Rio Community School District Educator Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award

February 24, 2025 –Rio, WI– Rio Elementary School second grade teacher Katy Bobzin 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. 

Bobzin was nominated by her colleague, Megan Hartley, for being a dedicated educator who has impacted students in various roles, from school librarian to Early Learner educator. Her passion for teaching and learning led her to earn a Master’s degree while balancing a full-time job and family life, inspiring all who work with her.

When class sizes changed mid-year, Bobzin stepped in to teach a newly created second-grade class, transitioning in just one week to become a full-time teacher. Her ability to stay positive, patient, and caring in the face of challenges has earned her admiration from colleagues and students alike.

"Her positive attitude and dedication make her a true LifeChanger," said Hartley.

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