Newtown School Counselor Nominated For National Education Award

NEWTOWN, CT — A counselor at Newtown's Head O'Meadow Elementary School has been nominated as a LifeChanger of the Year "for being the light in a dark storm for many kids," according to insurance company National Life Group.

Lisa Kilcourse, who helps K-4 students with their social-emotional needs, was nominated for the award by her colleague, Virginia DeLong.

Kilcourse is one of four Connecticut educators who were nominated for the award.

"Ms. Kilcourse truly is an amazing, dedicated educator who is an enormous asset to the profession," DeLong said in a statement. "I'm sure you could ask anyone she's worked with, including her students, and they'd tell you the same. She's a LifeChanger in my book."

In addition to her school counseling duties, Kilcourse also volunteers for the CT School Counselor Association, where she serves as a Director on the Board of Directors, and is also the public relations chair and a member of the conference committee.

Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, 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.

Hundreds of educators from 50 states are nominated to win one of the following prizes:

• (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 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) Capstone Award Winner - This award is given to a nominee retiring at the end of the 2020-21 school year. The winner will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school or district.
• (1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. For 2021-22, the Spotlight Award will be given to a school nurse. 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 2022, according to the organization. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees.

To be considered for an award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Make a positive impact in 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