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NPHS teacher Kate Skirvin nominated for national award
ROACHDALE – North Putnam High School agri-science teacher Katrina “Kate” Skirvin has been nominated for the 2016-17 national LifeChanger of the Year Award.
Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, the nationwide LifeChanger of the Year program recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 public and private school educators and employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership.
Skirvin was nominated by North Putnam High School Principal Jason Chew.
Skirvin, who is known throughout the school as “Mama Skirv,” leads an FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapter at her school that includes more than 120 students. Through her leadership, the program has grown from 20-30 high school students.
The group participates in several community service projects over the course of the year. For instance, the group is often seen at the local Tractor Supply Center hosting petting zoos and collecting donations for local charities.
“Through Mrs. Skirvin’s mentorship, many students succeed and prosper even if they have been written off by others,” Chew said. “Many of her students continue into careers within the agriculture industry. She maintains strong connections with these students and will even invite them to eat with her current students in fellowship. There is little doubt that the lessons she instills in her students will impact them for generations to come.”
Each school year, the LifeChanger of the Year program receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. For 2016-17, there will be a total of 15 individual LifeChanger of the Year awards. In addition, a 16th prize, the National Spirit Award, is given to the school and nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination.
Each winner will receive a cash award that is split between the individual winner and their school. The national grand prize is $10,000. Winners are announced in the spring via surprise award ceremonies at their schools. The top five winners will also be honored at a national awards ceremony in Naples, Fla.
Winners will be chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals. Nominees must be school district employees. Award winners are selected based on the following criteria:
• A proven ability to make a beneficial difference in the lives of students.
• An ability to positively add to the development of the school’s atmosphere.
• Being involved in leadership activities at the school and/or community level.
• A demonstrative record of excellent performance at the professional level.
• A commitment to producing a nurturing atmosphere.
• Adherence to high moral and ethical standards.
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at www.lifechangeroftheyearnominees.com/showspirit.
To view Skirvin’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profile, or to nominate someone from the school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.