,000 to be split between a $2,500 individual cash award and a $2,500 donation to the winner’s school/district
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$3,000 to be split between a $1,500 individual cash award and a $1,500 donation to the winner’s school/district
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Given to the LifeChanger whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination.
$5,000 to be split between a $2,500 individual cash award and a $2,500 donation to the winner’s school/district
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Given to a LifeChanger in a specific discipline each year. For the 2025-26 school year, this award will be given to a physical education/health teacher and/or sports coach.
$5,000 to be split between a $2,500 individual cash award and a $2,500 donation to the winner’s school/district