About the Nominee: Whitney Blackmore is a true team player. She lifts up the teachers around her and inspires them to do better each day, but where she really shines is in the minds and hearts of her students. She finds special ways of making things click for those around her. She is a natural teacher who never, ever could just settle for good work- she helps those around her achieve higher! She has sought special training in her field on her own and has been able to translate her knowledge into successful strategies for her students. She is able to transform a defeated child into one who knows they are smart and is proud of their abilities.
Suzanne Garwood on December 18, 2012 at 2:04 pm said: Whitney is a wonderful teacher and aunt. She adores my two children, who both have Down syndrome an attribute that she brings to the kids she teaches. She is tirelessly devoted to the cause of helping children with special needs, and recently participated in a 100-mile bike ride to raise money for Best Buddies. Whitney is a wonderful teacher, aunt and mom and is extremely deserving of this honor!
jessica mcconnell on December 18, 2012 at 3:17 pm said: Whitney goes above and beyond with even the most challenging students. She spends enormous amounts of time and energy leading the special education team, mentoring fellow teachers, developing her professional knowledge, engaging her students inside and outside of the classroom and sharing her never ending energy with those around her. Whitney embodies the teacher and person I strive to be. She is, without a doubt, a life changer!!
Dale McDowell on December 18, 2012 at 7:11 pm said: Whitney is one of the kindest people I know. That, coupled with your adventurous spirit, the Team-in-Training events and the skydiving, set an example for youngsters to be active and live a life of adventure.
Jennifer Austin on December 18, 2012 at 9:08 pm said: I have had the pleasure of working closely with Whitney for the past 3 years. Whitney cares deeply for each of her students and takes an active interest in their learning and development. She is genuinely excited with each and every gain that they make. Whitney is a creative thinker and consistently tries new ways to help her students achieve their goals. She is fun, energetic, and positive and a breath of fresh air as an educator and as a colleague.
Mary Saghafi on December 18, 2012 at 9:29 pm said: It is a joy and honor to work with Whitney each day. She is a life changer-and truly deserving of this honor. Day in, and day out, Whitney continuously demonstrates what it means to be an educator in today’s day in age. Whitney’s tireless stamina to better herself contagiously inspires others to raise their own expectations. It is an honor to teach with her – as a friend and as an inspiration to us all. Whether she is ensuring that a student is cutting on the line, or meeting a daily goal – she celebrates their personal achievements as though they had completed a half Ironman, a marathon, or a 100 mile bike ride. She hangs her marathon medals proudly in the classroom and humbly uses these personal triumphs to inspire and bring out the best in those she touches. I also want to say thank you to her for being the best team player! She helps better the whole school with her ability to creatively find solutions, especially going beyond the call of her classroom duties. She always works for the greater good – and especially for what is best for her students. No matter what – you are a life-changer to me. Thank you for your endless support and for making me love teaching again.
Julia Roberts on December 19, 2012 at 6:10 pm said: What can I say about Mrs. Blackmore? Both of my kids have thrived under her care and leadership. We are so lucky to have had her in our lives by teaching and loving our kids. Words cannot express our family’s deep appreciation and gratitude for her.
Kari Cernoch on December 19, 2012 at 7:09 pm said: I honestly do not know where to begin. Whitney is the most caring person I know. I really do not know where I would be with out her in my life. She started out as a co-worker but now is so much more than that. She encouraged me to start running long distances. Since we started running together, we have completed many 1/2 marathons, a marathon and even a half Ironman together. She is the best teammate I could ask for. She unselfishly holds camps at her house for Team in Training, just to help me out. She waits for me when I fall behind in events. Most importantly she picks me up when I am down, and this year I have fallen down a lot. Whitney makes me want to be not just a better teacher but a better person. I don’t think that words can even begin to express how thankful I am for her in my life. She truly deserves this award more than anyone I know.
Amy O'Dell Trocchi on December 20, 2012 at 12:31 am said: Whitney is an amazing woman and teacher. In a time made so challenging for teachers with salary cuts, large class sizes, slashed benefits, and budgets that are so tight that they require more out-of-pocket money than ever, Whitney maintains not only her positive attitude but her strength. She doesn’t just smile her way through the day; she digs in (along with Kari Cernoch above to get everything she can out of these children, inspire them, and serve as an amazing role mode.
Julie Seckman on December 21, 2012 at 3:58 pm said: When I saw that Whitney had been nominated I said “Yeeeeessssss!” Her spirit, positive attitude, smile, helpfulness and numerous wonderful attributes add up to one incredible teacher. Last year she gave the teacher of the year back to school “inspiration” message during our pre-planning teachers meeting. She told the story of a young girl who faced many challenges and how her teachers made all the difference in her life. I was waiting for her to say at the end that it was the story of someone famous and we would go “wow”. Instead it was her story. Instead of “wow” I felt tears. To realize how much impact a teacher can have on a student and then watch that student turn around and have such an enormous impact on others was truly inspirational. That same year I had a student in my class who was facing many of the challenges Whitney described. When I was tempted to become frustrated or want to give up I thought of Whitney’s words and living testimony. It made me want to do all I could for this student and others. Thank you Whitney. You ARE a life-changer!!
Lois on December 22, 2012 at 8:06 pm said: You are amazing Whitney. You inspire me and so many more.
Dale Duncan on January 5, 2013 at 2:35 pm said: I teach choral music to Ms. Blackmore’s daughter. Annually, we produce a musical revue at my school. Ms. Blackmore has a demanding full-time teaching job of her own and she managed to be a key parent volunteer for our production. She showed up on Saturday morning’s and helped sew numerous costumes. In addition, she made sure her daughter, who was a dancer in the show, made it on time to every single early morning dance rehearsal from November until
May! What a wonderful example to her child of how important it is to give back.
Crystal Rasa on January 9, 2013 at 12:29 pm said: I can’t think of a more deserving person! She is an amazing educator – more than a teacher to my sweet girls who have very different needs.
Robin Kirkpatrick on January 9, 2013 at 12:54 pm said: I am so thankful that my daughter has Ms.Blackmore as her teacher! She has been tireless in her efforts to support and encourage her to grow and develop all of her skills and abilities and is so proud to keep us informed as parents about her progress and successes! She always has a ready smile and a positive outlook that I know the kids benefit from being around. She regularly goes above and beyond to support and encourage students and makes me a parent feel enormous gratitude and confidence in the education my daughter is getting. I cannot think of a more deserving candiate than Whitney Blackmore!!
Jenny Flanagan on January 9, 2013 at 5:52 pm said: Mrs. Whitney Blackmore has already been our “life-changer”! Her exceptional knowledge, empathy, and effectiveness have been integral in changing my special-needs son’s life. Words can not express our appreciation!
Angela Pilcher on January 9, 2013 at 7:57 pm said: Congratulations Whitney! A well deserved nomination! I have observed so much that is compelling to justify you as a Life Changer! From staying up late researching new and innovative ways to teach long division to your students, to co-leading the kids track club, to fundraising for a cause, to modeling health and fitness, to offering kids art and cooking camps that my daughter LOVES to attend, to actively participating in school events and committees while wearing both a teacher and a parent hat (and a very genuine smile)! You are amazing! It is a pleasure for this family to know and be inspired by you!
Sonya Williams-Pratt on January 9, 2013 at 10:17 pm said: Whitney truly is an inspiration to all that know her. An awesome teacher, mother and friend!
Brad Schorer on January 9, 2013 at 11:15 pm said: Whitney is an amazing woman who is able to leave a smile and create inspiration to all those around her. By helping organizations like Team in Training to help raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, she not only helped thousands who are fighting these diseases but also inspire her teammates. Her smile, energy, and good nature made everyone forget the pain of their workouts. Whitney brings the best out of everyone!
Ginger Maxwell on January 10, 2013 at 12:19 am said: Whitney is able to be sweet and ever so determined at the same time. My daughter and I( both of us at one time Special Education teachers), kept up with her goal of learning to swim laps to participate in one of her “for some wonderful cause” events. She took on that challenge and succeeded, just as she asks her students to take on difficult challenges and try to succeed.Get the feeling she has already been a “Life Changer” to many of her students.
Jeff Lyon on January 10, 2013 at 7:21 am said: I know Whitney from her work with Team in Training which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She always is always positive and upbeat. Between her teaching and her LLS volunteering, her days are filled with doing good things for others. She is an exceptional, giving and caring person. She changes lives every day.
shannon vogt on January 10, 2013 at 10:05 am said: Whitney has taught my son at Briarlake Elementary School. She is always encouraging and positive about his good traits. She asks for ideas about how to help him, and provides me and my husband with ideas of how to help my son learn. She is always smiling and full of energy. I really appreciate her influence at our school and in my child’s life.
Karina Skelton on January 10, 2013 at 12:37 pm said: Whitney is the epitome of helpfulness, positivity and professionalism.
In her many roles as parent PTA co-president, track club coach, third grade and special education teacher,she has been a “life changer” to many children and truly deserves this award.
Heather Leahy on January 10, 2013 at 1:04 pm said: Whitney Blackmore is one of the brightest spirits at Briarlake (and there are many!). Her positive attitude is contagious. In school and out, she is inspiring to parents and a great role model for our children.
Linda Coil on January 10, 2013 at 9:45 pm said: I was so excited to see Whitney nominated for Life Changer of the Year! She is an amazing teacher and person who has such a positive attitude on her work and life. Her dedication to the students at Briarlake ES is inspiring and my daughter, Natalie, loved her cooking and craft camp so much. Whitney is definitely the perfect candidate to win this award.
Jennifer Crooker on January 11, 2013 at 4:30 pm said: A truly well-deserved nomination! As a Briarlake parent, I have seen Whitney bring such enthusiasm and knowledge to her profession. My daughter is excited by any opportunity to work with her. Whitney told me once that she remembers not enjoying language arts as a student, and it is her goal to prevent that feeling in students. She is innovative, positive, and kind, while stretching students to work to the level she knows they can. To have Whitney at Briarlake, in the elementary years when students are forming their attitudes about education, is a gift.
Deb Wise on January 12, 2013 at 5:34 pm said: I have had the pleasure of working with Whiteny for several years. She is ALWAYS willing to go above and beyond her duties to support other teachers, and she ALWAYS has a kind word and smile to share.
In addition to her regular duties at Briarlake (which keep her running, no doubt), Whitney helped start a track club. Whitney runs and chats with the students as they do their laps. Our children are developing a life-long love of fitness, something I completely missed out on when I was a child. Thanks for being an inspiration, Whit, and best of luck!
Ellen Kersh on January 14, 2013 at 8:42 am said: We love Ms. Blackmore! She is such an encourager. I am grateful how she always has something positive to say to my child. My daughter is not very self confident (yet?); it is wonderful for her that Ms. Blackmore says something nice to her often, and encourages her to try something new, and to trust in her own abilities.
Julie Friedman on January 15, 2013 at 11:31 pm said: Whitney Blackmore for Life Changer of the Year? It’s a no-brainer. Read the above comments. How can I add to them? My son has been fortunate to have her in his school life for several years. She has encouraged him at his hardest times and made sure to brag at his brightest. Her patience, caring, intelligence, and AMAZING teaching skills are the reasons for his success, not only academically but emotionally. Given every obstacle teachers have had to overcome lately it is clear teaching is not just a vocation, but a passion for her. Go, Whitney Blackmore! You Rock!
marci alt on January 16, 2013 at 9:11 am said: Whitney is so deserving of this award she is one strong teacher that always seems to go the extra mile. She has the patience of a saint and in my book is always the life changer of the year. I am grateful to have her as a neighbor and one of my favorite Briarlake teachers….
Mimi crane on January 16, 2013 at 6:10 pm said: Mrs. Blackmore is a great asset to briarlake elementary. My son loves reading with her! She is always so energetic and friendly! She even makes something as simple as calling car line names fun. Lol. Thanks for all your hard work and dedication to our students and school!
Amy Quick on January 17, 2013 at 6:41 pm said: Whitney is one of those people that you are just happy to see at the school and especially if she is one of the teachers in your child’s class. She goes above and beyond the necessary for her kids and is happy to do so. I have 3 daughters and only one of them is a student at Briarlake. My younger two are not even there yet, but Mrs. Blackmore is already their favorite teacher! She just has that kind of effect on the kids. Briarlake and Dekalb are so fortunate to have Whitney as a teacher and she is so deserving of this nomination!!
Melissa Beaupierre on January 22, 2013 at 9:13 pm said: Briarlake is so fortunate to have Mrs Blackmore as a teacher. Before she started teaching at BES I knew her as a committed PTA President who I was so pleased to have helping and leading our school. My oldest had Mrs Blackmore when she first started teaching at Briarlake – honestly unsure at first how this parent, PTA Pres would be as my child’s teacher it took no time at all to see how lucky we were to have our child in her class -that was 5 years ago! Mrs Blackmore is one of the many reasons that I will likely cry like a baby when my youngest moves on from Briarlake this May.
Irenea Seufert on January 24, 2013 at 11:38 am said: Energy – that is the first word that comes to mind when I think of Mrs. Blackmore. I first got to know her before her teaching role at Briarlake, when she worked tirelessly as PTA president and on many fundraising efforts at the school (Sally Foster, raffle tickets to Italy, she did it all). Her hard work on the PTA benefitted the school in so many ways. She now teaches my 4th grader and I am thrilled to have her energy and talents in the classroom! How lucky we are to have such a gifted and generous person cross the paths of our children each day.
Ashley Johnston on January 24, 2013 at 8:36 pm said: I met Whitney through the Team in Training organization which helps to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She not only unselfishly raised money to help millions with cancer, she became a huge inspritation and ray of light to her teammates. Whitney, has become very special to me and I know I can always count on her if I need to see a smiling face, a cheery outlook, help with anything or even to push through a hard training session together. Whitney is one of the greatest, most inspiring people that I’ve ever met! She’s more than deserving of this award!
Holly Brass on January 24, 2013 at 9:23 pm said: Mrs. Blackmore is an absolutely amazing teacher and an incredible inspiration. I find myself at a loss for words when I try to sum up why I know this in my soul and how to convey those feelings to others. Her devotion to ALL of her students is so easy to see in the love and care they reflect right back on her. The comraderie she has with her fellow staff members also serves as proof that to know Whitney is to be included in a very special circle of honesty, compassion, and trust. As a parent who has worked closely with Whitney, I also feel this same joy and enthusiasm whenever I am with her. In her professional life, in her personal life, and the many layers in between, Whitney is an inspiration. There is no hurdle too high to leap for her students, no finish line too far to run for those she cares about, and no amount of giving too large to aid in the fight for those who need help. No doubt about it – Whitney is a life-changer!
Fidie Ramli on January 24, 2013 at 10:16 pm said: I had the pleasure of knowing Whitney through Team In Training, the fundraising component of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society where we trained together for the Half Ironman. She is always upbeat, always positive in her outlook and she has this warm, maternal spirit about her that just pulls people in. She is very committed to the training and to the fundraising process itself and I can absolutely see how great of a teacher she is even without seeing her in the classroom. Whitney is respectful of others, and she is the type that sees the glass at always half full. The easiest way to tell if you are loved is by the number of friends that would go the extra distance for you, and Whitney does not have a shortage of that. I’m glad that our paths crossed.
Erica Garwood on January 25, 2013 at 4:56 pm said: Whitney is an amazing woman. I’ve had the opportunity to watch her grow and mature and I am so proud of her. Whitney has a heart of gold with a generous spirit. She is a devoted wife, Mother, sister and friend. It is my pleasure to have her in my life. Can’t wait to see what’s next. Aint no mountain high enough………………..
Nancy Chalkley on January 25, 2013 at 5:08 pm said: Whitney is an incredible person to coteach with. Not only have our students benefited from her endless enthusiasm for teaching, but I have well as a second year teacher. She is always willing to go above and beyond all expectations to help our students reach their highest potential. I feel very fortunate to have Whitney in my life as a colleague and friend. I truly admire all that she does for those around her with selfless generosity. She is a true life changer!
John Haynie on January 31, 2013 at 11:08 am said: Whitney goes far beyond the extra mile on a daily basis. She is the special ed teacher for my daughter who just started school this year. The transition was a bit rocky but Ms. Blackmore showed leadership, compassion, dedication, and support from Day 1 and has consistently delivered the same. She has taken the lead to align the school resources to address my childs learning needs from a place of deep understanding of what components need to be in place for her to experience success in the school environment. My daughter has not only adapted to school but is learnig at a pace that was not expected by experts before school started. I attribute this to not only Ms. Blackmore’s mastery of her expertise areas but a true dedication and caring attitude that comes from within her personality. We are also blessed with an amazing class teacher and she and Whitney work together seamlessly. Also, I am aware that Ms Blackmore started and leads the highly popular school track team so I know she is doing so much more for the school community that I will ever know. Whitney is an inspiration not only as a teacher but to any professional who desires to be the best of the best in their field.
Malisa Davis on February 13, 2013 at 9:19 pm said: Congratulations, Whitney! You are a special teacher who always has a smile to share. Thank you for your willingness to value every child at Briarlake!
Suzanne Garwood on December 18, 2012 at 2:04 pm said: Whitney is a wonderful teacher and aunt. She adores my two children, who both have Down syndrome an attribute that she brings to the kids she teaches. She is tirelessly devoted to the cause of helping children with special needs, and recently participated in a 100-mile bike ride to raise money for Best Buddies. Whitney is a wonderful teacher, aunt and mom and is extremely deserving of this honor!
jessica mcconnell on December 18, 2012 at 3:17 pm said: Whitney goes above and beyond with even the most challenging students. She spends enormous amounts of time and energy leading the special education team, mentoring fellow teachers, developing her professional knowledge, engaging her students inside and outside of the classroom and sharing her never ending energy with those around her. Whitney embodies the teacher and person I strive to be. She is, without a doubt, a life changer!!
Dale McDowell on December 18, 2012 at 7:11 pm said: Whitney is one of the kindest people I know. That, coupled with your adventurous spirit, the Team-in-Training events and the skydiving, set an example for youngsters to be active and live a life of adventure.
Jennifer Austin on December 18, 2012 at 9:08 pm said: I have had the pleasure of working closely with Whitney for the past 3 years. Whitney cares deeply for each of her students and takes an active interest in their learning and development. She is genuinely excited with each and every gain that they make. Whitney is a creative thinker and consistently tries new ways to help her students achieve their goals. She is fun, energetic, and positive and a breath of fresh air as an educator and as a colleague.
Mary Saghafi on December 18, 2012 at 9:29 pm said: It is a joy and honor to work with Whitney each day. She is a life changer-and truly deserving of this honor. Day in, and day out, Whitney continuously demonstrates what it means to be an educator in today’s day in age. Whitney’s tireless stamina to better herself contagiously inspires others to raise their own expectations. It is an honor to teach with her – as a friend and as an inspiration to us all. Whether she is ensuring that a student is cutting on the line, or meeting a daily goal – she celebrates their personal achievements as though they had completed a half Ironman, a marathon, or a 100 mile bike ride. She hangs her marathon medals proudly in the classroom and humbly uses these personal triumphs to inspire and bring out the best in those she touches. I also want to say thank you to her for being the best team player! She helps better the whole school with her ability to creatively find solutions, especially going beyond the call of her classroom duties. She always works for the greater good – and especially for what is best for her students. No matter what – you are a life-changer to me. Thank you for your endless support and for making me love teaching again.
Julia Roberts on December 19, 2012 at 6:10 pm said: What can I say about Mrs. Blackmore? Both of my kids have thrived under her care and leadership. We are so lucky to have had her in our lives by teaching and loving our kids. Words cannot express our family’s deep appreciation and gratitude for her.
Kari Cernoch on December 19, 2012 at 7:09 pm said: I honestly do not know where to begin. Whitney is the most caring person I know. I really do not know where I would be with out her in my life. She started out as a co-worker but now is so much more than that. She encouraged me to start running long distances. Since we started running together, we have completed many 1/2 marathons, a marathon and even a half Ironman together. She is the best teammate I could ask for. She unselfishly holds camps at her house for Team in Training, just to help me out. She waits for me when I fall behind in events. Most importantly she picks me up when I am down, and this year I have fallen down a lot. Whitney makes me want to be not just a better teacher but a better person. I don’t think that words can even begin to express how thankful I am for her in my life. She truly deserves this award more than anyone I know.
Amy O'Dell Trocchi on December 20, 2012 at 12:31 am said: Whitney is an amazing woman and teacher. In a time made so challenging for teachers with salary cuts, large class sizes, slashed benefits, and budgets that are so tight that they require more out-of-pocket money than ever, Whitney maintains not only her positive attitude but her strength. She doesn’t just smile her way through the day; she digs in (along with Kari Cernoch above to get everything she can out of these children, inspire them, and serve as an amazing role mode.
Julie Seckman on December 21, 2012 at 3:58 pm said: When I saw that Whitney had been nominated I said “Yeeeeessssss!” Her spirit, positive attitude, smile, helpfulness and numerous wonderful attributes add up to one incredible teacher. Last year she gave the teacher of the year back to school “inspiration” message during our pre-planning teachers meeting. She told the story of a young girl who faced many challenges and how her teachers made all the difference in her life. I was waiting for her to say at the end that it was the story of someone famous and we would go “wow”. Instead it was her story. Instead of “wow” I felt tears. To realize how much impact a teacher can have on a student and then watch that student turn around and have such an enormous impact on others was truly inspirational. That same year I had a student in my class who was facing many of the challenges Whitney described. When I was tempted to become frustrated or want to give up I thought of Whitney’s words and living testimony. It made me want to do all I could for this student and others. Thank you Whitney. You ARE a life-changer!!
Lois on December 22, 2012 at 8:06 pm said: You are amazing Whitney. You inspire me and so many more.
Dale Duncan on January 5, 2013 at 2:35 pm said: I teach choral music to Ms. Blackmore’s daughter. Annually, we produce a musical revue at my school. Ms. Blackmore has a demanding full-time teaching job of her own and she managed to be a key parent volunteer for our production. She showed up on Saturday morning’s and helped sew numerous costumes. In addition, she made sure her daughter, who was a dancer in the show, made it on time to every single early morning dance rehearsal from November until
May! What a wonderful example to her child of how important it is to give back.
Crystal Rasa on January 9, 2013 at 12:29 pm said: I can’t think of a more deserving person! She is an amazing educator – more than a teacher to my sweet girls who have very different needs.
Robin Kirkpatrick on January 9, 2013 at 12:54 pm said: I am so thankful that my daughter has Ms.Blackmore as her teacher! She has been tireless in her efforts to support and encourage her to grow and develop all of her skills and abilities and is so proud to keep us informed as parents about her progress and successes! She always has a ready smile and a positive outlook that I know the kids benefit from being around. She regularly goes above and beyond to support and encourage students and makes me a parent feel enormous gratitude and confidence in the education my daughter is getting. I cannot think of a more deserving candiate than Whitney Blackmore!!
Jenny Flanagan on January 9, 2013 at 5:52 pm said: Mrs. Whitney Blackmore has already been our “life-changer”! Her exceptional knowledge, empathy, and effectiveness have been integral in changing my special-needs son’s life. Words can not express our appreciation!
Angela Pilcher on January 9, 2013 at 7:57 pm said: Congratulations Whitney! A well deserved nomination! I have observed so much that is compelling to justify you as a Life Changer! From staying up late researching new and innovative ways to teach long division to your students, to co-leading the kids track club, to fundraising for a cause, to modeling health and fitness, to offering kids art and cooking camps that my daughter LOVES to attend, to actively participating in school events and committees while wearing both a teacher and a parent hat (and a very genuine smile)! You are amazing! It is a pleasure for this family to know and be inspired by you!
Sonya Williams-Pratt on January 9, 2013 at 10:17 pm said: Whitney truly is an inspiration to all that know her. An awesome teacher, mother and friend!
Brad Schorer on January 9, 2013 at 11:15 pm said: Whitney is an amazing woman who is able to leave a smile and create inspiration to all those around her. By helping organizations like Team in Training to help raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, she not only helped thousands who are fighting these diseases but also inspire her teammates. Her smile, energy, and good nature made everyone forget the pain of their workouts. Whitney brings the best out of everyone!
Ginger Maxwell on January 10, 2013 at 12:19 am said: Whitney is able to be sweet and ever so determined at the same time. My daughter and I( both of us at one time Special Education teachers), kept up with her goal of learning to swim laps to participate in one of her “for some wonderful cause” events. She took on that challenge and succeeded, just as she asks her students to take on difficult challenges and try to succeed.Get the feeling she has already been a “Life Changer” to many of her students.
Jeff Lyon on January 10, 2013 at 7:21 am said: I know Whitney from her work with Team in Training which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She always is always positive and upbeat. Between her teaching and her LLS volunteering, her days are filled with doing good things for others. She is an exceptional, giving and caring person. She changes lives every day.
shannon vogt on January 10, 2013 at 10:05 am said: Whitney has taught my son at Briarlake Elementary School. She is always encouraging and positive about his good traits. She asks for ideas about how to help him, and provides me and my husband with ideas of how to help my son learn. She is always smiling and full of energy. I really appreciate her influence at our school and in my child’s life.
Karina Skelton on January 10, 2013 at 12:37 pm said: Whitney is the epitome of helpfulness, positivity and professionalism.
In her many roles as parent PTA co-president, track club coach, third grade and special education teacher,she has been a “life changer” to many children and truly deserves this award.
Heather Leahy on January 10, 2013 at 1:04 pm said: Whitney Blackmore is one of the brightest spirits at Briarlake (and there are many!). Her positive attitude is contagious. In school and out, she is inspiring to parents and a great role model for our children.
Linda Coil on January 10, 2013 at 9:45 pm said: I was so excited to see Whitney nominated for Life Changer of the Year! She is an amazing teacher and person who has such a positive attitude on her work and life. Her dedication to the students at Briarlake ES is inspiring and my daughter, Natalie, loved her cooking and craft camp so much. Whitney is definitely the perfect candidate to win this award.
Jennifer Crooker on January 11, 2013 at 4:30 pm said: A truly well-deserved nomination! As a Briarlake parent, I have seen Whitney bring such enthusiasm and knowledge to her profession. My daughter is excited by any opportunity to work with her. Whitney told me once that she remembers not enjoying language arts as a student, and it is her goal to prevent that feeling in students. She is innovative, positive, and kind, while stretching students to work to the level she knows they can. To have Whitney at Briarlake, in the elementary years when students are forming their attitudes about education, is a gift.
Deb Wise on January 12, 2013 at 5:34 pm said: I have had the pleasure of working with Whiteny for several years. She is ALWAYS willing to go above and beyond her duties to support other teachers, and she ALWAYS has a kind word and smile to share.
In addition to her regular duties at Briarlake (which keep her running, no doubt), Whitney helped start a track club. Whitney runs and chats with the students as they do their laps. Our children are developing a life-long love of fitness, something I completely missed out on when I was a child. Thanks for being an inspiration, Whit, and best of luck!
Ellen Kersh on January 14, 2013 at 8:42 am said: We love Ms. Blackmore! She is such an encourager. I am grateful how she always has something positive to say to my child. My daughter is not very self confident (yet?); it is wonderful for her that Ms. Blackmore says something nice to her often, and encourages her to try something new, and to trust in her own abilities.
Julie Friedman on January 15, 2013 at 11:31 pm said: Whitney Blackmore for Life Changer of the Year? It’s a no-brainer. Read the above comments. How can I add to them? My son has been fortunate to have her in his school life for several years. She has encouraged him at his hardest times and made sure to brag at his brightest. Her patience, caring, intelligence, and AMAZING teaching skills are the reasons for his success, not only academically but emotionally. Given every obstacle teachers have had to overcome lately it is clear teaching is not just a vocation, but a passion for her. Go, Whitney Blackmore! You Rock!
marci alt on January 16, 2013 at 9:11 am said: Whitney is so deserving of this award she is one strong teacher that always seems to go the extra mile. She has the patience of a saint and in my book is always the life changer of the year. I am grateful to have her as a neighbor and one of my favorite Briarlake teachers….
Mimi crane on January 16, 2013 at 6:10 pm said: Mrs. Blackmore is a great asset to briarlake elementary. My son loves reading with her! She is always so energetic and friendly! She even makes something as simple as calling car line names fun. Lol. Thanks for all your hard work and dedication to our students and school!
Amy Quick on January 17, 2013 at 6:41 pm said: Whitney is one of those people that you are just happy to see at the school and especially if she is one of the teachers in your child’s class. She goes above and beyond the necessary for her kids and is happy to do so. I have 3 daughters and only one of them is a student at Briarlake. My younger two are not even there yet, but Mrs. Blackmore is already their favorite teacher! She just has that kind of effect on the kids. Briarlake and Dekalb are so fortunate to have Whitney as a teacher and she is so deserving of this nomination!!
Melissa Beaupierre on January 22, 2013 at 9:13 pm said: Briarlake is so fortunate to have Mrs Blackmore as a teacher. Before she started teaching at BES I knew her as a committed PTA President who I was so pleased to have helping and leading our school. My oldest had Mrs Blackmore when she first started teaching at Briarlake – honestly unsure at first how this parent, PTA Pres would be as my child’s teacher it took no time at all to see how lucky we were to have our child in her class -that was 5 years ago! Mrs Blackmore is one of the many reasons that I will likely cry like a baby when my youngest moves on from Briarlake this May.
Irenea Seufert on January 24, 2013 at 11:38 am said: Energy – that is the first word that comes to mind when I think of Mrs. Blackmore. I first got to know her before her teaching role at Briarlake, when she worked tirelessly as PTA president and on many fundraising efforts at the school (Sally Foster, raffle tickets to Italy, she did it all). Her hard work on the PTA benefitted the school in so many ways. She now teaches my 4th grader and I am thrilled to have her energy and talents in the classroom! How lucky we are to have such a gifted and generous person cross the paths of our children each day.
Ashley Johnston on January 24, 2013 at 8:36 pm said: I met Whitney through the Team in Training organization which helps to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She not only unselfishly raised money to help millions with cancer, she became a huge inspritation and ray of light to her teammates. Whitney, has become very special to me and I know I can always count on her if I need to see a smiling face, a cheery outlook, help with anything or even to push through a hard training session together. Whitney is one of the greatest, most inspiring people that I’ve ever met! She’s more than deserving of this award!
Holly Brass on January 24, 2013 at 9:23 pm said: Mrs. Blackmore is an absolutely amazing teacher and an incredible inspiration. I find myself at a loss for words when I try to sum up why I know this in my soul and how to convey those feelings to others. Her devotion to ALL of her students is so easy to see in the love and care they reflect right back on her. The comraderie she has with her fellow staff members also serves as proof that to know Whitney is to be included in a very special circle of honesty, compassion, and trust. As a parent who has worked closely with Whitney, I also feel this same joy and enthusiasm whenever I am with her. In her professional life, in her personal life, and the many layers in between, Whitney is an inspiration. There is no hurdle too high to leap for her students, no finish line too far to run for those she cares about, and no amount of giving too large to aid in the fight for those who need help. No doubt about it – Whitney is a life-changer!
Fidie Ramli on January 24, 2013 at 10:16 pm said: I had the pleasure of knowing Whitney through Team In Training, the fundraising component of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society where we trained together for the Half Ironman. She is always upbeat, always positive in her outlook and she has this warm, maternal spirit about her that just pulls people in. She is very committed to the training and to the fundraising process itself and I can absolutely see how great of a teacher she is even without seeing her in the classroom. Whitney is respectful of others, and she is the type that sees the glass at always half full. The easiest way to tell if you are loved is by the number of friends that would go the extra distance for you, and Whitney does not have a shortage of that. I’m glad that our paths crossed.
Erica Garwood on January 25, 2013 at 4:56 pm said: Whitney is an amazing woman. I’ve had the opportunity to watch her grow and mature and I am so proud of her. Whitney has a heart of gold with a generous spirit. She is a devoted wife, Mother, sister and friend. It is my pleasure to have her in my life. Can’t wait to see what’s next. Aint no mountain high enough………………..
Nancy Chalkley on January 25, 2013 at 5:08 pm said: Whitney is an incredible person to coteach with. Not only have our students benefited from her endless enthusiasm for teaching, but I have well as a second year teacher. She is always willing to go above and beyond all expectations to help our students reach their highest potential. I feel very fortunate to have Whitney in my life as a colleague and friend. I truly admire all that she does for those around her with selfless generosity. She is a true life changer!
John Haynie on January 31, 2013 at 11:08 am said: Whitney goes far beyond the extra mile on a daily basis. She is the special ed teacher for my daughter who just started school this year. The transition was a bit rocky but Ms. Blackmore showed leadership, compassion, dedication, and support from Day 1 and has consistently delivered the same. She has taken the lead to align the school resources to address my childs learning needs from a place of deep understanding of what components need to be in place for her to experience success in the school environment. My daughter has not only adapted to school but is learnig at a pace that was not expected by experts before school started. I attribute this to not only Ms. Blackmore’s mastery of her expertise areas but a true dedication and caring attitude that comes from within her personality. We are also blessed with an amazing class teacher and she and Whitney work together seamlessly. Also, I am aware that Ms Blackmore started and leads the highly popular school track team so I know she is doing so much more for the school community that I will ever know. Whitney is an inspiration not only as a teacher but to any professional who desires to be the best of the best in their field.
Malisa Davis on February 13, 2013 at 9:19 pm said: Congratulations, Whitney! You are a special teacher who always has a smile to share. Thank you for your willingness to value every child at Briarlake!