Tom Ratterman, a special education teacher at Dayton High School, has been nominated for the 2024–25 LifeChanger of the Year award from National Life Group.
LifeChanger of the Year, sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, honors and commends the top K–12 teachers and school district staff in the US who are improving the lives of kids by being outstanding examples of leadership, excellence, and positive influence.
Ratterman received the nomination because of his constant generosity, inspiration, and commitment to improving the lives of Dayton schoolchildren.
Ratterman empowers kids to embrace the values of The Energy Bus by cultivating a culture of kindness, inclusivity, and positivity in his role as head of the Energy Bus for Schools Program. His deeds, not just his words, demonstrate his dedication to changing the world. His arrangement for Bengals kicker Evan McPherson to come and motivate pupils was one particularly noteworthy instance; it made a lasting connection between sports, tenacity, and character.
Ratterman constantly inspires pupils, many of whom view him as one of their few good role models, by living by the maxim that one should treat people as one would like to be treated. He is committed to developing character, purpose, and hope.
Mr. Ratterman continues to inspire students and coworkers with his efforts, and his effect extends beyond the classroom. The nominator stated that he is definitely worthy of this honor.
More than 8,500 K–12 educators, administrators, and school staff from more than 2,300 school districts have been honored and recognized as LifeChanger of the Year since 2011. Over $790,000 in cash rewards have been given out by the program to winners and their schools for significantly improving the lives of kids by demonstrating leadership, excellence, and good influence.
Every academic year, the District of Columbia and all 50 states submit hundreds of nominations for LifeChanger of the Year. In the 2024–2025 academic year, 17 distinct LifeChanger of the Year honors will be presented.
The grand prize winner will split $10,000 with their district or school.
(4) The $5,000 awarded to Grand Prize Finalists will be distributed to the school or district.
(10) The winners of the LifeChanger Award will split the $3,000 with their district or school.
(1) Spirit Award Recipient The nominee who receives the greatest amount of support from their community is granted this honor. The winner’s school or district will split the $5,000 prize.
(1) Winner of the Spotlight Award Every year, a nominee in a certain discipline receives this honor. The winner’s school or district will split the $5,000 prize.
A selection committee made up of education experts and previous winners selects the winners, who will be revealed in early 2025. Teachers in grades K–12 or staff members of school districts are required to nominate. In order to be eligible for an award, nominees need to:
Improve the environment, culture, and pride of the school or district by positively influencing the lives of the kids.Exhibit outstanding leadership at the district and/or school levels; have a track record of professional success; and be dedicated to creating a supportive environment for learning.Follow the most moral and ethical guidelines possible.
visit view Ratterman’s nominated profile, go visit lifechangeroftheyear.com. Please visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com to nominate a member of your school community.
The National Life Group
