Eureka High Teacher Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award

Eureka High art and photography teacher Jessica Esfahani has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-2025 LifeChanger of the Year award.

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. 

Esfahani was nominated by Dr. David Arledge, an assistant principal at Eureka High, for the positive relationships she makes with students and the leadership roles she embodies at the school and district levels.

"She creates these relationships through trust, respect and understanding. Many of her students will take every class she teaches because they know she is their person," Arledge said in Esfahani's nomination. "She is a fantastic teacher but an even better human. She puts others before herself, leads with kindness and empathy, sees the best in others and shows respect and trust. We are so lucky to have her at Eureka High School and as an integral part of our incredible staff."

Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, out of which 17 individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given: a grand prize winner, four grand prize finalists, 10 LifeChanger Award winners, a Spirit Award winner and a Spotlight Award winner.

Esfahani is one of more than 750 nominees this year, including more than 30 from the state of Missouri.

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;

• And adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.