Lake County School District 7 Educator Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award
February 24, 2025 –Lakeview, OR– Lakeview High School youth employment counselor Shawn Gerber 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.
Gerber was nominated by his district’s superintendent, Michael Carter, for transforming the high school's work experience program into one of the best in the state. In just four years, the program has provided students with academic credit and real-world job experience through internships. Last summer, 54 students participated, with five moving directly into their chosen professions or apprenticeships after graduation.
In addition, Gerber revitalized a struggling food backpack program, now serving over 175 students weekly. He recruited volunteers, wrote grants, and even added fresh fruits and vegetables to the program, ensuring students have access to nutritious food.
“Mr. Gerber’s dedication and service make him a true LifeChanger,” said Carter.
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 Gerber’s nominee profile. If you're interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.