(Fort Washakie, WY) – Fort Washakie Elementary School special education/life skill teacher Michele Thompson has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award.
National Life Group’s 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.
Thompson was nominated by her colleague, Brooke Enos, for working tirelessly to ensure that each of her students receives a tailored education that meets their unique needs.
Thompson is a deeply motivated and outstanding special education teacher. Her extensive knowledge in designing appropriate curricula has been instrumental in fostering both academic and personal growth among her students. Thompson’s ability to think creatively allows her to develop innovative teaching strategies that engage and inspire her students, helping them achieve their full potential.
Thompson’s leadership within the school is evident. Teachers consistently seek her out for support with building social stories for their students and designing other structured work systems. She is a trusted resource and mentor, always willing to share her expertise and collaborate to improve outcomes for students across the school.
She is also deeply committed to producing a nurturing atmosphere. It is evident that all of her students feel safe with her, and she plays an integral role in teaching them how to express their needs. Her dedication to building strong relationships with her students further enhances their learning experience, creating an environment where they feel safe, understood, and encouraged to succeed.
“Michele Thompson’s impact on the Fort Washakie School and community has been profound. Her passion for education and unwavering dedication to her students set her apart as an exemplary educator. It has been an absolute privilege to work with Michele, and I wholeheartedly believe she is an excellent candidate for the LifeChanger of the Year Award,” said Enos.
About LifeChanger of the Year
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $850,000 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.
- (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $20,000 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 2026. 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 here.
Click here to read Thompson’s nominee profile. If you’re interested in nominating someone from your school community, click here.